Base Running: Taking Calculated Risks

A Softball Devotional

A softball player on base watches for opportunities. If the pitcher isn't paying attention, the runner might steal a base. If there's a wild pitch, they might advance. If a teammate gets a hit, they sprint to the next base. Base running isn't just about waiting for someone to hit you home – it's about actively moving forward, taking calculated risks, reading the game.

But here's what separates good base runners from poor ones: good runners take calculated risks. They read the pitcher. They know which bases are stealable. They understand when to risk being thrown out and when to hold. Poor runners either run recklessly (getting thrown out) or are too cautious (never advancing).

Spiritually, following Jesus requires the same balance.

Some Christians are so afraid of risk that they never advance. They wait for perfect safety before making moves. But faith isn't about perfect safety – it's about calculated risk based on trust in God. Abraham left his home (risk). The disciples left their jobs (risk). Paul traveled to unreached cities (risk). They read the situation, trusted God, and advanced.

Proverbs 14:12 says: "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."

Some paths are dead ends. Discern which risks to take.

Proverbs 27:12 says: "The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty."

Calculated risks, not reckless ones.

Joshua 1:8-9 says: "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do all that is written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Be strong and courageous. Take risks. God is with you.

1 Peter 5:8-9 says: "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith."

Alert and sober minded. Read the situation. Resist wisely.

Proverbs 22:3 says: "The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty."

Prudent people read ahead and adjust.

Tomorrow's Practice: This week, identify one area where God might be calling you to take a calculated risk – to advance spiritually, to step out in faith, to move forward even though it feels risky. Read the situation. Make sure it aligns with God's calling. Then take the risk. Don't wait for perfect safety. Don't advance recklessly either. Take calculated risks based on trust in God.

Reflection Question: Are you taking calculated spiritual risks based on trust in God, or are you either playing it too safe or being recklessly impulsive?