Choosing the right equipment is important in baseball and softball.

From the right glove that fits on the correct hand, to the right bat that is not too big or heavy for you, equipment helps you to play that game well. The same is true in the “game of life” as a Christian. We need the right equipment.

After reading the Bible and living a life of prayer, and realizing that God has made us to do great things for Him in this life, we continue to prepare to be used by Him by using what He has given to us to help impact others. It’s kind of like God gives us equipment to serve Him. As a Christian, this equipment could be two things:

I PETER 3:15

Always be ready to give an answer to anyone who asks you about the hope you have. Be ready to give the reason for it. But do it gently and with respect.

Our testimony. Our testimony is simply the story of how God changed our lives. We can talk about how we came to know Jesus as our Savior, or how God helped to change our behavior andour lives. 

However, we choose to share our story, God can use it to impact someone else.

ROMANS 12:1-2

Brothers and sisters, God has shown you his mercy. So I am asking you to offer up your bodies to him while you are still alive. Your bodies are a holy sacrifice that is pleasing to God. When you offer your bodies to God, you are worshiping him in the right way. Don’t live the way this world lives. Let your way of thinking be completely changed. Then you will be able to test what God wants for you. And you will agree that what he wants is right. His plan is good and pleasing and perfect.

Our sacrifice. Sacrificing our lives for Jesus simply means that we have decided to no longer live for ourselves, but to instead live for Him. When we do this on a daily basis, we get to know what God wants us to do with our lives. This can help us live for Him even more!

When we use these pieces of “equipment” in the game of life, we will be well prepared to impact others so that they can come to know Jesus as well.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. What is a testimony and why is it important?

2. What does it mean to sacrifice for Jesus and why is that important?

3. What have you personally sacrificed for Jesus and why?