UNPACK This...Finding God's FaithfulnessSample

The Tenacity Of Steve Smith

Retired NFL receiver Steve Smith, Sr., is one of my favorite athletes of all time. With many great catches and a passion for the game, his playing style has been thrilling to watch over the years.

Upon Smith's retirement, Tad Haislop from The Sporting News described him this way: "The truth is Smith's greatness is based on whatever 'it' is. The trash talk; the celebrations; the tenacity — Smith, at 5-9, 185 pounds, arguably is the most intimidating player in NFL history, pound-for-pound."

I think the perfect word Haislop used is "tenacity." Drafted in the third round, Smith was a small punt returner as a rookie who developed into one of the league's most electric players.

He played 1-15 and 2-14 seasons with the Panthers. During his career, Smith also overcame injuries, including a broken leg, a broken arm, and a torn Achilles tendon.

Despite some poor quarterback play and devastating injuries, Smith kept showing up season after season.

As we think about Steve Smith's tenacity, I hope we are encouraged to be tenacious in our lives–combining passion and persistence. We might find ourselves in situations with a "bad quarterback" or "injuries" or other limitations, but we can remain determined to keep going.

When it comes to our faith journey and following Jesus, sometimes it seems too hard, and we want to give up. Maybe we get tired of doing the right thing or not getting the credit we think we deserve.

During these times, we must rely on God's faithfulness and power to help us continue being tenacious about serving Him. The Bible says in Galatians 6:9 (NLT), "So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up."

Today, let's challenge ourselves to live with tenacity and obey God passionately and persistently. Let's trust in His faithfulness...and never give up.

I'm Bryce Johnson, and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray I will continue to be tenacious about following Jesus and not give up when things get tough. Please give me the strength to persevere and not tire of doing good. I thank You for all of Your blessings. I pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.