"It does not matter how many times you get knocked down, but how many times you get up." Vince Lombardi
This season Peyton Manning has showed why he is one of the greatest QB's to ever play the game. After being written off after suffering a neck injury and missing the entire 2011 season, Manning has regained MVP form and currently has his team back on the biggest stage. I must admit that although my team is not in the Super Bowl, I have been mystified by Manning this season. His incredible journey teaches us a couple of vital lessons about bouncing back.
First, his story illuminates the idea that having painful experiences doesn’t have to paralyze our productivity. After suffering the neck injury, many questioned his ability to ever play football again. However, even at the age of 37, Manning set numerous records this season including; most passing yards, and most passing TD’s in a season. What a lesson for those currently dealing with the side effects of pain from the past. Maybe it’s the pain of losing someone or something that was dear. Maybe it’s the pain from someone that let you down. Whatever it may be, always remember that the God we serve is able to use the pain that should disable us to instead develop us for greater productivity!
Secondly, his story illustrates that sometimes let downs can become set ups! Manning helped the Indianapolis Colts become one of the most successful NFL franchises, even leading them to a Super Bowl in 2006. However, after his injury, Peyton was thrown under the bus by his former team. Have you ever experienced a letdown that knocked you down robbing you of vim, vigor, and vitality? This can be difficult especially when you're hurt by someone you've helped. But Manning shows us that even when one team thinks you’re finished, you can find another team that believes you still have a future! We would not even be talking about the Broncos in the Super Bowl had they not picked Manning up as a free agent in 2012. Just goes to show for every Colt that lets you down there is a Bronco ready to give you a ride! Let me ask you a question: Where would you be today had you not gotten knocked down on yesterday? I’m with Marvin Sapp, I’m stronger, wiser, and better not in spite of my let downs but because of my let downs!
Lastly, Manning‘s story indicates that champions are made not born. Although Peyton has a famous football father, Archie Manning, his performance on the field can be attributed to a couple of factors. Manning is meticulous when comes to mental preparation. Few players are willing to invest the amount of time and attention to detail as Manning does. In essence he is willing to put the work in. Is winning, in your family, on the job, in the ministry, worth putting in the work? Interestingly beyond the commitment that Manning displays on the field, his commitment to his faith has helped him become the consummate professional athlete. Manning has opened up about this and says faith has been number one since he was 13 years old, when he first made a commitment to Christ. For him, football has always been number four behind his faith, family, and friends. If you were to prioritize your life right now, where would your faith fall?
Regardless of who wins on Sunday, Peyton Manning has proven this season that he has bounced back to a championship level. My friend, our God is also able to help you bounce back from life’s setbacks.
My prayer for you today is that God will enable you to bounce back from your setbacks!
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