Spiritual Game Plan
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In Spiritual Game Plan, Graham Daniels and Jonny Reid show how to compete with both joy and godliness.
The book begins by laying out four reasons why God created sports: Creation, Community, Delight, and Glory. However, these good gifts are twisted by sin. We often use sports to glorify ourselves rather than God, seek ultimate joy in sports instead of in Him, elevate ourselves above others, and use our creativity for self-serving purposes.
How Christ Saves Sports
Christ changes everything about how we view and play sports. Through Him, we can become satisfied, humble, and servant-hearted athletes. The gospel reshapes not only how we perform but also why we play, offering deeper purpose and freeing us from the pressure of self-glorification.
Chapter 4 was especially moving to me. It emphasizes that our identity must be found in Christ, not in our sport. Success or failure on the field doesn’t affect the love we receive from our Heavenly Father. In him, we have nothing to prove.
Playing Fields Are Mission Fields
I was also inspired by how service and love can be shown through sports. Christians are called to be different in how they play, relate, and compete. The simple yet powerful model of “pray, play, say” stood out as a helpful way to integrate faith into sports naturally and intentionally.
For sports fans, the book reminds us that both arenas and living rooms are gospel spaces. Whether playing or watching, we can use these moments to witness. The playing field becomes a mission field when we invite others into our lives and share the hope we have in Christ.
Gospel-Centered Sports
Parents have a unique role in pointing their children to Jesus through sports involvement. Coaches, too, are in a strategic position to speak to their players’ competence, character, and conviction in a way that deeply shapes lives.
Filled with quotes from professional athletes, this book carries both credibility and clarity. It’s an excellent guide for parents, coaches, and youth pastors—perfect for those who love both God and the game.
I received a media copy of Spiritual Game Plan and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.