31+ Bible Verses about Football (with Related Verses)
Written By Amy Porterfield
Football is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity to experience teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Many athletes and fans look for Bible verses about football to inspire and guide them, both on and off the field. The Bible offers valuable lessons that apply to sports, emphasizing qualities such as strength, resilience, and unity. By incorporating faith into the game, we can draw strength from the Scriptures and approach each play with purpose,
Remembering that God’s wisdom can shape our attitudes, actions, and relationships with others. In this article, we will explore 31+ Bible verses about football along with related verses that highlight key aspects of the sport, such as hard work, dedication, and the importance of working together. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, these verses can offer spiritual insights to encourage you in your journey.
1 Corinthians 9:24 – Verses of Courage and Strength on the Field
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” – 1 Corinthians 9:24
Related Verses:
“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
“For the spirit of God gave us, does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” – Psalm 28:7
These Bible verses about football encourage athletes to compete with courage, strength, and faith, reminding them to give their all and rely on God for their energy and resilience.
Ecclesiastes 4:9 – Teamwork Inspired by Scripture
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9
Related Verses:
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” – Hebrews 10:24
This verse emphasizes the power of teamwork, an essential theme in Bible verses about football. It teaches that working together can bring greater success, just like a team’s combined efforts on the field.
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” – Hebrews 13:7
Related Verses:
“The greatest among you will be your servant.” – Matthew 23:11
“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” – John C. Maxwell (Inspiration aligned with the Bible)
For those in leadership roles in football, these Bible verses about football highlight the importance of leading by example and instilling faith in your team.
Galatians 6:9 – Endurance and Perseverance Through Faith
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
Related Verses:
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7
“Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58
Endurance is key in sports, and these Bible verses about football encourage athletes to persevere, trust in God’s timing, and remember that hard work and faith will lead to ultimate rewards.
Romans 8:37 – Victory and Triumph in God’s Word
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” – Romans 8:37
Related Verses:
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” – Psalm 27:1
“Thanks be to God, who gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57
“For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.” – 1 John 5:4
In football, victory is a result of both effort and faith. These Bible verses about football remind athletes that with God’s help, they are more than conquerors and can triumph in all circumstances.
Psalm 34:18 – Overcoming Defeat and Setbacks
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
Related Verses:
“Though he falls, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.” – Psalm 37:24
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8
In the world of sports, setbacks are inevitable. These Bible verses about football offer comfort for athletes facing defeat, reminding them that God is near to them during tough times and will provide strength for recovery and future success.
1 Timothy 4:12 – Biblical Guidance for Coaches and Mentors
“Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers as an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12
Related Verses:
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.” – Proverbs 12:26
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Coaches and mentors play a crucial role in guiding athletes. These Bible verses about football encourage coaches to lead by example, demonstrating qualities of faith, love, and integrity, all while fostering the development of young athletes.
Psalm 91:11 – Prayers for Safety and Protection During Games
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” – Psalm 91:11
Related Verses:
“The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.” – Psalm 34:7
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life.” – Psalm 121:7
In football, safety is paramount. These Bible verses about football remind athletes and their families that God’s protection is with them on and off the field, offering peace of mind as they play.
Philippians 2:3 – Sportsmanship and Fair Play Principles
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.” – Philippians 2:3
Related Verses:
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.” – Matthew 7:12
“Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation.” – Philippians 2:14-15
“Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:4
In the context of football, these Bible verses about football highlight the importance of sportsmanship. They encourage athletes to prioritize humility, respect, and fair play while playing, ensuring they treat their opponents with dignity and kindness.
James 2:18 – Faith in Action: Living the Gospel in Sports
“But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have work.’ Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” – James 2:18
Related Verses:
“Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” – James 2:17
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10
These Bible verses about football call for athletes to demonstrate their faith through their actions, both on and off the field. They remind players that their behavior, sportsmanship, and efforts should reflect Christ’s love and teachings.
Proverbs 12:25 – Handling Pressure and Stress with Biblical Wisdom
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” – Proverbs 12:25
Related Verses:
“Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
Handling the pressures of sports and life can be challenging. These Bible verses about football emphasize that turning to God can ease anxiety, providing athletes with peace and strength through His words of encouragement.
1 Corinthians 9:27 – Scriptures for Training and Discipline
“But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” – 1 Corinthians 9:27
Related Verses:
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” – 1 Timothy 4:8
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” – 1 Corinthians 9:24
“Train yourself to be godly.” – 1 Timothy 4:7
Discipline is vital for athletes, and these Bible verses about football encourage players to train both physically and spiritually. They highlight the importance of self-control, focus, and dedication in pursuing athletic goals.
Psalm 147:3 – Hope and Encouragement for Injured Players
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Related Verses:
“But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord.” – Jeremiah 30:17
“The Lord sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness you restore him to full health.” – Psalm 41:3
“For I will restore the fortunes of the land as they were at first, says the Lord.” – Jeremiah 33:11
Injuries can be a setback for athletes, but these Bible verses about football remind players that God is a healer and will restore both physical and emotional well-being, providing hope and strength during recovery.
Ephesians 4:3 – Unity and Brotherhood Among Teammates
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” – Ephesians 4:3
Related Verses:
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” – Psalm 133:1
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” – Romans 14:19
Sports require teamwork, and these Bible verses about football encourage athletes to work in harmony with their teammates. Unity, peace, and mutual support are essential for success on and off the field.
Colossians 3:23 – Biblical Motivation for Practice and Improvement
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” – Colossians 3:23
Related Verses:
“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:17
These Bible verses about football encourage athletes to work hard and put their best effort into everything, viewing their training and performance as a service to God. Practicing with diligence is a form of worship.
Psalm 118:24 – Celebration and Joy Through Christ
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24
Related Verses:
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” – Philippians 4:4
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.” – Psalm 100:1
In the midst of competition, this Bible verse about football reminds athletes to find joy in each day, appreciating the gift of life and the ability to play. Celebrating God’s blessings brings strength and perspective.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 – Resilience and Recovery: Spiritual Insights
“We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Related Verses:
“But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” – Matthew 24:13
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” – Romans 8:18
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12
In sports, resilience is crucial, and these Bible verses about football offer strength and encouragement for athletes facing tough moments. No matter how difficult the journey, God provides the endurance and hope needed for recovery.
Proverbs 15:33 – The Role of Humility in Athletic Success
“The fear of the Lord is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor.” – Proverbs 15:33
Related Verses:
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10
“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” – Luke 14:11
“The Lord detests the proud; they will surely be punished.” – Proverbs 16:5
Humility is an essential trait for success in sports, as these Bible verses about football remind athletes. It teaches them that true greatness comes from humility, honoring God and valuing others above oneself.
Isaiah 26:3 – Scriptures for Game Day Focus and Meditation
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind stays on you, because he trusts in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Related Verses:
“I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” – Psalm 119:15
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
For athletes preparing for game day, these Bible verses about football encourage focusing on God’s peace and trusting in His guidance. Centering the mind on God leads to calmness and clarity under pressure.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 – Thankfulness and Gratitude in Athletic Achievements
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Related Verses:
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” – Psalm 150:6
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34
“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” – Psalm 34:1
These Bible verses about football encourage athletes to maintain an attitude of gratitude in all circumstances. Thankfulness for the opportunity to play, compete, and grow reflects a heart that honors God.
Proverbs 15:18 – Dealing with Competition and Rivalry Biblically
“A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.” – Proverbs 15:18
Related Verses:
“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” – Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” – Ephesians 4:31
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” – Matthew 5:44
Competition in sports can often fuel rivalry, but these Bible verses about football teach us how to handle conflicts and competition with grace. They remind us to approach rivalry with patience, humility, and self-control, letting go of anger and seeking peaceful solutions.
1 Peter 4:10 – Faithful Stewardship of Athletic Talents
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” – 1 Peter 4:10
Related Verses:
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” – 1 Corinthians 9:24
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” – Colossians 3:23
In sports, athletes are entrusted with their abilities, and these Bible verses about football highlight the importance of using our God-given talents to serve others, both on and off the field. By being good stewards of these gifts, athletes honor God in their pursuit of excellence.
James 1:5 – Wisdom and Discernment for Game Decisions
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5
Related Verses:
“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it costs all you have, get understanding.” – Proverbs 4:7
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” – James 1:5
In sports, decisions made on the field require discernment and wisdom. These Bible verses about football encourage athletes and coaches to seek God’s wisdom in every decision, trusting that God will provide the clarity needed for success.
Hebrews 12:1 – Building a Legacy and Witnessing Through Sports
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” – Hebrews 12:1
Related Verses:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7
“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” – Hebrews 12:1
“You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth?” – Galatians 5:7
Sports are a platform for building a legacy and witnessing to others. These Bible verses about football encourage athletes to run the race of life with endurance, laying aside distractions and sin, while building a testimony that honors God.
Philippians 3:12-14 – Spiritual Growth and Personal Development in Athletics
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.” – Philippians 3:12-14
Related Verses:
“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.” – Philippians 3:13
“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14
“Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:13-14
These Bible verses about football emphasize the importance of spiritual growth and personal development in the athletic journey. Athletes should strive toward excellence not just in sports, but in their walk with God, always seeking to grow, improve, and press on toward the higher calling.
FAQ’s
What does Jesus say about sports?
While Jesus doesn’t mention sports directly, his teachings on perseverance, discipline, and teamwork can be applied to athletic pursuits, such as those found in Bible verses about football.
What 3 sports are mentioned in the Bible?
The Bible does not specifically mention modern sports, but references to running, boxing, and chariot racing are made, which can be related to physical activities like those found in Bible verses about football.
What Bible verse relates to soccer?
While no specific verse mentions soccer, verses like 1 Corinthians 9:24, encouraging discipline and running with purpose, can inspire athletes, including those playing soccer, as seen in Bible verses about football.
What did the Bible say about football?
The Bible doesn’t mention football specifically, but verses about endurance, strength, and teamwork, like those found in Bible verses about football, provide valuable principles for athletes.
Who is the holy sport?
The Bible doesn’t mention a “holy sport,” but sports, including football, can honor God when played with integrity, teamwork, and perseverance, as reflected in Bible verses about football.
Conclusion
Bible verses about football provide essential guidance for athletes, coaches, and fans alike. They remind us of the values of perseverance, teamwork, and faith, which are vital both on and off the field. These scriptures encourage individuals to stay grounded, overcome challenges, and focus on their spiritual growth, no matter the obstacles they face. They also emphasize the importance of playing with integrity and maintaining a positive mindset.
Through reflecting on Bible verses about football, athletes can find strength, inspiration, and guidance. Whether overcoming defeat, handling pressure, or striving for success, these verses offer encouragement and clarity. They help individuals align their athletic pursuits with their faith, fostering a sense of purpose and character. Ultimately, the Bible’s teachings can enhance both personal and athletic development, allowing individuals to excel in the game and in life.
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