Quarterback Robert Griffin III is one of the most intriguing players in the NFL. He’s had quite the roller coaster ride – winning the Heisman Trophy and Rookie of the Year and being drafted 2nd overall. He’s also had major injuries, lost his starting position, and was released by the Redskins.

It must be very humbling to go from being the face of the franchise and seen in multiple commercials, to being given “walking papers.” There were many problems during his time in Washington, but it’s hard to know exactly the reasons why it ended up not working.

He now has a chance for a fresh start with a new team. Hue Jackson, head coach of the Browns (who may sign him), had some great comments regarding RG3 and taking responsibility: “In the National Football League, you have to keep growing, I don’t care what the situation is. You have to continue to grow.

“And in order to grow, you have to admit you made mistakes along the way and there are some things you can do and fix. Absolutely, you have to be (humble), you have to have a side to you that says, ‘Look, it’s not them. It’s about me, too.’ That goes a long way with me…because until that happens, can you start to rebuild if you still think it’s about them?”

In sports and life, we get caught up in the blame game. It’s always somebody else’s fault for why things go a certain way. However, I believe Coach Jackson’s comments are filled with truth for athletes and for us.

The sooner we humble ourselves, look inward, and acknowledge our mistakes and need for change, the sooner we can stop blaming and begin the rebuilding process. Ultimately, God will do the heart-changing and rebuilding, but it’s important for us to stop pointing the finger at something or someone else.

The Bible reveals in Proverbs 11:2 (NLT) that “pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” When we are humble, we are more likely to acknowledge our mistakes and sins. Proverbs 28:13 (NLT) says, “People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy.”

Today, let’s be encouraged to seek humility and take responsibility for our role in fractured relationships, challenging situations, and bad mistakes. Thanks to Jesus we have mercy and grace available to us. As we confess and turn from our own sin, God can do amazing work to restore and rebuild. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please forgive me for my pride and lack of humility. Please help me to see my own sins and mistakes clearly, instead of blaming other people. Please help me to grow and please strengthen my character as I depend on you. Thank you for your grace and mercy as I confess and turn from my sin. In Jesus’ name, Amen.