If You Got It, Use It

Read

John 10:9 “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.”

Think

Years ago, during a holiday trip to Columbia, South Carolina with Lisa to visit her family, I stumbled upon a surprising headline in the newspaper: “The Eau Claire Shamrocks basketball team ranked number one in the nation.” It was a big deal for this small school, and the next evening, my father-in-law and I went to see them play. But this wasn't your typical high school basketball game; it was an electrifying event. The players moved like seasoned pros, making plays that left us in awe – slam dunks, steals, and an atmosphere charged with excitement. During it all, the crowd swayed and chanted, “You got it, now use it. You got it, now use it. You got it, now use it,” urging the players to unleash their potential.

That chant resonates beyond the basketball court – it speaks to a deeper truth. We, too, have something profound within our reach: the key to eternal life and abundant living through surrendering to Jesus. He's not just a door; he is the way. Entering through him isn't a halfway commitment; it's a full surrender. When we trust in Jesus, we are saved. It's not a gradual process but a decisive step.

That chant, “You got it, now use it,” is a gentle reminder for us as believers. Some of us have embraced the gift of eternal life but are not fully utilizing it. It's like having the ball but hesitating to take the shot. It's time to step up and make full use of the incredible gift we've been given. Playing ball without taking a shot doesn't fulfill the potential of the game; likewise, living with Jesus but not fully engaging in his purpose leaves us missing out on the richness of life in him.

Apply

The chant "You got it, now use it" reminds us to actively use the spiritual gifts and blessings God has given us. Put your faith into action by serving others in your church. Sign up today to serve on a weekend team.

Pray

Lord, I surrender myself completely to you. You are the door to salvation and abundant life, and I trust in your guidance and provision. Help me to walk in faith, knowing that you are the way, the truth, and the life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.