Today I am reviewing First and Goal by Jake Byrne.

Here is a brief synopsis:

Jake Byrne dreamed of playing professional football. He had the size, the talent, the drive…but at age fourteen, he found out he also had type 1 diabetes.

Still, Jake was determined to reach his goal. And God was determined to guide and empower him all along the way.

Jake’s journey to the NFL is the backdrop for this collection of inspiring devotions for teens based on more than 100 football terms.

Jake defines each phrase, shares a brief account of his life, includes Scripture, and then ties that all up in way that feels real and very encouraging.

You’ll discover…what to do when God calls an audible in your life how to respond when God puts you on special teams why prayer is more than a desperate hail Mary

These quick daily readings will help you press through your own difficulties and experience God’s dreams for you.

 
MY THOUGHTS:

Jake Byrne explains life — using football terms — in his debut book, First and Goal, and he does a superb job! He tells the good, the bad, and the in-between, with laughter and grace. His book is informative, encouraging, and an inspiration to everyone who reads it.

You don’t have to play — or even like — football, to enjoy Jake’s story. Full of truth and wisdom, and sprinkled with lots of scripture, Jake encourages all who read his story to live for God, giving all to Him and not feeling defeated during the rough times.

Although originally written for teen boys, anyone who reads Jake’s story will be blessed by his courage and tenacity. I especially like how it’s written more as a devotional — and I’m hoping that’s just the way many young teens will be encouraged to read it.

God bless you, Jake. Thank you for being a daily Christian example for all those who enjoy football, for sharing your ups and downs while living with Type 1 diabetes, and offering hope to anyone with battles to overcome.
 
FIRST AND GOAL by Jake Byrne… What football taught me about never giving up. – Tweet this!
 
Never give up on your dreams… FIRST AND GOAL by Jake Byrne – Tweet this!
 

God bless you!

Review © 2015 DJ Mynatt

Tagged: diabetes, DJ Mynatt, First and Goal, football terms, Harvest House Publishers, Holly Michael, Jake Byrne, Review © 2015 DJ Mynatt, type 1 diabetes