In this episode of Stories of His Glory, Ryne Jungling sits down with FCA Area Representative and UND football chaplain Tate Tobiason to talk about the unexpected journey God used to lead him into ministry.

Tate grew up dreaming about football and eventually discovered a passion for strength and conditioning that led him to the University of Nebraska. But while pursuing a career in collegiate strength coaching, God began opening and closing doors that would ultimately lead Tate somewhere he never expected: FCA.

From being rejected by the Nebraska drumline to working in college athletics, from making just $12 an hour to wrestling with whether to pursue opportunities elsewhere, Tate shares how God used people, mentors, closed doors, and seemingly ordinary circumstances to redirect his plans.

Tate also shares what ministry looks like at the University of North Dakota—from weekly FCA huddles and one-on-one discipleship to serving as the football chaplain and simply being present with athletes. His story is a powerful reminder that discipleship isn't necessarily about reaching everyone. Sometimes it's about investing deeply in a few people and trusting God to multiply the impact.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• Growing up with a passion for Nebraska football
• Discovering strength and conditioning
• The competitive side of drumline, powerlifting and pole vault
• Finding his calling in strength and conditioning
• How God used mentors like Tate's father and Coach Ron Brown
• The unexpected connection that brought Tate into FCA
• Wrestling with God's direction and career opportunities
• Learning to trust God when doors close
• Tate's journey into support raising
• The importance of spiritual mentors
• Ministry of presence
• Serving as the UND football chaplain
• Connecting athletes to the local church
• Why FCA is a conduit to the church rather than a replacement for it
• God's ability to use our passions and experiences for His purposes
• What it means to surrender our plans to God's plans

Verse of the Day:

“The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” - Proverbs 16:9

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Resources:

💪 Learn more about FCA in North Dakota: https://www.fcand.org

🙌 Support the mission: https://fcand.org/donate

☕ Thanks to our sponsor: Copper Dog Waffles & Coffee – Mandan, ND

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