Motive: the reason behind certain things we do. Motives. Some are purely selfish – the results will be pleasurable. Some are sacrificial – what happens in the end will benefit someone else more than us.
The world's perception of Tim Tebow's motives varies from self-promotion to religiosity. The hype involved in his "Tebow-ing" has accelerated with each of his team's wins and losses, and the exaggeration for the looming playoff game between the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos has exceeded all the rest of the games. The Patriots have beaten the Broncos in Denver, and although Tom Brady is what the league calls an elite quarterback compared to all the negative criticism for Tim Tebow's skills, it wasn't so much the Patriots superb play that beat the Broncos that day as it was the poor play by the Broncos with four turnovers, including a fumble by Tebow, which gave the Patriots easy red zone scores.
As Christians we understand the criticisms of Tebow's faith from secular observers. Truly it's impossible for them to understand his motive. Some might respect his expression of faith in matters of football, but to understand his motive for his bold witness for Jesus Christ, they would have to know Jesus personally. As Tebow does. Only then could they realize the real motive for his demonstrations and words of recognition for His Savior originate in love. Not the world's view of love but the spiritual love for the Lord that comes from no other source than a supernatural heartfelt relationship with the Living God.
What's far more disturbing is the criticism of Tebow's faith and testimony by fellow Christians. How can that be? What has he done other than give praise to the Lord for any opportunities he's had to play, to play well, and to celebrate the platform the sport has given him to acknowledge God enables him to do what he loves, and if he's able to play well, he attributes his abilities to the Lord. I mean, isn't that what we do on this earth during our time here? Isn't that the measure of our witness? If we can, we give all praise to the Lord. We stand bold and proclaim His Name, His love, His grace, His forgiveness, and when we accomplish something, we defer to Jesus and what He's done for us. What could be of more value? And if Tim Tebow uses his voice and gestures to praise the Lord, we should cheer him on - not for winning or losing but for acknowledging who's given him his opportunities.
It's questionable and maybe even unlikely that the Broncos will beat the Patriots in New England, but Tim Tebow will go into the game and come out of the game intact. His witness doesn't change. He's unashamed. He loves the Lord, and he's not afraid to demonstrate it or give credit where credit is due. I say: Bravo. And praise the Lord!
Father, continue to bless Tim, to show him your specific directions for his life, strengthen him in body, soul, and spirit, and keep him safe from all harm. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
Into the Fire 
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