I’m not the biggest football fan in the world. I like it and all, but I don’t watch every game and I’m not glued to the couch in front of a television on Saturdays.

But I saw today where #1 Kansas State and #2 Oregon lost, throwing the BCS into the usual headache-inducing chaos and turmoil. On paper, Kansas State was the clear favorite to beat Baylor, but on the field, Baylor won. That’s why they play the game.

There’s such a life lesson there. On paper, it may look like you have no shot. Your situation may seem so hopeless that it’s almost like you’re the ultimate underdog facing the powerhouse champions. But still the key is to show up.

But if you show up with expectations that God will act, there’s no telling what could happen. I’m not saying if you believe hard enough, $1 million will fall in your lap, but I do think that God honors those who seek him and his will.

The advice may not be new and it may seem trite, but it’s true: don’t give up. Don’t quit. God is faithful to keep his promises, no matter what. That’s something I’ve been reminded of lately when I myself was tempted to throw in the towel and give up.

On a side note, today is a good reminder of why my hope is not in a football team. Or basketball team. Or any other kind of sports team. On any given day, any good team can lose and any not-so-good team can find a way to win. If I lived and died by a particular college or pro team, I’d be majorly disappointed. Plus, if I were a betting man, I’d be flat broke.

But my hope is on the winning side (and if you need proof, read the last chapter of Revelation).