“Speak Your Faith, You Never Know Who’s Ready to Listen”

The NFL may not close its doors on Sundays, but it’s not just about the game — it’s about something greater. While most Americans are in church or enjoying a lazy Sunday morning, NFL players are preparing for their battle on the gridiron. Yet, amid the cheers, touchdowns, and headlines, many athletes are also taking bold steps to proclaim their faith. The field of play may be their stage, but their message extends far beyond the end zone.

The Intersection of Faith and Football: A Personal Journey
When I was drafted in the second round by the Chicago Bears in 2008, my world changed. What was supposed to be a routine debut turned into an unforgettable moment on national television. It wasn’t just any game — it was Sunday Night Football. The bright lights of Lucas Oil Stadium shone down as my Bears faced off against Peyton Manning and the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Indianapolis Colts. The adrenaline coursing through my veins was unmatched, but in the middle of that chaos, I felt a stillness — a sense of purpose.

After we claimed victory, 29-13, with a career-high 123 rushing yards, including a 50-yard touchdown, I was overwhelmed with media attention. The questions came fast: “How did you do it?” “What was going through your mind during that touchdown?” I could have credited my coaches, my teammates, or even my personal training, but instead, I pointed to the one who gave me the strength to succeed: Jesus Christ.

That moment on live television wasn’t just about football. It became a platform to share my faith with millions. And the ripple effects of that message would soon become clear.

A Letter that Changed Everything
A few months after my post-game testimony, my parents received a letter from a young fan. He had been watching the game and heard me speak about my faith. This was the moment that changed everything for me. The letter described how that moment had inspired him to sneak out to church with a friend. Over time, his family joined him, and they all came to Christ.

That letter, more than any rushing record or trophy, meant the world to me. I realized how powerful our platforms can be — and how God was using me to bring others closer to Him. It was a humbling reminder that no matter how high the stakes, we’re called to speak His name whenever the opportunity arises.

The Power of Today’s Athletes: A Voice for Christ
Today’s athletes have a reach unlike anything we could have imagined just a few decades ago. With hundreds of thousands, sometimes millions, of social media followers, athletes can speak directly to fans around the globe. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and podcasts allow players to take their message of faith beyond the stadium and into homes, schools, and workplaces.

Athletes like CJ Stroud, Kirk Cousins, and Demario Davis are using their platforms not just to talk about football but to boldly declare their faith in Christ. It’s an encouraging sight — knowing the ripple effect their testimonies can have. As athletes, we are fortunate to have a unique platform, but this message isn’t just for us. It’s for everyone.

Faith Isn’t Just for the Famous: The Call to Proclaim
Sure, athletes like me may reach millions, but I believe the same principle applies to everyone. Every Christian has a platform. Whether it’s in the classroom, at the office, or with family and friends, we are all called to proclaim Christ. The question is: are we seizing those moments?

Just as my rookie season opened a door to share my faith with the world, each of us has opportunities — big or small — to speak about the life-changing impact Christ has had on us. Whether we reach one person or one thousand, it’s a step toward bringing them closer to Jesus.

A Greater Purpose Beyond Football
After 10 seasons in the NFL, I walked away from the game, but I didn’t walk away from my mission. I became an entrepreneur, an author, and the founder of the What’s Your Forte Foundation — a non-profit dedicated to preventing gun violence and supporting youth and families. As I continued my work off the field, I made sure to remain an outspoken voice for Christ. I now host the Sports Spectrum Podcast, where we highlight athletes who use their platform to glorify God.

Football may have been the arena where my journey began, but my true purpose remains centered in faith. I am constantly reminded that, like every Christian, my platform — whatever it may be — is an opportunity to shine a light on Christ.

The Ripple Effect of Faith
Whether on a football field or at the local coffee shop, we all have a platform. And as athletes, influencers, or everyday individuals, we’re called to share Christ — not just when the spotlight is on us, but whenever the opportunity arises. The impact of that testimony can ripple across the world, changing lives and leading others to faith.

It’s time to ask yourself: Will you use your platform to proclaim Christ? Because the world needs to hear the name of Jesus now more than ever.

Matt Forte is a former NFL player, entrepreneur, author, and the founder of the What’s Your Forte Foundation. He is a passionate advocate for faith, youth, and community, and is the host of the Sports Spectrum Podcast, which covers the intersection of sports and faith.