NFL Players Talk About Faith … and Live It, Too

For most on the Philadelphia Eagles football team, winning Super Bowl LII last February was everything. For the city and its fans, it was a moment they had been waiting for all their lives. But what I find so interesting is that many of the key players like Carson Wentz and Nick Foles were looking to bring glory to the name of the Lord more than the big win.

This week, author Joshua Cooley joined me on the program. His new book The Biggest Win: Pro Football Players Tackle Faith features the faith of six Christian Eagles who care more about God’s glory than their own. Whether you’re a football fan or not, I know you’ll be blessed to hear and read about these Christian athletes who seek to glorify Christ on and off the field.

Listen to the full series featuring the testimonies of several players who not only talk about their faith … but live it out, too.

One of the players featured on the program is Nick Foles. He was close to retiring before last season began, but decided to stick it out one more year. And it’s been so special to see what God had in store for him. Nick went on to lead the Eagles through the playoffs and to win the very first Super Bowl for the team’s franchise. And Nick ended up winning MVP for his performance in the big game.

In the following video, Nick unpacks one of the most misunderstood verses used by athletes today: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

 

 

What is it about a football game that is so electrifying? Two teams facing off on the gridiron, seeking ultimate glory. And it really doesn’t matter what level we’re talking about. We all know the Super Bowl is almost a religious event in America, but college football has almost the same amount of viewers. Cities and towns in America will still shut down for the “Friday Night Lights” of high school games.

I think we love football because we love glory. And glory is something we were created for. Man’s chief end is to glorify God and worship Him forever.

I’m thankful to learn about the faith that binds many of the Philadelphia Eagles players. It reminds me that no matter what line of work you are in, God can and will use your gifts and talents for His glory. In our culture, we are attracted to the glitz and glamor of big games like the Super Bowl. But if you ask any of the Christians on the Philadelphia Eagles team, they’d be the first to say that living for Christ is far better than the fame or fortune the game can offer.

When our eyes are on the real prize – Jesus – then we can live out our faith so that it points people to Him and brings glory to His name! Whether you’re a professional football player, a carpenter, a stay-at-home parent, or a radio host, this is true for us all.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

As the leader of the Haven Ministries, Charles Morris is always thinking of ways to lead Christians and non-Christians to Christ—hence the familiar slogan, “Telling the great story … it’s all about Jesus.” A former secular journalist, Charles has worked for United Press International, and as a press secretary for two former U.S. senators. He and his wife, Janet, have authored several books, including Missing Jesus. Charles’ latest book is Fleeing ISIS, Finding Jesus: The Real Story of God At Work.
Most of the thoughts above are taken from broadcasts of Haven Today. Corum Hughes serves as the editor of this blog and coordinator for Haven’s social media content. A graduate of Moody Bible Institute, Corum lives in Boise, ID with his wife Molly.
 

1 Comment

  • Lula says:

    So inspiring to see this especially since all we hear or read about regarding athletes are negative. Wish the press would print some of this so that all people will know about our Christian athletes.

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