UNPACK This...Overcoming TemptationSample

Remaining In The Pocket

Whenever I watch football with my wife (who isn’t a big sports fan), she makes unique observations. Phrases I hear as normal football vernacular stand out to her, so I end up explaining them. One Sunday, she pointed out the word “pocket.”

Wikipedia defines the pocket as “the area in the backfield created on a passing play where the offensive line forms a wall of protection around the quarterback. This allows him adequate time to find an open receiver and to pass the ball.”

Having a strong offensive line that keeps the defenders away and provides enough space to see the field clearly is critical. When a pocket breaks down and the QB is forced to run outside of his protection, he’s more susceptible to a big hit or a possible fumble. He must get rid of the ball quickly because remaining in the pocket too long can cause the defense to cave in on him.

In life, operating with a “strong pocket” that protects our hearts from temptation is extremely important. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Every day we need protection from the defense that attempts to break through and destroy us. We need enough space “in the pocket” to see things clearly. If we stand back there too long without getting rid of the temptation or “throwing the ball,” our indecisiveness causes us to become vulnerable and the defense eventually consumes us.

Sometimes we also buy the lie that leaving the pocket is our best answer, and we try to make a play on our own. James 1:14-15 tells us, “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.”

When we leave the pocket of protection, we’re more susceptible to “big hits” and “fumbles.” Today and every day, let’s guard our hearts, quickly get rid of temptation, and remain in the “pocket” as God protects and guides us to do His will.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I need your pocket of protection for life’s temptations. Help me remain in Your will and not be enticed by my own desires. Please quickly replace any temptations with truth and provide a way out. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

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