Even When It Hurts - June 6, 2010

Daily Reading

Proverbs 10-12

Daily Verse

The man of integrity walks securely.

Proverbs 10:9

Daily Thought

One more John Wooden story.

It is 1948. John Wooden is from the Midwest, likes the Midwest, and wants to stay in the Midwest. And he will if the University of Minnesota calls him before the deadline.

They didn't. So, John Wooden agreed to go west to Westwood. The UCLA Bruins. A team that had had three winning seasons in the previous 17 years.

Then Minnesota called. Something about a snowstorm knocking out communication. They had tried to call before the deadline. Good honest excuse. It snows a lot in the Midwest. The job is yours. Can you come?

But John Wooden had given his word to UCLA, a team that finished in last place that year.

LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?

Who may live on your holy hill?

He who keeps his oath

even when it hurts.

--Psalm 15:1, 4

For the next 27 years, UCLA did not have a losing season. The final twelve seasons under Wooden, UCLA collected 10 NCAA Championships.

How? Coaching, discipline, determination, talent.

But it began with integrity. A man kept his word.

To God's Glory,

Dave Price

Daily Prayer

Creator, by Your Word all things came into existence. You speak and it happens. Your Son is Your Word to this world. When we see "The Word," Jesus, we see You, because You are One: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

God, may our word be as true. May we speak without duplicity. May we always keep our word. You said we must walk in Your Word. Your Word is truth. If we are to be like You, God, then our word must be truth, as well.

Amen