Don’t Waste Your Waiting

It was the late 1980’s and a talented NFL backup quarterback was at an emotional low. He’d been the number one draft pick in 1984, and was promised plenty of playing time, behind Joe Montana, the injured starting quarterback. However, the “Come Back Kid” made a miraculous recovery, and Steve Young was taking few snaps.

Dejected by what he felt was unfair and dishonest treatment, Steve flew to Salt Lake City, Utah to visit his brother. On the way home he found himself sitting next to Stephen R. Covey, a leadership authority, organizational consultant, and author of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. Mr. Covey recognized Young and asked how he was doing.

The defeated athlete poured out his heart, telling Covey about his struggle playing in the shadow of Montana, and how his talent was being wasted. He finished second in the Heisman trophy vote as a college player, and now sat warming the bench for the 49ers. The leadership scholar listened patiently and was empathetic, but then asked Steve a few questions.

“Does your team have supportive ownership?” “Oh, Yes,” answered Young. “Ed DeBartelo treats the players as partners. “Do you play for a great coach?” Young answered in the affirmative again, “Sure! Bill Walsh is a genius who created the West Coast offense.” Covey had one more question, “What about Joe Montana?” “Well, he’s sort of the problem,” said Steve. “We both want the same job.” “But can you ask Joe questions?” queried Covey, “Could he be your mentor?” The upstart quarterback nodded yes.

Finally the leader of leaders made his point:

Steve, I travel the world looking for successful organizations, and yours seems like the perfect platform to see how good you can get.

At this point, Young realized the hole he was stuck in was one he dug for himself. He wasn’t necessarily a victim, he simply needed to change his attitude and perspective.

---

Does Steve’s story remind you of the experiences of any Bible heroes? My mind went to Abraham, who went through many highs and lows on his journey to the promised land. As my pastor likes to say, hardship became Abraham’s “gym.” It was his platform to show how good God could be.

Yet he did not falter through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had the power to do what he had promised. Romans 4:20-21 (NIV)

Kind reader, are you preparing while you wait for your next step with God? Steve Young prepared while he waited to lead the 49ers, just like Abraham waited a long time in faith for his promised son. Both men used their struggles as a platform for growth, but in different ways.

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:6 (ESV)

Thank you for reading. ❤️🙏 prayers and love.