Everything is a Gift from God

“John answered, ‘A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven.’” (John 3:27, ESV)

One of my sons had a run in with the Holy Spirit this week. He was getting food at a local eatery when he interacted with a young man with Downs Syndrome. The interaction left my son reflecting upon how blessed he was to have the problems with which he was struggling. He rightly assessed that this young man would never have the "gift" of wondering what car to buy, mortgage to pay or family for which to provide.

Guys, as we grind through practices, push through games, and chase victories, it’s easy to think our success depends only on our hustle, our strength, or our strategy. But John 3:27 stops us in our tracks with a powerful truth: “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven.” Everything we have—our skills, our teamwork, our very breath—is a gift from God.

Think about it. That arm you throw with? That speed you run with? That heart that keeps you fighting when the score’s tight? Those are not accidents. God gave you those gifts. The coaches who push you, the teammates who lift you up, even the chance to play this game—it’s all from Him.

John the Baptist, who said these words, got this. His followers were worried because Jesus was getting more attention. But John didn’t stress. He knew his role, his influence, everything he had, was given by God for a purpose. He trusted God’s plan, and that freed him to do his part without jealousy or fear.

As a football team, we need that same mindset. Every play, every practice, every win or loss is part of God’s plan for us. Maybe you’re the star quarterback, or maybe you’re on the bench, waiting for your moment. Maybe we’re dominating this season, or maybe we’re struggling to find our rhythm. Whatever the case, God’s got a purpose. He’s shaping you—not just as athletes, but as men of character, faith, and purpose.

Why do we trust God’s plan? Because He sees the big picture. You might not understand why you’re facing a tough opponent, an injury, or a loss that stings. But God uses every moment to build something in you—resilience, humility, teamwork, trust. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” When we trust God, we play with freedom, knowing the outcome is in His hands. We give our all, not to prove ourselves, but to honor the One who gave us everything.

And here’s the thing: trusting God’s plan isn’t just for the field. It’s for your life. The dreams you have, the challenges you face, the future you’re chasing—God’s got a plan for it all. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that His plans are for our good, to give us a hope and a future. So whether you’re aiming for a college scholarship, a career beyond football, or just trying to figure out who you are, trust that God’s gifts and His timing are perfect.

God placed the young man in the path of my son not for him to feel pity or sorrow for him but because He wanted to remind my son how God has a plan for everyone. This encounter gave my son a chance to reflect, to thank God for the gifts he has been given which include the obstacles with which he was struggling.

Closing Prayer:

Father, thank You for every gift You’ve given this team—our talents, our brotherhood, our opportunities. Help us trust Your plan, whether we’re winning or learning through loss. Let us play and live with gratitude, knowing everything comes from You. Guide us to honor You on and off the field. In Jesus’ name, Amen.