Jeff Hartings from the Pittsburgh Steelers shares how he sought God to help him deal with the extreme pressure to perform on the field.

My signing bonus was like a dream come true! “Now I can buy anything,” I thought. However, after three seasons in the NFL, I discovered money couldn’t purchase peace for my heart. The pressure to perform on the field was turning me into a miserable, self-absorbed husband who feared failing as an athlete.

I was invited to a players’ Bible study and chapel. What I heard changed my life forever! Finally, my search for peace ended when I humbled myself and asked Jesus Christ to forgive me of all my sins. Ultimately, He paid a debt (death) I couldn’t afford (Romans 6:23). Now I play for His glory, which removes the pressure to perform for people.

Written by Jeff Hartings, Center for the Pittsburgh Steelers