Missing Signs

As a third base coach, one of your responsibilities is to give the signs to the batter (and those on base if applicable). Some coaches use the number system, some use the hand signals, and some use a combination of the macarena and disco!

How frustrating is it when your player misses the bunt sign, causing the sacrifice to turn into a caught stealing or the baserunner caught in a rundown, thereby eliminating a potential run or a big inning?

Or how about this – Bases loaded, 3-0 count, and the batter misses the take sign, popping up to the infield on what would have been ball four….ugh!

Disappointment sets in for the third base coach and most likely others who knew that signs were missed.

Those are two game situations of many that frustrate us as leaders/coaches – but it is how we react and teach from that moment that matters. Can we tell our players they messed up and cost us a chance to take the lead or cut the deficit? Sure – but do it in such a way that they learn from it and do not feel any less worthy than they did before that at-bat. Most likely, the players need to be more alert. And even though they probably already know this, remind them of it anyway. What does not need to happen is to carry it over to the next at-bat/game – but learn from it!

Now on a much larger scale think about how God feels when we miss His signs, signs of Him answering our prayer – whether it is a Yes or a No! He does not give up on us – He still loves us, cares for us, and does not belittle us.

From – ibelieve.com Truths to Remember –

Thinking God is disappointed implies that we did something to surprise him. But God is omniscient, and he knows what we’re going to say or do before we even think it. He doesn’t just see the person you are now. He sees the person you are becoming, with the help of his Spirit working in you. He sees the masterpiece he created to perform works we can’t even imagine yet.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV

No matter where you are today or what burden you’re carrying, remember God sees you. When he looks at you, it isn’t with disdain or disappointment over the things you’ve done. He sees you with a perfect and holy love we can’t begin to imagine or understand. His work in you isn’t finished yet. He wants to mold you into a beautiful reflection of his son, Jesus, but you must keep coming to him.

God will continue working with us on the things in our hearts we are praying about. When signs are given in a dream, a scripture or from another Christ follower, etc., we must be alert and follow the direction given. If you are praying about a job or finances and a new job offer comes along, be prepared to say Yes or No based on what you feel God is saying to you. If you are praying about what school to go to – base your decision on your prayers and the input of others who have been praying along with you.

As I have stated before, we will not always agree, and I am not a biblical scholar. I like to write and get my thoughts on paper/screen to share something I feel God is telling me to do. I relate MANY things to softball, and if I can help someone along the way, to God be the glory!