At least two speakers talked about God tonight – the last night of the two conventions.
“It’s my hope the Republican Party, with the selection of John McCain and Sarah Palin, will be a part of a return to God’s word that will lead America to a spiritual revival so that God can truly bless America.” Joe Gibbs, who recently retired as the Washington Redskins coach.
Earlier in his speech, Gibbs said,
Think about this, then. If you and I are playing the game of life, God’s our head coach. Would he put us here without a game plan? Absolutely not. He’s done that, and down through history when we followed God’s game plan, his Bible, his Word, it leads to success for both individuals and – (cheers, applause) – for both individuals and countries.
Now, my life is a personal example. I’m a testimony. When I veered away from God’s game plan and became a foolish person, I suffered the results. It led to a financial disaster, a vocational struggle, and a serious health issue.
But yet, then again, when I followed God’s game plan, His word, this average person, with that game plan, was able to have some of the greatest experiences in the world.
Pat and I right now have a great family with eight grandkids. (Cheers, applause.) We also have been able to enjoy Super Bowls and NASCAR championships. (Cheers, applause.) Right game plan leads to what? Success. Bad game plan, falling away from God’s word, leads to disaster. I’m a personal testimony to that.
Now, this – this convention has created and crafted the political game plan for our leaders and our country. What great issues we’re tackling. Wouldn’t it be great going forward in the future, when we’re discussing some of these great issues, wouldn’t it be great to have someone say, “I wonder what God would think about this?” (Cheers, applause.)
After all – after all, when you think about it, God sent his son to this Earth. He selected some very average people. He crafted the greatest game plan of all time that continues to this day to change the world.
And then American decathlete and 2008 gold medalist Bryan Clay:
My priorities are: God first, family second, and track third. I can tell you that without my faith – in God, the support of my family and friends, and my strong work ethic – I would not be standing before you today with a Gold medal hanging around my neck.
My coaches, mentors, and most importantly, God and my family are a big part of my success, on and off the field.
… [W]hether your platform is a classroom, a conference room, a track or the White House, we all must stay true to our principles.
Correction: The remarks posted earlier were pulled from a prepared transcript.
