I often talk to the offensive linemen that I coach and remind them that football is really a very simple game. It has been said that football is a simple game made difficult by coaches. I always jokingly say, “It is a stupid game for crazy people. Who else would stand outside in the heat, in a helmet, and hit each other?” We spend hours and hours in meetings watching video of the previous day’s practice and correcting mistakes. We spend countless hours on a practice field working on the skills to help them be successful, but the game is really as simple as, for the offensive line, using their body to move another person’s body. It’s really, “As simple as that!” The problems arise when the other person does not want to be moved. I teach my players how to play with their pads low, step in the correct way, and who to block on each play but the game is as simple as one person moving another. When I am deciding on the starting positions I always review the previous videos of practice and determine who moved somebody, regardless of how correct the techniques may have been. If he moved the other guy, then he was successful. If he did not move his man, then he was not. As simple as that!
In the verse from John 14, Jesus is telling us how simple our relationship with our Heavenly Father should be. If we truly love him we will obey his teaching. If we do not truly love him, we will not. As simple as that! For an offensive lineman, his job, at the basic level, is very simple. It’s just one big guy pushing another big guy. It becomes difficult when they leave the comfort of the meeting room, go onto the field, and into the heat. It becomes even more difficult on the field so it takes many hours of film study and practice in order to be ready on Friday nights. Our Heavenly Father tells us that we show our love to Him by obeying His laws. A very simple idea when we are alone, studying His word, or with a group of Christian friends. The difficult part comes when we step outside into the real world and into the heat. Our love for Him also takes constant work and practice. We have to study His word, ask for His guidance, and pray continually. He promises to prepare us to face the trials of life and will give us courage and wisdom, if we only ask. He also promises that if we obey His teachings, then He will be with us and make his home with us.
Today, as I prayed, I asked Him to stand guard over my actions, thoughts, and words. As simple as that! I also asked Him to give me the wisdom it takes to trust His promises in the crazy world we all face everyday.
Chad
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