God's Coaching #348

God's Coaching #348

Jason Campbell just couldn’t seem to catch a break. In 2005, Jason’s NFL career seemed destined for greatness. After having led Auburn University to a 13-0 record a season earlier, Jason was drafted in the first round by the Washington Redskins and was named their quarterback of the future. But he never really caught on in DC, which wasn’t entirely his fault. The Redskins changed offensive systems almost every year that Jason was in Washington, and he rarely had a strong offensive line to protect him. In the Redskins’ last play-off season, Jason was sidelined with an injury when the team’s record was 6-7 and watched as backup Todd Collins led the team to three straight wins and a play-off berth in 2007.

Finally, after five frustrating seasons, the Redskins traded Jason to Oakland. It seemed like a fresh start. But midway through the second game of the 2010 season, the Raiders benched Jason in favor of Bruce Gradkowski.

What’s the Score?

While Jason didn’t always perform like a first-round draft pick, the problems he faced were often out of his control. Yet throughout his career, he has never complained or given up. Jason, who became a Christian when he was in junior high, realizes that difficulties are meant for our good.

The Bible teaches that trials—or difficult situations—are actually good because they show us who we are. They are like an X-ray, examining everything that’s going on inside us. Trials test our faith, reveal what we’re trusting in, and show us where we need to grow. In fact, God often allows us to go through different types of trials. This is not unkind of him. It actually shows that he loves us, because trials help us pinpoint where our hearts and minds are sinful and need to be adjusted. The next time you endure a trial, do the unexpected: thank God for it!

On the Ball

Make a list of trials you’ve gone through in life and what God has taught you through them.

Trial What I Learned

Coach’s Comment

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4