Wanted: Boldness

by Mike Bonem

Those who are college football fans will remember the 2007 Fiesta Bowl as one of the most exciting games they have ever seen. The upstart Boise State Broncos came into the game with an undefeated record but as heavy underdogs to perennial powerhouse Oklahoma. After blowing an 18-point lead, Boise State rallied twice from 7-point deficits, ultimately sending the game into overtime and then winning 43-42.

In the post-game commentaries, one recurring theme was Coach Chris Petersen’s play selection during the games final minutes. His choices were unconventional, unexpected, and risky. One final decision captured the tone of the entire game. After Oklahoma scored a touchdown on the first play of overtime and kicked the extra point, Boise State again had their backs to the wall. Facing fourth down with their perfect season on the line, the Broncos resorted to a trick play to score the last gasp touchdown. Coach Petersen then had to make a decision: kick for one point and send the game into a second overtime, or try for a 2-point conversion that would give Boise State the win. He chose the latter, using one more razzle-dazzle play to seal the victory for his team. The word on everyone’s lips as they described Coach Petersen: bold.

The game was notable because this kind of boldness is rarely seen in the high-stakes world of college football. Likewise, “go-for-broke” boldness is a rare commodity in ministry. Yet we are serving in an era when bold leadership is clearly needed. And through the Holy Spirit, we have a source of power and conviction that should give us much greater confidence than Coach Petersen. As Paul instructed Timothy, “God did not give us a Spirit of timidity, but a Spirit of power and love and self-discipline” (2 Tim. 1:7). Where is there evidence of that Spirit in your ministry?

"Thanks for doing this. It’s greatly needed."