Michael Vick remains one of the most electrifying and dynamic quarterbacks the NFL has ever seen. Watching him run and make defenders miss was exciting – despite the fact that he put his body on the line when he left the pocket.

Along with Vick risking injury when hitting the open field, Baltimore Ravens quarterback, Lamar Jackson, faces a similar dilemma as a skilled rusher who has an aggressive running style.

Last season, Jackson started seven games and rushed 147 times for 695 yards. However, as successful as Jackson was rushing the ball, there is a concern that a quarterback running the ball too much is not sustainable.

Vick, who understands the toll it takes on a quarterback, shared the following wisdom and warning for Jackson in an interview withESPN.com:

“With quarterbacks, we’re not used to getting hit all the time. When we do it, it can either get you into the game or it can shake you up a little bit. It’s not like a guy sitting in the pocket, you run the risk of getting injured. I’m not saying that should deter Lamar or scare him; I’m just saying proceed with caution.”

This is sage advice coming from a player who understands the desire to run and make plays, while also realizing the dangers. Vick is leveraging his experience, and hopefully, Jackson hears the message to “proceed with caution.” (It appears the Ravens have already made changes to the offense for the upcoming season.)

Likewise, we’ve all been given plenty of warnings throughout our lives and some we take to heart and others we blow off. Unfortunately, it’s easy to respond with…

  • “That won’t happen to me.”

  • “Yeah, that may have been true for you, but I’m different.”

  • I” hear what you’re saying, but this is my only option.”

  • “I’ve got it under control, it won’t be a problem.”

The truth is, warnings and advice are given to protect us. They are shared with us by an expert or someone who has been through something already. It’s up to us to be wise and humble enough to listen and “proceed with caution.”

The Bible is filled with warnings and wisdom so that we can live a fulfilling life found in Jesus. God created us and is all-knowing, so it’s in our best interest to be obedient and follow His Word.

Proverbs, the book of wisdom, shares these two important verses:

“Pride ends in destruction; humility ends in honor” (Proverbs 18:12 – TLB).

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Proverbs 14:12 – ESV).

When we humble ourselves and openly accept advice and warnings, we avoid many pitfalls. This way we have a better understanding of how often to “run up the field” and when to “remain in the pocket.”

Today, let’s learn from those who have gone before us and listen to the Lord’s leading each day…instead of thinking we’ve got it all figured out on our own.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for my pride and unwillingness to listen to wise advice. I pray that I would heed the warnings You have for me and live according to Your will. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Discussion Questions for PACKS:

1. What is the best advice or greatest warnings you’ve received?

2. When was a time you went against advice or a warning, but wish you would have listened?