This devotion was written by middle school player, Brentley Deacon

Every play starts with me, but none of them are about me.

Squatting behind home plate, I’m the only player on the diamond facing out toward the entire field. The weight of the gear-the mask, the chest protector, the shin guards-isn’t just physical protection. It’s a constant reminder of the weight of leadership. From here, I see what the pitcher can’t see, what the infielders miss, and where the defense needs to align. I am called to command the field, call the pitch, and guard the plate no matter what comes sliding in.

In the Kingdom of God, spiritual leadership looks surprisingly similar. We are called to stand alert, watch the horizon, and guide those around us with courage and strength.

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” -1 Corinthians 16:13

Commanding the field requires earned trust. When a pitcher is struggling and the count is full, my job isn’t to yell from behind the mask; it’s to walk out the mound, look him in the eye, and bring calm to the storm. As leaders on our teams, in our families and communities, people look to us when the pressure mounts. They don’t need panic, they need steady direction rooted in purpose.

“Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.” -1 Peter 5:2-3

To hold the line at home plate, you must absorb the impact. You block the wild pitches in the dirt so nobody advances, and you stand your ground when the game is on the line. True leadership serves first and protects always.