118 Shoot
Howard came to watch his son Terry wrestle in the state championships. Howard came late to gymnasium, so he had to sit at the very top of the bleachers. The crowd was so raucous and the gym was so noisy that Terry's coach didn't bother doing any coaching during the match, especially since Terry was wearing protective headgear that covered his ears.
During Terry's match, Howard saw that his son's opponent was standing too tall. Howard saw an opportunity for son to take down his opponent. Howard got so excited that he stood up and shouted out "Shoot!" even though the crowd noise drowned him out.
Immediately after Howard's outburst, Terry launched down a takedown attack and surprised his opponent. Terry won the match! The crowd roared in approval.
After the match, Howard embraced Terry and congratulated him on his victory. Howard asked Terry how he knew to shoot in and take down his opponent. Terry paused a moment then smiled at Howard. "I only shot in when I heard your voice."
Terry walked ahead towards the car, while Howard wondered how his son was able to hear his voice in the cacophony of the gym.
The world tries to fill our ears with all sorts of noises, but we must listen for the Holy Spirit. Block out worldly distractions and prepare yourself through prayer and confession of sin to receive the Holy Spirit!
- Recommended reading: 1 Kings 19:11-12, Luke 11:13, Acts 8:15
