Under Pressure - Rory Fallon


Quote

“No pressure, no diamonds”
- Thomas Carlyle


Real Life

Having only qualified for the FIFA World Cup once before in its history, the New Zealand men’s football team (the All Whites), faced once last obstacle. Beat Bahrain in Wellington and gain entry to the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

With the weight of the nation’s hopes on their shoulders, Centre-Forward, Rory Fallon, reflected on the night saying, “It was the first time I had felt real pressure in a football game.”  Just before half time, Rory managed to rise above the Bahrain defence and head the ball from a corner kick into the back of the Bahrain net, putting the All Whites ahead in this historic match. While in front, the New Zealand team now faced a gruelling battle to keep Bahrain out of the game, who were desperate to get a goal back. This included a penalty being awarded at the beginning of the second half against the All Whites, which was remarkably saved by goalkeeper Mark Paston. As the game played on, a full stadium and thousands at home watched nervously. Speaking about the last few minutes of the game, Rory described them as the “worst 5 minutes of my career”.  Regardless, the All Whites withstood the pressure, kept their thin lead and after 93 minutes came out victorious. After a 27 year wait, they had qualified again for the World Cup in South Africa.

Our lives at times can feel like we are facing pressure from a relentless opposition. Circumstance, poor decision making or sometimes just things completely out of our control, can cause us pain, stress and deep challenge. Yet even in the midst of these things, God is working on us and in us. The bible says that it is when we face times of pressure and testing, that our character and faith are being strengthened and refined (Romans 5:3-4, 1 Peter 1:6-7). It promises that that if we can remain faithful to God during trials, we will ultimately receive the greatest goal there is, the crown of life (James 1:12).

In our own seasons of difficulty, remember, God has promised us His strength, His comfort and His presence to help and guide us. Psalm 30:5 says “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning."


Bible Verse

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12


Prayer

Thank you Lord, no matter what I face, you are faithful and trustworthy and will help me walk through my trails and times of trouble. Help me to lean into you, allow you to work on me and overcome the obstacles I face.


 

Author: Wes Smith   |   Content Editor: Phil Pawley

 

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