When former NFL running back Matt Forte retired, he had one thing in mind—obey God. He said, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop. Now that I have more time on my hands—time not filled with workouts and schedules made for me—I am investing more time in filling myself up with positive, Christ-centered things. I can’t just sit there and let idle, negative, or non-productive things captivate my mind. One thing that has been really great for me is teaching my daughter Bible verses. In doing so, they are becoming more cemented in my own heart and mind. I’m also focusing more time and energy on my foundation, where I’m able to influence and impact the youth in Chicago.”

Isaiah 6;9 – Guided Life

Forte’s focus mirrors that of the book of Isaiah, which aimed to demonstrate God’s holiness and grace and to call His people to return to Him in obedience and faith. Throughout our lives, we are commanded to obey. Whether it is a coach telling us, “Pick that up,” “Don’t do that,” or a parent instructing us to make our bed, we all understand that obedience is a necessary part of sports, but obeying God involves a relationship that transcends any other. Despite our disobedience, God has given us a Redeemer in Jesus. Through Him, we gain eternal life in the presence of the same God Isaiah witnessed. 

God called Isaiah to confront a faithless king and declare judgment for the present and hope for the future. Isaiah 1:19 promises us, “If you are willing and obey, you will eat the best of the land.” God asks us to obey Him because His plan is always for our betterment. He sees what lies ahead of us. Like a Good Shepherd, He wants to guide us into an incredible life filled with all the goodness of His Kingdom.

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete trust in God when they face a time of crisis, ignoring the distractions of the situation.

Bible Memory Verse – “He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He did not open His mouth; Like a lamb that is led to slaughter, And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, So He did not open His mouth.” Isaiah 53:7 (LSB)