I thought quoting a Bible verse would help me perform better.

I’m Brian Smith and as a cross-country athlete at Wake Forest University in the early 2000s, I recited the same Bible verse before every cross-country race thinking it would help me reach my goals. The truth is, I never fully understood what God wanted from me when it came to applying my faith to my sport. Praying before the competition seemed like a good start.

But what else did God want from and for me? I knew there had to be more.

Since 2008 I’ve worked with Athletes in Action, an international sports organization dedicated to helping athletes integrate their Christian faith with their sport. I’ve wrestled with this topic, guided college athletes, and written widely, including multiple published books, including The Christian Athlete: Glorifying God in Sports and Away Game: A Christian Parent’s Guide to Navigating Youth Sports. I have an MA in Theology and Sports Studies from Baylor’s Truett Seminary. My life’s passion is helping athletes, coaches, and parents live biblically at the intersection of faith and sport.

Now, does the Bible talk about sports? Very little, actually. But it does tell a story about God redeeming His people through the life, death, and resurrection of His Son. And when we interact with the story of God, we learn about…God. We learn what He likes and dislikes. We learn how He wants us to live and love. We learn about what brings Him glory. That’s where the fun begins. Because when we know what glorifies God, we can begin to be creative in how we express that within the unique context of sports.

Over the last two decades, I’ve had the opportunity to encourage and equip thousands of athletes, coaches, parents and ministry leaders across the country. Whether you’re an Athletic Director, Coach/Athlete, Parent or Pastor, I’d love to connect to find ways to serve you.

For booking requests use the booking button or call me directly at 608-469-7983 or email me directly at Brian@thechristianathlete.com