UNPACK This: The Madness Of MarchSample

How Did That Happen?

One of the most memorable March Madness moments took place a few years ago when 3-seeded Texas A&M was down 12 points with 33 seconds left in regulation and tied the game with 11-seeded Northern Iowa. Single overtime wasn’t enough and after heading to another, A&M pulled out an incredible 92-88 win.

This type of crazy and surprising finish is why we love March Madness! Northern Iowa was in place to pull off a great upset and head to the Sweet 16, but even though they were playing well and everything was going their way, they ended up collapsing in the closing seconds of regulation.

A&M trapped them on two different in-bounds plays and took the ball away both times. UNI couldn’t handle the pressure from the defense and totally melted down.

If we aren’t careful, a couple of bad decisions in our own lives can cause us to have an epic collapse. Even when we appear to have everything together and feel good about what’s next, a “trap” can quickly make us slip and fall. 

By not staying focused on God and spending time in His Word, we can easily find ourselves in a trap of pride and sin that leaves us asking (like UNI), “How did that happen?” 

The Bible gives us an encouraging reminder in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (MSG) to “Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping.” 

Today, let’s recognize the spiritual fight we’re in and realize it’s not over until the day we go to Heaven. Let’s overcome surprise traps that come our way by being fully equipped with God’s Word…and trusting God for the strength we need to finish well. 

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! 

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know every day is a battle. Please give me Your strength and power to fight well. I know if I take my eyes off of Jesus, I’m prone to fall. Help me not to get prideful, but always be alert and aware of my weaknesses. Thank You for Your grace when I do fall, but help me to remain faithful and obedient. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.