Lessons learned from the NBA playoffs

Normally I don’t follow the NBA during the regular season and even during the playoffs, I don’t normally watch except when the Lakers are playing. However, I’ve been intrigued this year to watch and observe the “magic” of teamwork. Observing how the Lakers, Miami, and Spurs have all had their ups and downs during this season, I began to wonder. Why is it that even the best teams struggle at times? Not only do the best teams struggle but even the “superstars” go through a slump.

The same is true in ministry. We sometimes expect our teams to be at the top of their game each and every day. Reality is that sometimes, our team is just not there. We wonder why it is that sometimes the team doesn’t seem focused or ready but that is the reality. Understanding that this is reality because it helps us to understand what to do when that “superstar” is going through that slow start. This is the time to lean on someone else. Someone else will step up. As a leader it’s important to recognize these moment in order to put the “game” on your “Kobe Bryant”. Put the pressure on him to carry your team. If he’s the one struggling, then find someone else to lean on. There will always be someone else. Just because your team member is struggling doesn’t mean that he/she doesn’t get it or that all is over. If we keep focused, we can and will get to the destination that God has asked us to reach. Remember, it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. And keep in mind that even though you can’t win every game, the battle is already won.

Pastor Ephrain Gaxiola