NFL fans were fired up to watch the first game of the season last night. We anticipated Aaron Rodgers throwing the ball all over the field...and hoped Mitch Trubisky would show signs of major improvement as the Bears quarterback.
Instead of amazing offensive performances from Chicago and Green Bay, strong defenses were on full display. We knew the Bears were loaded after they were dominant all of last year, but it was a pleasant surprise to see the Packers’ defense shine.
They helped secure the 10-3 win with five sacks and a game-winning interception. After years of Green Bay struggling with their defense and costing them opportunities for wins, it was clear Aaron Rodgers was thrilled with how they played.
Following the game, he excitedly mentioned multiple times, “We got a defense!”
Despite the league becoming more offensive-minded overall, everyone knows how important it is to have a reliable and effective defense. Not only is defending well critical in football, but it’s also important as followers of Jesus.
While living our lives pursuing Him and standing out from the rest of the world because of the peace and joy we have, we need to be ready to defend why we believe what we do.
When we really follow Jesus and live with hope, people will ask us questions and want to know why we’re different. The good news is that “We got a defense!”
We know Jesus transforms lives, so we must take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves and be ready and willing to share when people ask.
The Bible says in, 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV), "... 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…”
Colossians 4:5-6 (NLT) challenges us to "Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Having a strong defense helps win championships in football and having a defense for our faith in Jesus can lead to victories for eternity. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I’m so thankful for the hope, joy, and peace that are found in You. You have transformed my life through Jesus and I pray You’d help me effectively defend why I’m different and why I believe in You. Thank you for giving me a defense when people ask about the hope that is in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Discussion Questions for PACKS:
Why do you believe in Jesus?
How do you respond when people ask you about why you are different?
Why is it important to be able to defend our faith when people ask what we believe?
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