On Saturday, the Detroit Lions and the Los Angeles Rams announced their huge trade: Jared Goff and draft picks for QB, Matthew Stafford.

In thinking about the process involved for this trade to take place, we can see how being in agreement was pivotal:

  • Matthew Stafford was in agreement with the Lions that his time in Detroit needed to end, so they started exploring trade partners.

  • The Lions’ new regime was in agreement they needed a different quarterback to lead their offense.

  • The Rams’ front office was in agreement with head coach, Sean McVay, that they were more likely to win a Super Bowl with Stafford.

  • The Lions and Rams were in agreement that they couldn’t continue down the same path with their quarterbacks and needed to make a change.

Seeing if Stafford can win after years of losing in Detroit, and how Goff plays without McVay as his coach, should prove interesting. Although this major move will have a domino effect across the NFL, most people agree it’s going to be good for both teams.

As we think about all of the agreements that occurred for this big change to take place, let’s consider how change in our life comes from being in agreement with God.

Here are a few questions for us to ask ourselves:

  • Are we in agreement with God that Jesus is who He says He is and that He died on the cross and rose again?
  • Are we in agreement with God that we are a sinner in need of a Savior and that Jesus is the only answer?
  • Are we in agreement with God that He is God…and we are not?
  • Are we in agreement with God that His Word, the Bible, is true and we must live according to what He says?
  • Are we in agreement with God that His way is the best way and we need His Spirit’s help to guide us each day?

Hopefully, we answer yes to those questions, but along our faith journey, we still make mistakes and sin. When we do, we must decide whether or not to continue on the same path or make a change.

In other words, when we blow it and feel convicted about our disobedience, are we willing to be in agreement with God that we were wrong? Do we confess our sin, ask God for forgiveness, and ultimately repent because we are in agreement with Him?

1 John 1:8-10 (AMP) says, “If we say we have no sin [refusing to admit that we are sinners], we delude ourselves and the truth is not in us. [His word does not live in our hearts.]

“If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].

“If we say that we have not sinned [refusing to admit acts of sin], we make Him [out to be] a liar [by contradicting Him] and His word is not in us.”

Job 22:21-23 (AMP) tells us, “Now yield and submit yourself to Him [agree with God and be conformed to His will] and be at peace; In this way [you will prosper and great] good will come to you.

“Please receive the law and instruction from His mouth and establish His words in your heart and keep them. If you return to the Almighty [and submit and humble yourself before Him], you will be built up [and restored];…”

The Lions and Rams were in agreement that heading down the same path would be a mistake, so they made a change and now have a fresh start with a new QB in charge.

Today, let’s be in agreement with God by following Him and seeking to do His will. Let’s trade our sin for His grace and forgiveness…and thank Him for a fresh start.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I agree that I’m a broken sinner in need of Your grace and that Jesus is who He says He is. Please help me to yield to Your will each day. When I do miss the mark, show me ways I was wrong and help me repent, and turn back toward You. Thank you for changing me and giving me a fresh start. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Discussion Questions for PACKS:

  1. In what ways do you have a tough time being in agreement with God?

  2. How has God convicted you to make a change, and as you look back, you’re so glad you agreed?