“As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying: ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” – Luke 3:4 NKJV

I’ll never forget being at home in Tulsa, Oklahoma after separating my shoulder during the 2015 NFL preseason. Due to this injury, the Miami Dolphins released me on an injury settlement. Upon returning home, I spent six weeks in the hospital with my momma, because her cancer returned. Now, as I reflect on my life and career, I realize that God placed me in each of these situations for a special purpose. If I had not injured my shoulder, I would have still been in Miami, instead of by my momma’s side. A seemingly unfortunate injury ended up enabling me to spend every day at the hospital with her, encouraging and uplifting her spirits.  

God uses us in specific moments and times as instruments to do His will. In the past, I had a habit of completely missing opportunities to do what God was calling me to do. It’s easy to get caught up in being selfish and believing our circumstances are all about us, especially in unfortunate situations. We have to realize that God is using these monumental moments to influence and benefit others. In the beginning, we may not see the dots connect. However, as we continue to faithfully walk, trusting God, we will see the dots connect in ways we could not imagine.

In the Bible, we see how God used John as His special instrument to spread the message of repentance, so that people would be ready when Jesus returned. Just like God used John and intentionally placed him in the right place at the right time to achieve his purpose, God has done the same for you.

Remember that you have a purpose bigger than your sport or career and give all of yourself to God. Allow yourself to be used as a special instrument to fulfill His plan.
-SG