The legendary NFL coach, Don Shula, has passed away at the age of 90. Although I’m too young to have experienced the peak of his coaching career, I understand he’s one of the best coaches the league has ever had.

During the 1972 season, Coach Shula’s Miami Dolphins went undefeated and won the Super Bowl (the only team with this incredible accomplishment), and then the following season won the Super Bowl again.

He holds the NFL record for most regular-season wins and total wins (including playoffs) as a head coach.

His storied career in football spanned from 1951-1995 as a player and a coach. His former players speak highly of him while also admitting how tough and demanding he was, but what were his best qualities that made him so effective in leading a football team?

Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson summed it up well: “…his greatest asset as a coach, several former players said, was his diligent preparation and ability to maximize their talents.”

Former Dolphins running back Troy Stradford, who played four seasons under Shula, gave this explanation: “His teams couldn’t have been any more prepared. We prepared for everything, from how you walked off the bus to how you walk in the stadium.

“That is what always stuck with me. He may have been tough on those not looking for excellence. For someone who wanted to be very good or great at what they did, he was the perfect coach for that.”

Coach Shula had some extreme ways of being prepared. He not only made sure hotel chefs and food service staff knew how steaks for the Dolphins should look, but also placed importance on knowing the train schedule so his team wouldn’t get stopped at a railroad crossing.

Ultimately, his attention to detail and overall preparation on and off the football field played a big role in his success.

As we look back on Coach Shula’s life and career, let’s unpack the value of preparation in our own lives. First of all, “prepared” includes these definitions:

“Ready to do or deal with something.”

“Made ready for use.”

“Be willing to do something.”

As followers of Jesus, it’s important we prepare the best we can to handle the temptations, trials, and tribulations that come our way. We do this by studying scripture and deepening our understanding of who God is. We also want to prepare to be used by God and to be ready to answer the questions people ask about our faith.

Peter 3:15 (ESV) says “…always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you…”

When we live differently because of Christ in us, people notice our hope, joy, peace. We need to be willing to tell them why we are the way we are.

The Amplified version gives us an expanded understanding of verse 15:

“But in your hearts set Christ apart [as holy—acknowledging Him, giving Him first place in your lives] as Lord. Always be ready to give a [logical] defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope and confident assurance [elicited by faith] that is within you, yet [do it] with gentleness and respect.”

Of course, life is unpredictable and so much is out of our control, but we do know we can be prepared to defend our faith and tell people about Jesus.

Additionally, by being prayerfully and spiritually attuned, we can be prepared for the situations God puts us in for His purposes and His glory. Preparation also helps us avoid foolish decisions and certain dangers.

Proverbs 22:3 (NLT) tells us, “A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.”

Don Shula will be missed, but I’m thankful for his example of preparation. Today, as we desire to be prepared, let’s be encouraged to think wisely, pray earnestly, know God’s Word, and be ready to stand firm in our faith.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know that preparation doesn’t mean I have to know everything, but please help me be prudent, thoughtful, and aware. I pray I’d be prepared to tell others about the hope and peace I have because of You. Please show me how to foresee danger and live wisely. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Discussion Questions for PACKS:

  1. How is preparation a strength or a weakness in your life?

  2. Explain the ways being prepared saved you from trouble in the past?