TUF: Eye of the Tiger

By Pastor Christian in Thinking About Sunday on 11/29/09

This blog is about the second message in the Ultimate Fighter series, “The Eye of the Tiger.” For more information about The Ultimate Fighter or to listen to messages, watch videos, and read other blogs visit our Ultimate Fighter Page by clicking here.
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This morning Brandon commenced our exploration of the life of David by beginning before he was king, in Brandon’s careful words, “as he was becoming a king” in 1 Samuel 16.

From my standpoint and from most of the people I have talked to, it was this insight into his “becoming” that really struck a cord. Brandon thoughtfully made the point that David did not just happen upon being the king one day – like Saul (who was surprised while searching for Donkeys). Instead, he was chosen young and then was seemingly developed into a capable sovereign. We can imagine that along the way he must have submitted himself to all kinds of intentional shaping, hardship and training. Brandon imagined long nights with Samuel preparing for his eventual opportunity reading books and sorting forks. Add to this, an uncommon willingness to be developed in all kinds of gifts for which he could not possibly foresee a use (e.g. harp playing). . .

. . .And, when God opened an unexpected opportunity for David to advance, he was ready to seize it!  Because he was faithful in the daily routine and intentional about a future plan.

There is so much that could be gleaned from this that this blog hardly allows for the time and space, but I’d still like to add one more example. In the course of being pastors, Brandon and I have counseled a few people who have decided to become police. And one of the things we learned early on from the police interviewers who contacted us, was that they did not appreciate people just “deciding to become police” without ever having shown the commitment to BECOME ONE. Most police officers have spent years becoming police. Brandon referenced his own preparation for his opportunity on Sunday. I would add that it has taken me 15-years to get this dream job.

Becoming something is more often a path than a destination. Brandon noted that the decisions you are making today will shape your future in ways you cannot imagine. Gifts or opportunities that you ignore or despise now could have been your “harp opportunity” later. Choices that you make now, people you help or hurt now, all those things will shape your future and dictate your readiness to SEIZE YOUR own God opportunity.

So, I ask thoughtfully, respectfully, but with a little challenge, WHAT ARE YOU BECOMING?

Christian

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