Spiritual Game Plan

Shane Williamson

This is an amazing book. Spiritual Game Plan is the most important work to date connecting the most followed name—Jesus—the most read book—the Bible—and the most-participated-in passion in history—sports! It is easy and relatable and will enable you to understand the purpose for which sport was created, offering you as a healthy perspective on what sport could and should mean to you. It is so motivating to know how sports lead us and those we care for to know, be like, and be with Jesus!

David Moyes

Graham is someone I trust and someone who has had a great impact on my life and the lives of many others. I’ve spoken to him on many occasions when I’ve had to make difficult decisions in my career. He makes time for people, and I think that’s because of his faith. 

“Unique and Helpful”

I am not athletically gifted in the slightest, but this book piqued my interest, because I had never before seen a Christian living book that focused on sports. There are plenty of Christian books that use sports as a metaphor, or which share inspiring stories about Christian athletes, but this one focuses on what it means for Christians to play sports to the glory of God. The authors, Graham Daniels and Jonny Reid, reflect on how sports fit into a Christian understanding of creation, the fall, and redemption, and they address common questions and issues that Christians face when playing sports.

As the authors express, many athletes never receive any guidance for how they can glorify God in their sports-related jobs or passions, beyond receiving a stamp of approval from the church if they use sports as a mission field. This book takes a much broader look at the value of sports and competition, and shares wise advice for dealing with common pitfalls. There is also a thoughtful and nuanced chapter about the question of sports schedules that conflict with Sunday morning worship.

"Spiritual Game Plan" is thought-provoking and inspiring. This book is a quick, easy read, and it is full of helpful insights and encouragement for athletes at all levels. All throughout, the authors include quotes and stories from professional athletes, and I appreciated the range of different sports represented, as well as the balanced representation of male and female athletes. This book will be beneficial for other professional athletes, and for adults and teens who enjoy pursuing sports as a passion. This book will also benefit parents and coaches.

I received a free copy from the publisher, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

“Gospel-Centered Sports”

In Spiritual Game Plan, Graham Daniels and Jonny Reid show how to compete with both joy and godliness.

The book begins by laying out four reasons why God created sports: Creation, Community, Delight, and Glory. However, these good gifts are twisted by sin. We often use sports to glorify ourselves rather than God, seek ultimate joy in sports instead of in Him, elevate ourselves above others, and use our creativity for self-serving purposes.


How Christ Saves Sports

Christ changes everything about how we view and play sports. Through Him, we can become satisfied, humble, and servant-hearted athletes. The gospel reshapes not only how we perform but also why we play, offering deeper purpose and freeing us from the pressure of self-glorification.

Playing Fields Are Mission Fields

For sports fans, the book reminds us that both arenas and living rooms are gospel spaces. Whether playing or watching, we can use these moments to witness. The playing field becomes a mission field when we invite others into our lives and share the hope we have in Christ.

Gospel-Centered Sports

Parents have a unique role in pointing their children to Jesus through sports involvement. Coaches, too, are in a strategic position to speak to their players’ competence, character, and conviction in a way that deeply shapes lives.

Filled with quotes from professional athletes, this book carries both credibility and clarity. It’s an excellent guide for parents, coaches, and youth pastors—perfect for those who love both God and the game.

I received a media copy of Spiritual Game Plan and this is my honest review.