In 1928, Notre Dame’s Head Coach Knute Rockne gave his famous rallying words, “Win one for the Gipper,” motivating his players to leave it all on the field. It had its effect. Notre Dame won over a very tough Army team 12-6 in the final minutes on a touchdown pass from Butch Niemiec to Johnny O’Brien.
A few years before, George Gipp had been a very quiet and unassuming player as a triple threat (runner, passer, and kicker) for Notre Dame. He had great confidence and inspired others with his dedicated efforts. Rockne later recalled, “I learned very early to place full confidence in his self-confidence.” Had there been a Heisman Trophy that year, most coaches felt George Gipp would have received it.
In 1920 Notre Dame finished its season with a 25-0 victory over Michigan State, but their dedicated Gipp was in the college infirmary at South Bend with a life-threatening infection. Antibiotics had not yet been developed, and Gipp’s condition was worsening by the hour. In the last few hours before his passing, Coach Rockne made one of his daily visits to see Gipp. The lanky collegiate All-Star looked into his coach’s eyes and said, “Someday in a tough game, ask the players to win one for the Gipper.”
For eight years Rockne considered the proper time to encourage his players with the deathbed words of this dedicated athlete. Many on the 1928 Notre Dame team knew of George Gipp and had been in grammar school with the legendary running back. The motivation and inspiration of the famous locker room words helped guide Notre Dame to a victory and into the hearts of millions of future fans.
We all need inspiration like that from time to time. When God commissioned Joshua to take over leadership of Israel in Moses’ stead, He told Joshua repeatedly, “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) But those words were not just for Joshua’s benefit. Paul explained, “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4) And even beyond that encouragement, the Lord continues to inspire and encourage us: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13 ESV) “And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
Scripture Reading: 1 Timothy 4:11-16
Personal Application: In what situation or particular area of your life do you need to be strong right now? Receive and act on the assurance and encouragement that the Lord offers you. Be strong and courageous, don’t be afraid. The Lord is with you!
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5