I've always liked hearing the word, "overcomers." It has a way of making me feel like I've accomplished something of strength and importance in this life. Even the meaning of the word uses strong and powerful descriptive words like; conqueror, victorious, and confident. Then there are two more words that tie in with overcomers…gratitude and humility.
We may say, "How can someone be victorious and humble at the same time?" Humility means that the victor is willing to acknowledge a higher being who has helped that one achieve an incredible victory over and above the winner's strength.
The following examples have been indelibly stamped in my memory as the above meaning states. I don't remember the football team who won the championship game several years ago, but all the players gathered on the field after the win behind a white sheet, and each one came up to the microphone to either pray, or in some way, give thanks to God for their mighty win. They also were grateful to family, friends, coaches and fellow players. Now, that's humility and gratitude to the One who makes all that possible. It was quite a moving moment amid joy and tears.
Then there was Tim Tebow, who coined a new word of "tebowing." It means those who kneel in public on one knee to give honor to God before or after the games being played. He would point to the sky and bow his head in humility as he prayed and thanked the Lord especially for a winning game.
Philippians 2: 5, 8, 12, and 13.
These are just a few instances in our sports community where I've seen humble men giving a sign of glory to God over the years. There are many more to come, I hope.
How can we not have an attitude of gratitude for all God has given to us - as a people and as a nation? If you have been overseas, you understand what I'm saying. Of course, we aren't to become prideful as to our blessings, but we can use those blessings in helping others to prosper. And we do those things through missionaries, hospital ships, and workers who help in building homes for the poor. May we never lose our spirit of gratefulness to all God has done for us.
So, what is important? It's that we love God with all our heart, mind, and strength and our neighbors (close and far off) as ourselves. God bless all you overcomers!