Events + Response = Outcome

Life is full of events—things that happen to us, often beyond our control. A fumble on the field, a tough practice, an injury, or even challenges at home or school. We can’t always control these events, but we can control how we respond. And it’s our response that determines the outcome. This is true in football, in life, and in our walk with God.

Let’s look at Joseph from the Bible. As a young man, Joseph faced events that could have crushed him. His brothers betrayed him, threw him into a pit, and sold him into slavery. He was falsely accused and thrown into prison. Talk about events he couldn’t control!

But Joseph’s response was remarkable. Instead of giving in to bitterness or despair, he chose faithfulness, integrity, and trust in God. He worked diligently as a slave, served honorably in prison, and eventually rose to become second-in-command of Egypt, saving countless lives during a famine.

Joseph couldn’t control his brothers’ jealousy or the false accusations against him, but he controlled his response. He chose to trust God, work hard, and treat others with respect. His response shaped his outcome, turning tragedy into triumph. God used Joseph’s faithfulness to bring about a greater purpose.

This principle—Events + Response = Outcome—applies directly to our team. In practice, maybe you’re struggling to master a new play or you’re exhausted from running drills. The event is the tough practice; you can’t change that it’s hard. But your response? That’s on you. Do you push through with grit and focus, or do you slack off and complain? Your response determines whether you grow stronger and more skilled or stay stagnant.

In games, events like a bad call from a ref, a missed tackle, or a dropped pass can rattle us. We can’t undo those moments, but we can choose how we respond. Do you let a mistake define you, or do you shake it off, encourage your teammates, and focus on the next play? A team that responds with unity, resilience, and determination can turn a tough game into a comeback victory. Your response shapes the outcome—for you and for the team.

As a team, we’re stronger when we respond together. When one of you stumbles, the rest of us can lift him up. When we face a tough opponent, our collective response—our hustle, our trust in each other, our refusal to quit—defines whether we walk off the field with our heads held high, regardless of the scoreboard.

When you’re deciding how to respond, there’s no better guide than Jesus. You’ve probably heard the phrase, “What would Jesus do?” It’s not just a catchy saying—it’s a way of life. Jesus faced countless events He didn’t choose: betrayal, rejection, even the cross. Yet His response was always love, forgiveness, and trust in God’s plan. When He was insulted, He didn’t curse back. When He was crucified, He prayed for those who hurt Him. His response changed the outcome for all of humanity, bringing salvation to the world.

When you’re unsure how to respond—whether it’s a tough moment in a game, a conflict with a teammate, or a challenge at home—ask yourself, What would Jesus do? Turn to Him in prayer. Read His words in the Bible. Jesus is the ultimate coach, guiding you to respond with courage, humility, and love. When you choose to respond like Jesus, you’re not just shaping your outcome—you’re reflecting God’s glory to those around you.

This week, pay attention to the events in your life—on the field, in practice, at school, or at home. When something tough happens, pause and think: How can I respond in a way that honors God and my team? What would Jesus do? Whether it’s encouraging a struggling teammate, pushing through a hard practice, or staying calm after a bad play, let your response reflect Christ’s character. Your choices will shape your outcomes and inspire those around you.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for being our example and our guide. Help us to respond to life’s events with faith, courage, and love, just as You did. Give us strength as a team to lift each other up and to play for Your glory. May our responses on and off the field reflect You and shape outcomes that honor You. In Your name, Amen.