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The Importance of Boxing Out  

During the final college basketball games of the season, we make mental notes of  teams to pick for our brackets, with rebounding an area of strength to place a premium. The rebounding margin stat indicates how much better a team grabs the boards and boxes out compared to their opponents.

Some of the top teams that led in this statistical category throughout the 2017-2018 season are UNC, Michigan State, Wichita State, Duke, Gonzaga, and Cincinnati. When you look at the AP College Basketball Top 25 rankings as well, these teams have been right near the top too.

Rebounding isn’t just about size or strength but involves effort, timing, and boxing out. Boxing out requires the proper positioning of getting in front of the opponent to prevent him from grabbing the ball.

As we think about this, a comparison can be made to our desire for “grabbing” blessings and opportunities in our lives. In order to do so, we need to put effort into “boxing out” against selfishness, laziness, and fear.

If we want to enjoy God for who He is and all He offers us through Jesus, we also need to box out against opponents like negativity, bitterness, and complacency. If we don’t, we are going to miss the fullness of God’s goodness.

Our lives can change in a positive way if we humbly pray these words written in Psalm 119:57-60 (NLT): “Lord, You are mine! I promise to obey Your words! With all my heart I want Your blessings. Be merciful as You promised. I pondered the direction of my life, and I turned to follow Your laws. I will hurry, without delay, to obey Your commands.”

As we claim these powerful verses and start receiving the favor, benefits, and open doors God provides, let’s remember to focus on the One who blesses and not just the blessings.

Rebounds in basketball can be a reminder to position ourselves for blessings from God. With effort and trust in His proper timing, let’s box out attitudes, mindsets, and distractions that try to push us away from Him.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!  

PRAYER: “Lord, You are mine! I promise to obey Your words! With all my heart I want Your blessings. Be merciful as You promised. I pondered the direction of my life, and I turned to follow Your laws. I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands.” In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.