As we go through life, everyone will experience the best of times and the worst of times. It’s going through the worst of times when a person will find out who they really are. God will use adversity to test our faith and develop our character. I often thank God for the trials in my life now that they are in the past, but I always remember to be grateful that He was with me through each one.

Thursday night, the national championship football game between Texas and Alabama was a great example of two players enjoying the best of times and the worst of times.

Colt McCoy, the Texas senior quarterback, playing in the most important game in his career before a national television audience, had prepared all his young life for such a moment. I’m sure his dream was to lead the Longhorns to victory and then basking in the glory of mission accomplished. Maybe even being named the game’s most valuable player. That would have been a great finish to a successful college career. However, that was not to be.

The first three minutes of the game saw McCoy taking apart the Alabama Crimson Tide’s defense on the way to a 3-0 lead. Then the unexpected happened. On a routine running play, he was injured never to return. He had enjoyed the best of times in the first three minutes only to face adversity.

His replacement, Garrett Gilbert, a true freshman, was called on

with not much experience to face the No. 1 defensive team in college football. He experienced the worst of times and Alabama lead 24-6 at halftime.

To Garrett’s credit, in the second half he enjoyed the best of times, bringing his team within three points (24-21) with a chance to win. Then, once again, the worst of times came. He fumbled and threw two interceptions, and Alabama was crowned the national champions.

After the game, Colt McCoy was interviewed to get his thoughts.

He said Alabama had a great team and congratulated them. He wished he could have played and helped

his team. He added, “I would have given anything to do that.” He then concluded that God has a plan for his life, and he never questions Him. “I choose to stay on the Rock (Jesus).”

Colt McCoy, experiencing adversity, came through as a winner, still having faith and showing his character.

If you have any questions or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call (985) 652-8477, or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.net.