As we get ready for the Superbowl here in the United States, I have some thoughts about Football and God. Growing up, I loved football. Though I wasn’t great at catching the ball, I found joy as a quarterback, calling the plays and directing the action. Football fascinated me then and still does today, a game deeply woven into American culture. But as much as I enjoyed being the quarterback, I realize now that my role in life isn’t to call the shots—it’s to be a receiver.

This analogy hit home when I learned about the history of football. Did you know that before 1906, forward passes were illegal? Teams relied solely on lateral plays or handoffs. But once the forward pass became legal, the game transformed. The University of St. Louis capitalized on this change, training their players to embrace a new way of playing. They outscored their opponents 402 to 11 that season! The forward pass demanded a new role—receivers—whose job was to run their routes, catch the ball, and advance the play.

In life, we, too, are called to be receivers—not quarterbacks. Let me explain.

God as the Quarterback

In the game of life, God is the ultimate quarterback. He calls the plays, sets the vision, and delivers perfect passes. His throws are always precise and filled with grace, love, provision, and purpose. But our job isn’t to take over His role. Instead, our role is to position ourselves to receive what He’s throwing our way.

Too often, we try to step into the quarterback role, thinking we know best. We attempt to control the outcomes, dictate the playbook, and fix situations ourselves. But here’s the truth: God is infinitely better at orchestrating the game. He’s never missed a throw, fumbled a play, or been intercepted. Our task isn’t to call the shots but to trust His perfect leadership.

Becoming a Good Receiver

So, how can we become better receivers in life? Here are five keys:

1. Get Off the Bleachers

You can’t be a receiver if you’re sitting in the stands. James 1:22 challenges us to be doers of the Word, not hearers only. In football terms, that means suiting up and stepping onto the field. Don’t just watch others live out their faith—get in the game. Ask God, “What’s my role? Where do You want me to serve?” God is looking for hearts willing to say, “Here I am. Use me.”

2. Join the Huddle

No receiver runs aimlessly on the field. They huddle with the quarterback to hear the play. Similarly, we must “huddle” with God—spending time in prayer, worship, and His Word. Jeremiah 33:3 reminds us, “Call to me, and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” When we draw near to God, He reveals His plans and equips us for the next step.

3. Run Your Route

Once we’ve heard the play, our job is to run the route God has given us. Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus. Don’t get distracted by comparing yourself to others or veering off course because of challenges. Stay focused on your God-given purpose, trusting that He will meet you where He’s called you to be.

4. Hold Tight to the Ball

Once you’ve caught the ball, expect opposition. The enemy will try to strip you of God’s promises through doubt, fear, or discouragement. Just as a receiver secures the ball tightly to avoid a fumble, we must cling to God’s truth. When doubts arise, declare His Word: “I am more than a conqueror” (Romans 8:37) or “God’s plans for me are good” (Jeremiah 29:11). Hold fast to the promises He’s placed in your hands.

5. Keep Your Eyes on the End Zone

The goal of every play is to advance toward the end zone. Spiritually, our ultimate “end zone” is eternity with God, but along the way, He’s calling us to bring others with us. Philippians 3:13-14 urges us to forget what lies behind and press on toward the prize. Don’t let past mistakes or current challenges hold you back. Keep running toward the vision God has set before you.

God’s Perfect Game Plan

What makes God the perfect quarterback? He’s never late, never off target, and always faithful. The question isn’t whether God will deliver; it’s whether we’ll be in a position to receive. If we’re on the sidelines, distracted, or hesitant, we might miss what He’s trying to give us. But when we stay faithful, focused, and ready, God’s blessings will land right where they’re supposed to.

Let this encourage you today: no matter where you are in life, God is still calling plays on your behalf. Step into your role as a receiver, get into the huddle, and run your route with purpose. And when that ball comes your way, catch it, hold tight, and head for the end zone.