Bowling a googley

Do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, . . . but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings.      — 1 Peter 4:12-13

George Bernard Shaw once said, “England and America are two countries separated by a common language.” An example from the world of sports demonstrates his point.

As a lifelong baseball fan, I’m familiar with the term curveball. It’s a ball thrown by the pitcher in such a way that it changes direction, fooling the opponent. In cricket, the strategy is similar but the word is very different. The bowler (pitcher) tries to overcome the batsman by “bowling” a googley” (pitching a curveball).

Though games and cultures differ, the concept of the curveball portrays a reality familiar in any language. Life is full of times when we are unsuspectingly “bowled a googley,” and we find ourselves overwhelmed. In those moments of fear and confusion, it’s comforting to know we have a God who is sufficient for any challenge.

Trials are to be expected (1 Peter 4:12). Yet we may well be shocked by the circumstances facing us. But God is never surprised! He permits our trials, and He can enable us to respond to them in a way that honors Him.

When we suffer, we must “commit [our] souls to Him in doing good,” wrote Peter (v. 19). In God’s strength, we can face life’s most troublesome curveballs.          — Bill Crowder

O God, our help in ages past,

Our hope for years to come,

Our shelter from the stormy blast,

And our eternal home! — Watts

READ: 1 Peter 4:12-19

Nothing surprises God.

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Corinthians 6-9

• Proverbs 10:1-11