The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the best franchises in sports, and for the last 18 seasons, they relied on starting quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, to lead their offense. Although he had some down seasons with injuries, he won two Super Bowls and his career accomplishments will send him into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. For so many years, the Steelers knew who their franchise quarterback was and never had to worry about it. However, all that changes this season as replacing Roethlisberger is a big concern creating a high level of uncertainty. Former 2nd overall pick from the Chicago Bears, Mitchell Trubisky, signed with Pittsburgh in the offseason and will have a chance to start, as will the Steelers 2022 first-round pick, Kenny Pickett, and Roethlisberger's previous backup, Mason Rudolph. In a recent interview on The Pivot Podcast, Steelers head coach, Mike Tomlin, opened up about how he’s feeling and approaching the upcoming season without Ben Roethlisberger: “The dude’s arm talent was so special for so long. When you see special stuff every day, you get used to it. I’ve enjoyed that comfort, we’ve all enjoyed that comfort. I’m excited about being uncomfortable.” He understands there will be challenges ahead, but says, “...I’m looking forward to the anxiety associated with that uncertainty. To have to stand and deliver, to live out what we believe in…” He also added later, “...it’s scary. But exciting.” It seems crazy that Tomlin embraces being uncomfortable with the uncertainty at the quarterback position, but I appreciate his perspective and excitement. We, too, can find ourselves in seasons of discomfort. Maybe life was once going well and we were comfortable with a clear direction at “quarterback,” and then suddenly we were hit with confusion and uncertainty about what to do next. Despite having different options in front of us, it can be scary not having the answer yet. However, as followers of Jesus, I think we can be “excited about being uncomfortable” because it draws us toward God for comfort, which then serves as a reminder of His love and goodness. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV) says, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God." 1 Peter 1:6 (NLT) tells us, "So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while." Seasons of uncertainty and being uncomfortable also provide opportunities to seek God for guidance toward a new direction as we embrace the change that is taking place. Being uncomfortable can be exciting as it gives us the chance to deepen our faith while trusting Him and waiting for Him to reveal what’s next. James 1:2-3 (AMP) gives us this challenge: "Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. Be assured that the testing of your faith produces endurance ." Romans 5:3-5 (NLT) explains, "We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love." Today, let's choose excitement and joy during the challenging and scary seasons of discomfort as we continue to “live out what we believe in.” Let's trust God as He guides us through our uncertainty into clarity. I'm Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for comforting me in my discomfort. I know these seasons can be good and fruitful as You transform me and open up new doors. I pray I'd be able to choose excitement and joy during trials and uncertainty. I am certain You are good and worthy to be trusted. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
Discussion Questions for PACKS:
Why can we be excited during seasons of discomfort?
What uncertain situation are you in right now that may be scary and exciting?
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