Football players and coaches have a platform. Maybe that seems obvious, but I ‘m talking more than the platform created by their high-profile media coverage. They are also husbands, fathers, friends, teammates, members of communities and churches and more. They all have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. And they have all had experiences that prepare them to influence people for good. In other words, aside from their place in the public eye, they are a like everyone else.

I think it’s important for everyone to be aware of the platforms they have in their lives and to understand them as God-given opportunities. In fact, that’s one of the best ways to view the trials and hardships we experience. Losing a son gave me a platform I never would have sought, but that loss has given me opportunities to comfort and encourage others who are going through painful times.

It's true that my job has always given more opportunities to do that than many other people have, but the bottom line is that I’m a coach, a husband, a father, a coworker, a church member, and a guy who has experienced grief and loss. My roles are my platforms, just as your roles are your platforms.

These opportunities are given by God, and with His strength and guidance we can use them for His purposes. He will bring people into our lives who need the wisdom that comes from what we have experienced. He will guide us into situations that allow us to influence people going through difficulties or needing some particular insight into their situations. He will even express His own character and attitudes through us – His love, comfort, encouragement, forgiveness, patience, and more – if we choose to let Him. Our platforms are given by His design.

All of us have a choice whether to be takers or givers. Takers are concerned more with receiving value from others’ lives than adding value to them. But giving is more rewarding and actually adds to our lives as well. Use your platforms to give to others and impact lives in a way no one else can.

UNCOMMON KEY > The platforms we have are not for our benefit but for the benefit of others. If we’re watching, we’ll see God providing opportunities to use them powerfully and effectively.