Paul E. Thomas III    
Defensive End, Tennessee State University

List your chosen attribute: Meekness

Dictionary definition: “The feeling of patient submissive humbleness”

Favorite quote from other people about meekness: “My mother used to say, ‘Paul, humble (meekness) is always the way.’”

Favorite Biblical passage that deals with meekness: “When Christ was in the wilderness being tempted of the devil.” (Matthew 4)

Why I chose that particular passage: “I chose this passage because even though Christ had the power and ability to turn the stones into bread or even to show off, He didn’t. He chose the more humble, meek road. Some people mistake meekness for weakness, but it actually shows how much strength you have.”

Application/example of meekness in my life: “My mother always told me to take the lower road, and I’ve seen why she has had to preach that to me. One major test in my life came when the Lord asked me to forgive my father for not being in my life. I could have continued on through life with bitterness and anger in my heart, but I had to show humility and forgiveness, just as Christ forgave me. Ever since I did just that, my father and I—earthly and heavenly—have had intimate and beautiful relationships.”

How I apply meekness to sports:
“The Lord has really blessed me in my life, specifically in athletics. People are always asking me how I do the things I do in my sport. I could easily claim all the glory, but I know that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I can do nothing by myself.”

Thomas, #59, sacks Alabama A&M's quarterback.

About the Athlete:

Before his first football game at Tennessee State University, Paul Thomas met with Nashville’s urban FCA director, Lee Brown. Brown took Thomas “under his wing,” and helped develop him into a campus FCA leader. Thomas served as vice president of the TSU Huddle during his junior year, and served as president during his senior year.

After playing three sports in high school, Thomas concentrated on football in college. He played two years at Trinity Valley Community College in Athens, Texas, before transferring to Tennessee State, where he finished out his career at defensive end for the Tigers.