Ryan Fitzpatrick, better known as "FitzMagic," is one of the most beloved quarterbacks in NFL history. Yesterday, he confirmed he's retiring after playing for 17 seasons. Finishing with one of the most unique careers, Fitzpatrick set a record for starting on nine different NFL teams. Drafted in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft (out of Harvard), he never played in the playoffs but had 18-game winning drives and 13 comebacks along the way. Although he started for every team he played for, he’ll be most remembered for his effectiveness as an exciting backup who came into games with a spark. He consistently filled in admirably for the regular starter who was out injured. During his rookie season with the Rams, Fitzpatrick made his NFL debut by replacing the injured Jamie Martin in the second quarter. He went on to throw for 310 yards, which to this day is the 8th most passing yards for a debut. Throughout his career, Fitzpatrick was the backup for quarterbacks such as Carson Palmer in Cincinnati, Trent Edwards in Buffalo, Jake Locker in Tennesse, Geno Smith in New York, and Jameis Winston in Tampa Bay. Despite being a second-string quarterback, Fitzpatrick had opportunities to get out on the field and replace those starters. As he ends his career, he's considered the favorite backup quarterback among many fan bases. The sports cliche that sums up Fitzpatrick's 17 NFL seasons is “next man up.” He always had to be ready and prepared to play at any given time. Although Fitzpatrick was initially a backup, he ultimately became a starter and showed he was equipped and prepared to handle his role as the "next man up." He was able to set himself up to succeed whenever he was called upon. In our own lives, we can implement the “next man up” mentality by always staying ready for when God calls upon us to take action, step up, and fill in. When waiting for our chance or praying for God to open a particular door, we shouldn’t be discouraged or spend time complaining. Instead, we ought to use that time to become equipped and prepared while staying ready for the signal that it’s our time. This enables us to jump right in as the “next man up.” Just like backups who are waiting yet practicing hard, studying the playbook, and listening to their coaches, as followers of Jesus, we should be praying, studying God’s Word, remaining thankful, and seeking wisdom. 1 Peter 1:13 (NLT) says, “So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world.” Colossians 4:2 (AMP) tells us to “Be persistent and devoted to prayer, being alert and focused in your prayer life with an attitude of thanksgiving.” Lastly, as we look for opportunities to serve God and point others toward Jesus and tell them about our faith, this also comes with preparation and the need to be ready. 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV) explains, “…but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” As we say goodbye to one of the best backup quarterbacks to ever play in the NFL who stepped up when called upon, let’s be encouraged to become reliable, equipped, and eager to answer God’s call when He tells us it’s time to get out there. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess I don’t like to wait, but as I do, please help me be equipped and ready for when the time is right. Prepare my mind and heart to serve You and be used by You for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What has your experience been like as “the next man up”?
Have you gone through a season of waiting where you can look back now and realize the ways God was preparing and equipping you?
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