As the calendar turns to November and the weather begins to change around the country, NFL teams know how important their running backs are this time of year.
Everyone talks a lot about how great the quarterbacks are in the league (which they are), but the teams that effectively run the ball down the stretch are the ones in a strong position to make the playoffs.
Ezekiel Elliott, Christian McCaffrey, Dalvin Cook, Alvin Kamara, and Aaron Jones are a few of the names that come to mind when we think about the most important runners on good teams in the game today. They exude an electrifying ability to get past defenders by showcasing their speed and athleticism.
Each one of them has their own unique style and bring value to their teams in different ways, but the one quality I want to hone in on today is their special ability to leap over defenders. It’s a highlight play when they run toward a tackler, jump over him, and then keep on going.
This is a risky play for a running back because he can be more vulnerable to injury off the ground and a hard fall is a possibility, but the runner sees the opportunity, makes the leap, and avoids the defender.
Watching one of our favorite players go for a move like that is scary and exciting all at the same time.
In many ways, this is a great illustration of what it means to take a leap of faith in our own lives. There are times when we feel a deep conviction about an opportunity and know the right move requires a full-on leap of faith.
We know the “defenders” could attempt to take us down or taking the risk could lead to a potential fall, but when our leap of faith is rooted in God and His direction, it’s always worth making the jump.
It’s uncomfortable, scary, and exciting to make a move like that because we’re forced to totally depend on Him to help us land where we need to, and overcome any hurdles that come our way. Hebrews 11:1 (ESV) reminds us, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” And 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV) tells us, “For we live by faith, not by sight.”
Today, as faith drives our decisions, let’s trust the power of Jesus living in us to help us get past the fear that wants to tackle us...and take that life-changing leap of faith.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, when You call me to take a leap of faith, help me not to be overcome by fear, but allow Your strength to give me the confidence to go for it. I want to experience the excitement and joy of trusting and obeying You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What was the last leap of faith you remember taking?
Is there a leap of faith you feel like you need to take right now, but are hesitant to do so? Why?
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