Tomorrow night the NFL Draft begins and for the next few days, teams will welcome new players into their organization. GMs and coaches are filled with hope and excitement that their draft picks will bring tremendous value to their franchise and make them a better team.
Following their selections, GMs and coaches will often do interviews explaining why they chose each specific player and we’ll hear reasons such as these:
“We believe he’ll add a great level of leadership to our defense.”
“We anticipate he’ll contribute right away on offense and his speed will be noticed immediately.”
“We're convinced that taking a player of his caliber is going to change the course of our franchise and alter our direction in a very positive way.”
“We know he’s going to impact how we play defense and is going to make a difference when it comes to getting after the quarterback.”
“By drafting him, he’s going to really improve our running game.”
“What attracted us to him, was his character, hard work, high motor, and passion for the game.” I realize these may be considered cliches or coachspeak, but the truth is, many players do live up to these statements when they enter locker rooms, join franchises, and step onto the field. So what about us? Are we changing the course of "franchises? What do we add to the lives of people around us? What kind of value do we bring to our jobs, neighborhoods, churches, and families? Do we make others better because we’ve entered their lives? When we join someone or step into their struggles, do we leave a lasting impact on them? Are our contributions making a difference? In order to help people experience meaningful change or truly alter the direction of their lives, we must have a Biblical and Christ-centered approach. Jesus will shine through us when we seek to contribute to others’ lives and the impact will come when we use the gifts God has given us to make a difference for His glory. The Bible explains in Romans 12:6-8 (NLT), “In His grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. “If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.” As we think about how the latest draftees will change franchises and improve offenses with their skillsets, let’s be encouraged to consider how we’re using our gifts to change lives, add value, and help improve situations we enter into. While Jesus works in us and empowers us, let’s bring joy, kindness, hope, and peace, and allow our light to shine every time we enter a room. As Matthew 5:15-16 (NLT) reminds us, “No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Just like teams are drawn to certain NFL draftees who shine and stand out, people will be attracted to us based on our character, hard work, high motor, passion for Jesus, and how we serve others with our God-given gifts. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray I’d use the gifts You’ve given me to impactfully make a difference and contribute in meaningful ways to people’s lives. I pray that my life would reflect You and bring glory to You. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen. Discussion Questions for PACKS:
In what ways are you intentionally contributing to making the lives of others better?
What gifts has God given you to impact others and bring Him glory?
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