The On-Deck Circle:
From a young age in baseball, players are taught that the on-deck circle has a purpose. It is where a batter gets their timing, rhythm, and focus aligned, giving themselves the best opportunity to succeed at the plate. After all, the old adage reminds us that hitting is all about timing, and pitching is about disrupting that timing.
As Christians, we can apply this principle to our daily lives as well. As we go about our daily tasks—whether routine or mundane—the enemy seeks to disrupt, distract, and divert our gaze away from Jesus. So how do we counteract that? Where is the “on-deck circle” for everyday life?
Mark 1:35 teaches us that Jesus rose early in the morning, before sunrise, went to a solitary place, and prayed.
Psalm 5:3 teaches us to bring our requests before God in the morning with an attitude of expectancy, trusting that He hears us and is at work.
Daniel 6:10 reminds us that giving thanks to God throughout the day helps us process our anxieties and find peace in His presence.
Some people prioritize quiet time in the morning with a cup of coffee to prepare their minds for the day. Others may prefer the gym or exercise to awaken their bodies and get moving. For Christians, however, the on-deck circle may simply be a consistent routine of prayer.
Spending time alone with God keeps us connected to Him, helps our spirits stay in step with His, establishes a godly rhythm for the day, and aligns our focus on what truly matters—Jesus Christ.
Live It
This week, make it a goal to incorporate a few minutes of prayer into your morning routine. Throughout the day and again in the evening, take time to thank the Lord and lay your anxieties at His feet. Seek to grow closer to your Lord and Savior in ways that may be outside your normal routine. Allow your spiritual preparation to become just as important as your mental and physical preparation.
Let’s Pray
Dear Heavenly Father,
We are grateful that You are a God who listens and understands. Thank You for inviting us into Your presence, where we can repent, find mercy, and lay our fears and anxieties at Your feet. Help us to stay in tune with Your Spirit in our daily routines. Guard us from distraction and disruption and draw us ever closer to You as we seek to walk faithfully each day.
In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings In Christ,
The Team at Bibles and Baseball