Podcasts about upward sports

Today we interviewed AJ Howard! He's been a Super Bowl Winner, App State Coach/Player, NFL Scout, and recently became a coach at the USC Trojans!AJ Howard played strong safety at Appalachian State from 2014-2017, where he was a captain, won 3 bowl games, and 2 conference championships. He enters his first season as a defensive analyst/assistant linebackers coach at USC (Southern Cal). Previously, AJ was the outside linebackers coach at App State from 2023-24. He was named to the 35 Under 35 Class for 2024 from the American Football Coaches Association.He spent 2 years in the NFL as a player with the Cardinals, Giants, and Patriots, and won a Super Bowl ring as a member of the New England Patriots in 2019. Howard spent 2021 and 2022 as a Southeast area scout for the Patriots. AJ is a husband, father, and follower of Jesus. AJ's socialsTwitter: COACHHOWARDUSCInstagram: ajhoward_appstatePurchase a copy of "The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition" today.Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website to get signed up to participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mike played four years at Duke from 1976-1980, was named the ACC Rookie of the year and also ACC Player of the Year. When he left Duke he was the career leader in points, rebounds, and blocked shots and his number 43 is retired. He was drafted in the first round of the 1980 NBA draft, 7th overall by the New Jersey Nets and throughout his 14-year NBA career also played for the 76ers, Hornets, and Bucks.After playing basketball, he's been a long-time analyst: for the Hornets, CBS Sports, Raycom Sports, and Fox Sports Net and currently with the CW's ACC coverage. He is a Peer Recovery Coach at Sana Recovery. He's joining us today to share about his journey with sobriety and how Jesus has changed his life.Topics include:What we can learn from the recovery communityThe NBA FinalsFinding freedom in ChristSurrendering to ChristTransparency and admitting to our strugglesThe NBA DraftDuke losing in the Final FourPurchase a copy of "The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition" today.Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website in order to get signed up to participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the next episode of our "Summer Interview Series," Bryce Johnson talks with Pro Football Hall of Famer Kevin Mawae. During the conversation, Kevin unpacks how the NFL has evolved over the past few decades, the steps to becoming a professional in the NFL, the importance of daily Bible reading and growing in faith alongside other believers, and how to involve your spouse in your faith life. For more information about Kevin's upcoming football camp, visit the Louisiana Line Camp website.Purchase a copy of "The Sports Devotional: Pro Football Edition" today.Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website in order to get signed up to participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of our "Summer Interview Series," Bryce Johnson talks with ESPN broadcaster Matt Schick. During the conversation, Matt unpacks his love for college baseball, how sports media coverage is adapting, the importance of preparation in our walk of faith, and being a faithful spiritual leader for your family. Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website in order to get signed up to participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carey answers your questions about whether there are limits to church growth, what to do if your elders try to micromanage you, and how to know who to fire and how to do it.

In the kickoff episode of our "Summer Interview Series", Bryce Johnson talks with Al Mead, gold medal-winning Paralympic champion. During the conversation, Al talks about how he responded to a traumatic childhood injury that forced him to lose his leg, the resiliency necessary to navigate life, how Upward Sports has been an effective tool in ministry, and life as a husband and "girl dad". Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit the Fantasy Football Fellowship website in order to get signed up to participate in our exciting and encouraging ministry.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks how NFL teams still have limited depth at certain positions…and how we can add depth to relationships and areas of our lives.Today's Questions:1. Why is it important that we cultivate deep relationships with other people in our lives?2. What does it practically look like to have depth in our relationship with God?3. How does being a deep thinker help you grow in your understanding of who God is and how you can please Him?Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit Fantasy Football Fellowship in order to find out more about our ministry that can help you bring meaning and purpose to your Fantasy league.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks the four Game 7s from the NBA and NHL…and how we can be encouraged not to procrastinate but to live with a Game 7 mentality.Today's Questions:1. What is the practical impact of regularly contemplating the brevity of life?2. How are our lives impacted by procrastinating and not having a sense of urgency?3. How is it possible for us to have peace and joy when we are dealing with difficult circumstances?Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit Fantasy Football Fellowship in order to find out more about our ministry that can help you bring meaning and purpose to your Fantasy league.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest Nate Salley unpack how the NFL Draft players are evaluated and viewed by others…and how we deal with the tension of other people's opinions of us.Watch the full podcast on the UNPACKIN' it YouTube channel!Check out Nate Salley's website!Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Ridge Thomas unpack how hope surrounding the NFL Draft disappears once it unfolds…and how we can remain hopeful regardless of our circumstances.Today's Questions:1. How can we learn to have hope no matter what circumstances we are facing?2. What is the connection between being grateful and living with hope?3. What are the potential dangers of anchoring your hope in anything other than Jesus?Watch the full podcast on the UNPACKIN' it YouTube channel!Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In many (if not most) of the growing churches that are reaching their communities, Church Answers hears a repeated theme in our consultations. These churches are growing through sports ministries. Thom interviews Kevin Drake, Executive Director of Upward Sports, to get a "behind the scenes" perspective of this incredible growing ministry. The post The Amazing Growth of Sports Ministries to Reach Communities with the Gospel: An Interview with Kevin Drake appeared first on Church Answers.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Evan Albertyn unpack how Rory rode a roller coaster to victory at the Masters…and how we embrace the roller coaster ride of life.Today's Questions:1. How can we learn to "embrace the process" as we navigate life?2. What potential traps should you watch out for when life seems to be going well?3. How does looking to the future help us stay steady in the present?Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit UNPACKIN' it to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how to reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Ed Uszynski unpack teams that squandered the lead in the Final Four and National Championship...and how it relates to being able to rally and mount a comeback in life. Ed is an author, speaker, and longtime Athletes in Action/CRU staff member.Today's Questions:1. How does the grace of God help fuel us to make a comeback when we have sinned?2. What roles do confession and repentance play in being able to come back from bad moments?3. How can we ensure that we are not squandering the gifts, abilities, and opportunities God has given us?Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit UNPACKIN' it to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Pre-order Ed Uszynski's new book, Away Game, on Amazon.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how to reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Brian Goins unpack the remaining Final Four teams…and how we can remain connected, tough, resilient, and steadfast.Today's Questions:1. Why is remaining in community essential to helping us to ultimately abide in Christ?2. What does it look like to be spiritually tough when we are going through tough times?3. How can we learn to be connected and resilient in our human relationships?Click here to listen to Brian Goins's podcast "Married with Benefits" on Spotify!Click here to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Trip Smith unpack how our desires influence our bracket choices and the decisions we make in life.Today's Questions:1. How to distinguish between godly desires, worldly desires, and fleshly desires?2. How can we seek after greater desires in a way that is healthy and God-honoring?3. How should we respond when we know that we are not desiring God the way that we should?Click here to sign up to participate in UNPACKIN' it's "Bracket Challenge" or to give a gift to support our ministry.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Matt Vanderbilt unpack how Duke has everything needed to win a Championship…and how we have everything needed for a victorious life as followers of Jesus.Today's Questions:1. What does it look like to live a victorious life in Christ?2. How are we both "complete" and "still in process" at the same time?3. How do trials help us to develop and mature in our faith?Click here to join the "UNPACKIN' it 100" and support our ongoing ministry efforts.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals and to be notified of how you can join the upcoming Bracket Challenge.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks not caring about the NFL combine…and how it parallels our attitude toward certain sins and spiritual practices.Today's Questions:1. What are the consequences of having an indifferent attitude toward certain sins?2. How should we view God's commandments in terms of how they impact our lives?3. Why is it important that we engage in all of the different spiritual disciplines God has given to us?Click here to join the "UNPACKIN' it 100" and support our ongoing ministry efforts.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks how college football and basketball, and the NFL, are looking to expand…and the best ways to experience increase in our lives.Today's Questions:1. How can we experience growth and expansion in areas that would glorify God?2. Are there areas of our lives where it would not be wise to look to grow and expand?3. How can manage our time wisely so that we end up focusing on the things that matter most?Click here to give a donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack Alabama and Auburn embracing the "AND" approach…and how we do the same regarding faith and works.Click here to give a donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Trip Smith unpack the Eagles adding the right players to their team…and how important it is to be surrounded by the right people in life.Today's Questions:1. How can our society and culture shape us to become isolated in an unhealthy way?2. How can you continue to commit to the community even when things don't appear to be going the way you had hoped?3. What are the dangers and drawbacks of failing to meaningfully connect in a healthy community?Click here to give a donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Check out the panel discussion from this year's Super Saturday Man Breakfast, hosted by UNPACKIN' it, that took place in Charlotte on February 1st, 2025. This year's panel included Rob Moore and Jeremy Kelley, who currently work for the Carolina Panthers. They talk about faith, football, and life with Bryce Johnson. It's an authentic, encouraging, and inspiring conversation.Bio: Jeremy KelleyHe played professionally in the NFL with the Colts, Broncos, and Bears and also spent time in the Canadian League and the Arena League. He played for 10 teams in four leagues over six seasons! He is currently the Director of Legends Affairs with the Panthers.Rob Moore:He was drafted first in the 1990 supplemental draft by the New York Jets and was selected to the NFL all-rookie team. He played with the Jets, Cardinals, and Broncos during his 12-year NFL career. He was an All-pro wide receiver in 1997. He is currently the Carolina Panthers wide receiver coach, heading into his second season.Click here to give a donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks Luka being traded to the Lakers and the concerns around his conditioning…and how that parallels the importance of being in good shape spiritually.Today's Questions:1. How can we assess which things might be weighing us down in our spiritual life?2. What steps can we take to grow in discipline and self-control?3. How are we dependent on the Holy Spirit in order to help us grow in self-control?Click here to give a donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks how the Chiefs are looking to three-peat, and the Eagles are returning to the Super Bowl in a rematch…and what in life is worth repeating and returning to.Today's Questions:1. What are some patterns and behaviors that we need to be in the habit of repeating in our lives?2. How can we best be prepared to stop repeating sinful behaviors as we follow Christ?3. What are the benefits of consistently practicing spiritual disciplines?Check out our website in order to register for this year's "Super Saturday Man Breakfast"Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we unpack the doubts we had about head coaches still in the playoffs...and how to respond to our own doubts when life is tough.Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports.Buy copies of Bryce Johnson's latest 30-day devotional, "The Sports Devotional". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NFL playoffs have begun and Bryce talks about the teams that have a chance to make a deep run. But what about in our own lives? Do we make consistent deep runs in our spiritual lives, or do we do just enough to only get bounced in the first round when things get tough... let's unpack it!Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports.Buy copies of Bryce Johnson's latest 30-day devotional, "The Sports Devotional". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology in our on-going series on the theology of worship is a continuation of last week because we had such an awesome time leaning into all that Scripture reveals Jesus to be, learning from each other's stories – especially the difficult chapters - and laughing that we simply had to have a part two of this conversation! Aren't you grateful that being serious about our faith and being serious about ourselves aren't synonymous? I thoroughly enjoy getting to spend time with people who are fully devoted to Jesus Christ but aren't full of themselves! And saints who feel free enough to laugh at themselves are my absolute favorite kind of people. Which aptly describes the girl gang we're hanging out with again today. Hope Darst, Tasha Layton, Hillary Scott and Rita Springer are too young to be called legends, but they have written and sung a multitude of songs that have shaped the musical landscape of worship. Between them they've won multiple Grammys and CMA's and Doves and KLove Fan Awards, and yet this foursome reeks humility. They are much like the Skinhorse in the story of the Velveteen Rabbit…life has worn them thin enough to recognize that whether they have a number one song or fall completely off the charts, Jesus is the only Hero of humanity's story and commercial success apart from intimacy with our Creator Redeemer is devoid of any real meaning. Mind you, as we continue to emphasize in this series, music is only one facet of how we worship as Christ followers – in fact, the Bible describes worship more as the posture of our hearts than the melody that falls out of our mouths. Which is why the theme of today's conversation is less about melodic tunes than it is about biblical truths. What does worship look like when we aren't singing or listening to Christian music? How do we maintain the posture of worshipping God when we're dealing with deep disappointment, disillusionment, or debilitating depression. Is it possible to have a broken heart and hands raised in praise at the same time? It's going to get raw and real today y'all, so please grab your Bible, a notebook, and some yummy snacks – I always find chocolate to be an excellent companion when taking raw and real adventures – and come give that great big, beautiful heart God placed in your chest some time and space to exhale on the porch with us. We're really, really glad you're here. Save on Dwell here Learn More about Upward Sports here

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, Alli and I are both bouncing with enthusiastic expectancy because we've gathered a phenomenal foursome of wise women whose hearts, minds, and ministries have been shaped by worship. Hope Darst has been leading worship – both in her home church and on stages around the world for decades, although unlike most artists she signed her first record deal at the age of 39 in 2019. Since then, she's penned several singles that have blessed millions of believers including Peace Be Still, Come Alive, and If the Lord Builds the House. Tasha Layton's vocational and life experience is crazy colorful – before coming to faith in Jesus Christ, she studied Buddhism and spent four years touring all over the world as a back-up vocalist for pop superstar Katy Perry. She's now a Christian music favorite and her latest single – Worship Through It – which is especially pertinent for today's conversation – was number one on the charts recently. Our third worship tutor today is Hillary Scott. If you're a country music fan, you're familiar with my dear friend Hillary because she's part of the platinum selling, multiple Grammy and CMA award-winning band, Lady A. What you might not know is that Hillary began her storied musical career as a worship leader and has never stopped using her pipes to point people to Jesus. Rounding out this fabulous foursome of guests on the porch today is Rita Springer. If you mention the name Rita Springer in the company of young worship leaders, it's likely one or two will involuntarily gasp because she's sort of like the Michael Jordan of worship leading. In addition to writing and recording songs for the church at large for the past 30+ years, Rita has also mentored hundreds of Christian artists and worship leaders around the world. Having Hope, Tasha, Hillary and Rita here together to dive into the theology of worship is the equivalent of having Muttiah Muralitharan and Richard Hadlee here to dive into the subject of bowling because they are two of the greatest professional bowlers the world has ever seen. Okay, maybe that wasn't the best analogy since bowling does seem to be more of a niche sport, but the bottom line is we've got a few of the most experienced and humble worship leaders of this generation gathered on the porch today to help us lean more fully into the embrace of Jesus, which is what shapes how we live and lead as Christ followers. I'm so excited about how God is going to reveal Himself to us today so please grab your Bible and your favorite beverage and your most comfortable chair and pull it up close to ours on the porch because believe me, you're going to want to hear every single word these saints share today. Save on Dwell here Learn More about Upward Sports here

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology is all about the contextual biblical scaffolding for a series we're calling the Theology of Worship. But lest you think we're going to be talking about the three or four songs before a sermon or our preferred style of music, let me assure you this conversation isn't just for people who can carry a tune or for those who know how to navigate their Apple music ap! Frankly, our tendency to associate worship solely with music is like limiting ourselves to one food group for every single meal for the rest of our lives – I love Tex Mex y'all, but if I had to eat chips and queso three times a day, every day, for the rest of my life it would be sadly and unnecessarily reductive! In the Christian context, worship is so much wider and deeper and more comprehensive than a song list or a musical genre. Case in point, listen to what one of our favorite theologians here at BPT – Dr. N.T. Wright – says about the centrality of worship: All kingdom work is rooted in worship. Or, to put it the other way around, worshipping the God we see at work in Jesus is the most politically charged act we can ever perform. Christian worship decares that Jesus is Lord and that therefore, by strong implication, nobody else is. What's more, it doesn't just declare it as something to be believed, like the fact that the sun is hot or the sea wet. It commits the worshipper to allegiance, to following this Jesus, to being shaped and directed by him. Worshipping the God we see in Jesus orients our whole being, our imagination, our will, our hopes, and our fears away from the world where Mars, Mammon, and Aphrodite (violence, money, and sex) make absolute demands and punish anyone who resists. It orients us instead to a world in which love is stronger than death, the poor are promised the kingdom, and chastity (whether married or single) reflects the holiness and faithfulness of God himself. Acclaiming Jesus as Lord plants a flag that supersedes the flags of our nations, however “free” or “democratic” they may be. In other words, WORSHIP is the fruit and fuel of our faith, the flagpole we rally around as those who've been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Worship is the very essence of our spiritual DNA. Just as a half dozen and six communicate the same number of eggs, to have faith in Jesus Christ and to be a worshipper should be synonymous. Worship isn't simply a verb for the musically inclined among us, it should be the passionate preoccupation of God's people. Okay, as you can tell we're pretty fired up today so you'd better grab a cup of something caffeinated and your Bible – unless you're listening to this while simultaneously trying to figure out how to increase the incline on the treadmill at the gym you just joined because you're determined to ditch the Spanx in 2025 – and come hang out on the porch with us for some genuine, digital community and hopefully some real encouragement. We're really grateful to get to spend this time hanging out with y'all. Save on Dwell hereLearn More about Upward Sports here

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. Today's Happy New Year conversation is akin to dancing with a 500-pound gorilla with balance issues because most of us are going to get our proverbial toes pinched! The reason why is we're going to get real about how our daily digital gluttony ~ from scrolling through social media, Googling down one rabbit trail after another, perusing the pretend aisles of Amazon Prime, and reconnecting with old high school flames who slid into our DMs ~ is making us heartsick. Multiple highly regarded scientific studies over the past few years have revealed that the excessive time most of us spend staring at our phone screens has a negative impact on our neuro-pathways, as well as our primary relationships. Plus, there's irrefutable proof now that adolescents' brains ~ which are still developing ~ become more sensitive when anticipating social rewards and punishments over time with increased social media usage. In other words, the measurable result of all those hours our kids are spending on TikTok and viewing reels, is a heightened sense of insecurity and self-doubt. Not installing boundaries on the amount of digital data we're consuming every day is the neurological and emotional equivalent of giving a hungry fox the key code to our chicken coup, y'all! So here's the deal ~ after hanging out with my pastor today, Dr. Darren Whitehead ~ who's an expert when it comes to the corrosive consequences of the constant digital barrage of modern culture ~ we're going to invite you to join us for a relatively brief digital detox here at the beginning of 2025 and learn how making our smart phones a little dumber will make our relationships with God and each other a whole lot richer! For some of you saints this single conversation has the potential to change the trajectory of '2025 and not only redeem huge chunks of time locusts have devoured in your life but quite possibly begin the closing the intimacy gap you've unwittingly allowed your phone to create between you and the people you love. So please grab a cup of coffee, your Bible, and a notebook or journal and pull your chair up on the porch with us for this caboose of 2024 conversation. Happy New Year ~ we're really happy you're here. Save on Dwell hereLearn More about Upward Sports here

Find out more about CH Ministries here During today's Christmas-is-here-y'all conversation on Back Porch Theology we're talking about the unlikely gift of waiting. Now if you're anything like me and you got the gift of waiting this season, your first reaction would be to hope it came with a receipt so you could return it! It's taken me a really long time – no pun intended – but I'm finally learning that when God authors a pause in my story, there's redemptive purpose in it. Ancient theologian and beloved pastor, Charles Spurgeon explained it much better than I can: If the Lord Jehovah makes us wait, let us do so with our whole hearts; for blessed are all they that wait for Him. He is worth waiting for. The waiting itself is beneficial to us: it tries faith, exercises patience, trains submission, and endears the blessing when it comes. The Lord's people have always been a waiting people. It may initially seem like wishful thinking, if not downright rude and intrusive, to emphasize slowness during the week of Christmas ~ which all too often is filled with more frenzy than figgy pudding, especially when those gifts we ordered on Amazon Prime still haven't shown up yet the relatives we didn't order do show up ~ but to quote a dear friend and beloved pastor from this modern era, Steven Furtick: “The only thing harder than waiting on God, is wishing that you had!” So please step away from the scissors and Scotch tape and wrapping paper, put the pot on simmer, dial the pace of the elliptical down to meander, and come exhale on the porch with Alli, Dr. Howard and me. We're grateful that hanging out with y'all has become part of our holiday tradition. Save on Dwell hereLearn More about Upward Sports here

Merry Christmas UNPACKIN' it Community of sports fans! Today Bryce and Trip go through some of their favorite Christmas movies, quotes, songs, as well as compare NFL fantasy players to certain Christmas movies!Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports.Buy copies of Bryce Johnson's latest 30-day devotional, "The Sports Devotional". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks how so many NFL teams are still hopeful about making the playoffs...and how we remain hopeful in life.Today's Questions:1. What is the difference between hope and optimism?2. How is it possible to have true hope even in the midst of difficult seasons of life?3. What role do God's promises have in our experience of hope?Visit UNPACKIN' it in order to sign up for our weekly email devotionals.Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports.Buy copies of Bryce Johnson's latest 30-day devotional, "The Sports Devotional". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Matt Vanderbilt unpack how fans are complaining and questioning the College Football Playoff committee…and how it parallels getting upset when things don't go how we think they should.Today's Questions:1. How can we learn to respond in a more trusting way when something unexpected happens in our life?2. Why and how should we turn to God when we feel frustrated about the way things are going in our life? 3. How can we get to a place where we embrace and love the fact that we are not in control?Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports.Buy copies of Bryce Johnson's latest 30-day devotional, "The Sports Devotional". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Tucker Furr unpack what sports fans are full of...and what our lives are full of right now.Today's Questions:1. In what ways do the things that we fill ourselves with end up shaping the person we become? 2. Why is one of the best ways to transform our lives simply by being still and enjoying our union with God?3. Why is it essential that we empty ourselves first so that we can be filled?Tucker's SocialsPersonal - @tucker_furr6Podcast - @formydawgs_utugaLearn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to discover how to reach people for Jesus through sports.Buy copies of Bryce Johnson's latest 30-day devotional, "The Sports Devotional".Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Sign up for our weekly email devotionals by filling out the form on our new website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks the difference between teams that win with wisdom and those who lose because of foolish mistakes…and how we can live wisely.Today's Questions:1. Where can we go to find true wisdom in our lives?2. How does having a proper fear of the Lord help lead us to wisdom?3. How is wisdom different from simply having knowledge?Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports.Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Sign up to receive our weekly email devotionals by filling out the form on our new website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Charlie Hagley unpack new coaches in college basketball building a winning culture…and how it relates to building a culture of winning as followers of Jesus.Today's Questions:1. What values does Jesus prioritize in His kingdom, and how can we live those out in our lives?2. In what ways does winning as a believer differ from the world's view on winning?3. What type of impact can embracing Jesus' "winning culture" have on those around us?Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports, to find out how you can reach people for Jesus through sports.Check out Upward Sports on social media: Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, LinkedInClick here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Sign up to receive our weekly email devotionals by filling out the form on our new website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks the questions being asked about NFL teams…and what to do with the questions we have in our own lives.Today's Questions:1. What should our mindset be when we come to God in prayer?2. Can we truly be confident that God will always give us the wisdom we need during difficult or confusing times?3. How does spending time in fellowship with God help to change the desires of our heart?Purchase copies of "The Sports Devotional" to gift to your friends and loved ones this Christmas.Click here to give a year-end donation to support UNPACKIN' it.Sign up to receive our weekly email devotionals by filling out the form on our new website.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks how running backs have experienced a resurgence…and considers what needs to be valued and made prominent in our lives.Today's Questions:1. What are some areas of our lives that we may have potentially devalued, causing us to need a resurgence?2. How does a willingness to be corrected directly connect with our ability to make meaningful changes?3. What things do we need to "hand off" to God in order for us to experience a true resurgence?Sign up to receive our weekly email devotionals by filling out the form on our new website.Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Brian Saylor unpack what NFL teams revealed in week 8…and consider what our lives reveal.Today's Questions:1. Why should we avoid the temptation to view the way that God feels about us through the lens of our experiences?2. What are some of the best ways that we can assess what is truly going on in our hearts?3. How should we respond when God reveals areas of sin in our lives?Check out UNPACKIN' it's newly-updated website to get more information about our ministry.Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, Bryce interviews current Wichita State men's basketball coach Paul Mills. Topics discussed in this episode include Coach Mills' second season with the Shockers, handling pressure as a basketball coach, the state of college basketball, the importance of reading Scripture, and how to steward your calling.Mills spent 14 years as a Baylor assistant under Scott Drew, and then took his first head coaching job at Oral Roberts, turning the Golden Eagles from Summit League bottom-dwellers to undefeated champions over a six-year span (2017-23) with NCAA tournament bids in two of the last three years. In 2021, Mills became the second coach to guide a No. 15 seed to Sweet 16, upsetting Ohio State and Florida in the first two rounds before losing a heartbreaker to Arkansas in the South Regional Semifinal.He is a husband and father of two daughters, and received his Master's Degree from Dallas Theological Seminary in 2020.To support UNPACKIN' it's upcoming golf tournament, please CLICK HERE.Subscribe to the UNPACKIN' it Podcast, the Fantasy Football Fellowship Podcast, and the UNPACK' it Minute Podcast wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, Bryce interviews Coach Joe Kennedy who has a new movie "Average Joe" out this weekend about his story. They talk the movie, the Supreme Court, and how important it is to have faith and prayer in your life. Coach Joe Kennedy, an eighteen-year Marine veteran, was an assistant coach for the Bremerton High School (BHS) varsity football team. Before he even coached his first game, the Marine-turned-football coach made a commitment to God that he would give thanks at the conclusion of each game for what the players had accomplished and for the opportunity to be part of their lives through football. This was met with disapproval from his school district and turned into a lengthy court battle. On June 27, 2022, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Coach Kennedy and his First Amendment right and on March 8, 2023, Coach Kennedy was officially reinstated as assistant coach and returned to the field for one game on September 1, 2023 before resigning. Joe and his wife, Denise, are parents to four and reside currently in Pensacola. His memoir, Average Joe, is available wherever books are sold and a film inspired by his life will be in theaters beginning October 11. He continues to speak across the country promoting freedom of speech. Connect with him online at https://coachjoekennedy.com/.FILM'S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA:Website: https://averagejoemovie.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AverageJoeMovie/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/averagejoemovie/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@averagejoemovieX (formerly twitter) - http://www.twitter.com/averagejoe_filmYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@AverageJoeTheMovieTo support UNPACKIN' it's upcoming golf tournament, please CLICK HERE.Subscribe to the UNPACKIN' it Podcast, the Fantasy Football Fellowship Podcast, and the UNPACK' it Minute Podcast wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Josh Livingston unpack yesterday's blowouts and lopsided defeats in the NFL...and discuss how we can be encouraged when we feel overwhelmed and outmatched in life.Today's Questions:1. What biblical truths can help you find strength and encouragement in hardships?2. How can self-reliance lead you to experience more feelings of defeat as you follow Jesus?3. How can you overcome your sins and mistakes to walk forward in God's grace?To support UNPACKIN' it's upcoming golf tournament, please CLICK HERE.Visit pureHOPE's website to learn more about Josh's ministry work.Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Ed Uszynski unpack the rash of injuries across the NFL and consider why they are happening…and how the situation parallels our struggles with temptation and sin.Today's Questions:1. What can we do in order to better avoid certain challenges and difficulties in life?2. Why do we experience the trials and tribulations that we do?3. Can we turn to Jesus for grace after we have sinned in a big way or have sinned for a long period of time?Click here for more information on Ed Uszyski and his published works.Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Subscribe to UNPACKIN' it's weekly email devotionals by signing up on our website.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Brian Goins unpack the enduring competitiveness of Troy Aikman...and how it relates to us finding contentment as we follow Jesus.Today's Questions:1. How can the traits that bring us success also be the same traits that lead us to a lack of contentment?2. How do we balance giving our best in all things with being content no matter how things turn out?3. What are some of the underlying roots that can lead us to discontentment?Learn more about Brian Goins and his podcast, Married With Benefits.Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Subscribe to UNPACKIN' it's weekly email devotionals by signing up on our website.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks how six 0-2 teams got a spark to win their first game of the year…and how we can experience a spiritual spark when we need one.Today's Questions:1. What practical steps can we take in order to get replenished in our faith life?2. How could our need for a spiritual spark be caused by idolatry?3. How is gratitude an essential component to experiencing a spiritual spark?Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Subscribe to UNPACKIN' it's weekly email devotionals by signing up on our website.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Dr. D.J. Horton and special guest Kevin Drake, the Executive Director of Upward Sports, as they discuss the first of ten leadership characteristics: The Lord is honored. Culture is going to happen in your organization, whether it's a business or a church, whether you want it to or not. You will have a culture. Learn more in this episode about how to create an intentional culture that honors the Lord over having an accidental one that may not. 

Today, Bryce unpacks how sports envy and jealousy affect sports fans…and how and why we must fight against envy in all areas of our lives.…Today's Questions:1. What is often at the root of the envy and jealousy that we experience?2. What other sins do we often fall into because we are dealing with unresolved envy?3. How do we practically go about getting rid of the envy and jealousy we experience as we follow Jesus?Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Subscribe to UNPACKIN' it's weekly email devotionals by signing up on our website.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson unpacks the patience needed for many of the teams that lost in the NFL…and how we must exercise patience in our lives.Today's Questions:1. How could the impatience we experience be a result of unreasonable expectations?2. Does being patient with others mean that we can never wisely distance ourselves from others? 3. How do we practically go about developing patience in our lives?Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Subscribe to UNPACKIN' it's weekly email devotionals by signing up on our website.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's special episode includes a recent sermon by Bryce Johnson called "Let's Go" that he gave at The Pointe Church in Belmont, NC. In it, he unpacks why we serve others, what it means to be on a team, and how God has designed us with unique gifts. He gives a different perspective on the story of David and Goliath, shares a story about his first time on the radio, and uses the sports parallel of being in the tunnel before taking the field. Be sure to check out fantasyfootballfellowship.com and become a member for free today!Subscribe to the Fantasy Football Fellowship Podcast on Spotify.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bryce Johnson and guest co-host Bob Schindler unpack the Harbaugh brothers approach to football…and how we must emphasize the fundamentals of the gospel in our approach to a Christ-centered life.Today's Questions:1. Why is it important for believers to regularly preach the gospel to themselves?2. What benefits come from us taking time to meditate on how sinful we truly are?3. How can embracing simplicity actually help us to better live life for Jesus?Check out Bob Schindler's ministry by visiting the website for CEDE SportsPlease consider purchasing Bob's book, Does God Care Who Wins? Sign up to participate in Fantasy Football Fellowship to bring purpose and meaning to your fantasy league.Subscribe to the Fantasy Football Fellowship Podcast on Spotify.Learn more about our sponsor, Upward Sports.Chapters0:00 Teaser0:32 Intro4:32 Bob Schindler4:44 John and Jim Harbaugh7:42 Ravens and Chargers9:09 Brotherly Rivalry10:43 Bryce and His Brothers 14:09 Understanding the Fundamentals of Football16:48 Team Over Individual Mindset20:24 What are the Fundamentals of the Faith?24:35 Playing Your Part in the Team26:41 Preach Yourself the Gospel Everyday28:27 Scripture 32:15 Reminding Ourselves of Our Brokenness39:39 Final Thoughts on the Harbaugh Brothers41:38 Outro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.