The 2022 NFL Draft is completed, and as exciting as it was for each player to hear their name called throughout the weekend, many players found themselves waiting to be picked much longer than they expected - especially the quarterbacks. Even though the first three players taken last year were all quarterbacks, this year QBs surprisingly faced long delays. Kenny Pickett had to wait longer than most QBs who go off the board first, but he ended up being drafted 20th overall by Pittsburgh. Then, it was a long wait for the next QB to be chosen. The Falcons finally took Desmond Ridder in the third round (74th overall) and according to The Athletic, “this was the most picks between quarterbacks since the record was set in 1975 when 63 picks elapsed from the first selection to the second.” Many draft experts had quarterbacks Malik Willis and Sam Howell high on their draft boards, but those two had to especially wait long before hearing where they would end up. Willis went to the Tennesse Titans in the 3rd round (86th overall), while Howell lasted all the way to the 5th round, and 144th overall to Washington. Meanwhile, Matt Corral was ranked the No. 47th prospect for ESPN.com Scout’s Inc., but he had to wait until pick number 94 when the Panthers traded up into the 3rd round to snag him. While we, as fans, waited to find out where these five quarterbacks would go, they were forced to sit and wait patiently. There was nothing more these players could do, but wait, because they'd already done everything in their power to be drafted. I’m not sure how each guy handled the waiting, but I would imagine this is what they had to do:
Remember draft history and the fact that Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, and Tom Brady all had to wait to be drafted.
Not focus on complaining about how long they had to wait because it wasn't going to speed up the process.
Remain surrounded by loved ones and receive encouragement from those in their tight circle.
Rest in knowing they were going to get an opportunity in the NFL instead of worrying about what pick they were going to be.
Stay confident that they did everything they could leading up to the draft and trust that things would work out at the right time with the right team.
As we think about what these players experienced during the draft, most of us can relate to having to wait for something in our own lives. After we’ve done everything in our control, oftentimes there's a delay before we have an answered prayer such as a new job, a resolution, a diagnosis, healing, or a pregnancy. Since we can’t force most of these things to happen any quicker, we have to let go and wait. However, the question still becomes, what should we do while we wait? As followers of Jesus, here are a few things we're encouraged to do:
Remember history and God’s faithfulness in the past - both in our own lives and in the lives of others. Psalm 77:11 (NLT): “But then I recall all You have done, O Lord; I remember Your wonderful deeds of long ago.”
Not focus on complaining about how long we’re having to wait because it doesn’t speed up the process. Philippians 2:14 (NLT): “Do everything without complaining and arguing…”
Rest in knowing that God has already saved us, our eternity is secure, and He is working things out for our good...instead of being filled with worry. Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV): "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Stay confident that we did everything we were capable of and trust that things will work out at the right time according to God’s will. Proverbs 16:9 (NLT): "We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps."
Remain surrounded by loved ones and receive encouragement from those in our tight circle. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV): "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
Waiting is one of the hardest things we have to do, but whether it’s waiting to be drafted or waiting for God to move in some other area of our lives, we can wait with peace and confidence as we trust in Him. God is faithful and will empower us with the strength we need to endure. So much is out of our control, but in the end, that’s a good thing because the One who is in control knows what He is doing. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I don't like to wait, but as I do please help me to trust You. I need Your strength to endure the challenge of waiting. Help me to remember You're in control and You are faithful. Please give me peace and encouragement and help me not to complain or get discouraged. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.Discussion Questions for PACKS:
Based on the list above, what is most challenging for you to do while waiting on God?
What are ways God has shown Himself faithful in the past that help you wait now?
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