Rakeem Boyd is a special football player. A star high school running back from Houston, Boyd now plays for the University of Arkansas. In 2019, he had more than a thousand yards rushing. Because of rules changes in the last several years, he was eligible to declare for the NFL draft. Such a player can be set for life financially, signing a multi-million-dollar contract.

On Christmas Eve last year, Boyd announced he was returning to Arkansas. His decision stunned the team. Most juniors eligible to turn pro do so without hesitating.

One of the reasons he gave for returning was to help the team win.

You see, Rakeem Boyd is loyal. He put the needs of his team above a great personal opportunity.

John 14:6 says, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Loyalty here on Earth among humans is a great thing. The loyalty an athlete has for his teammates is admirable, even inspiring.

But it doesn’t compare to the loyalty Jesus Christ has for each of us. He could have stayed with the Father, but instead chose to come to us and stand in our place because of sin. His victory on the cross was the ultimate loyal play. And that loyalty is worth far more to us than riches in this life.

Have you chosen Jesus to take your place in the game of life? He will, and it will be the best decision you will ever make.

Let’s pray. Lord, your Son’s sacrifice for us stands for all time and shows us that His love is eternal. Amen.

Honor and glory to God is a message worth sharing! Shop our “Loyal To One” T-shirt in Charcoal, part of the new HOLD FAST collection, at Kerusso.com.