Faith on the Frontstretch: Uncertainty in the Off-Season

Credit: Jonathan Ferry/Getty Images

 “...and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1b

Change and uncertainty mark the off-season for a number of NASCAR drivers and crew members. One team closes down. Another has a doubtful future. Some drivers move to different teams, while others don’t know if they have rides for next year.

No one likes uncertainty, whether in a racing career or any other facet of life. But unfortunately, we all experience times of limbo. Whether it is a job loss or health crisis or a wayward teenage child, the time we spend waiting to see how things work out is no fun. Suspense might enhance the plot in movies, but in real life, unresolved or unknown situations leave us feeling edgy and anxious.

Races are full of uncertainty, too. A simple thing like a rain shower can leave everyone hanging during a red flag, wondering if the race will restart or not. But on Lap 109 of the last Chase race at Homestead-Miami, the rainfall contributed something beautiful to the event – a rainbow!

For me, seeing a rainbow always brings a sense of childlike wonder and the realization that God is near. Do you know the significance of the rainbow? In Genesis 9, Noah and his family came out of the ark after the great flood. God made a rainbow in the clouds as a sign of His promise never to allow a flood to destroy all life on earth again. Since biblical times, rainbows have appeared in the sky as a colorful reminder God’s promise.

When the rainbow arched above the track during the Ford 400, it reminded me that God is always the same. He is the one constant in life, amidst the waiting and decisions and doubts. In a world where a guy can win a championship and still lose his seat on the pit box, it’s reassuring to know God is loyal and steadfast. He will never leave you.

This off-season, if there is uncertainty in your life, take heart. No matter how bewildered or discouraged you feel, God is watching over you. Take comfort in this promise:

... God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid ... ~ Hebrews 13:5b-6b
----------------------------

Want to read more racing devotions? When you donate $25 or more to Skirts and Scuffs, we’ll send you a complimentary copy of Beth’s book, Race Fans’ Devotions to Go. See you on the frontstretch!

Beth Bence Reinke is the author of Race Fans’ Devotions to Go, a devotional book geared toward female racing fans. Her column for Skirts and Scuffs explores the role of faith in motorsports. To read more of Beth’s posts, click on her name or “Faith on the Frontstretch” on the Skirts and Scuffs home page. Feel free to leave a comment on this post or reach her via twitter: @bbreinke.