Who's on First: Living Life with God at the Plate

Are you familiar with Abbott and Costello’s Who's on First, What's on Second, and I Don't Know's on Third baseball skit? What a classic! I’m grinning just thinking about how those two got so confused and frustrated trying to ask each other simple questions!

It reminds me of when I played ball. Pitchers were uncomfortable pitching to a lefty like me. Wild throws undoubtedly kept me on my toes, but it irritated me that I was often walked to first base.

In life, events come our way that are equally confusing and frustrating—if not more. Most of the time, the balls thrown in life are easy to hit. But what about the ones that catch you by surprise and leave you face down in the dirt?

Spiritually speaking, we need to know Who’s on first, What’s on second, and I Don’t Know’s on third.

God should be on first and be our Designated Hitter—taking the lead in all we do and say. Since I don’t have an immediate family, my lineup looks like this: God’s on first, church on second, and my business on third. Of course, lineups will vary for each individual. Whatever your focus or passion is, first and second can run neck and neck. But spiritual maturity will keep Who and What on the correct base.

I once heard a pastor say, “What are you going to magnify—God or the problem? The words you speak will do one or the other.”

When a crisis strikes, human nature wants us to focus more on the problem than on Who’s on first. Dealing with an emergency may take immediate priority, but it should never replace Who’s on first.

When dilemmas come my way, I quote God’s promises such as:

• My God is in control.

• My God is bigger than any problem.

• I lay all my concerns at His feet.

• If He is for me, who can be against me?

• Jehovah Jireh—the God who provides.

• All my needs will be met.

• I am an heir of the One True God.

WOOOOO!!

This is where Bible reading pays off. I often say: In order to stand on the Word, you’ve got to know the Word. His Word is our bat for what assails us.

Spiritual wisdom tells us that when facing a trial, need, or difficulty, the promises of God should become a Rhema to us—a Spiritual weapon complete with mitt, mask, chest protector, and leg guards. Receive God's spoken words (Rhema) and stand firm upon His promises with boldness.

The advantage of knowing with confidence Who’s on first before adversity strikes makes the victory all the more pleasing to our Heavenly Father.

So during your praise and prayer time, hit a home run—by reminding God Who’s on your first base. He would love to hear it.

Scripture references:

Genesis 22:14, Psalm 71:8, Psalm 103:19, Matthew 6:33, Romans 8:17, 31, Ephesians 6:10-20, Philippians 4:19, Hebrews 10:16, 1 Peter 5:7, 2 Peter 1:2-4, 1 John 3:22, Revelation 19:6