Why I Stand
A NATIONAL BESTSELLERWSJ BestsellerUSA Today Bestseller
Publishers Weekly Bestseller
Facing public criticism, peer hostility, and widespread disapproval, would you compromise your principles to blend in with the crowd, or would you stand for what you believe?
On July 31, 2020, the Orlando Magic starting forward Jonathan Isaac was the lone NBA player not to kneel for the national anthem amid a league-wide demonstration in support of Black Lives Matter. Standing alone, knowing the scrutiny to come, Jonathan had a peace he at one time never could have imagined possible.
In Why I Stand, Jonathan shares the journey of how—through a series of divine connections and a willingness to follow Christ—his fear and insecurity-driven life was transformed into one of confidence and purpose. From his childhood in the Bronx to his high school years in Florida, from rail-skinny freshman at FSU to top draft pick in the NBA, Jonathan uses his life story to illuminate the freedom and peace found in the love of Jesus Christ.
More than the story of an NBA player’s transformation from man on the court to man of God, Why I Stand is a testament to His love, power, and grace that extends to us all. This book is a discovery that no matter your level of confidence today, God’s strength will develop in your weakness. That courage is found in trusting that God is greater than your fears.
As Jonathan takes you through the experiences that drove his decisions, he offers insight and inspiration to help you to grow to a point where standing alone is better than not standing at all.
This is the story behind the stand.
Jonathan Judah Isaac is a professional NBA basketball player for Orlando Magic. Isaac became the sixth overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft after an impressive season playing for the Florida State Seminoles. While his career stats are impressive, his undeniable heart for God sets him apart. He preaches regularly at JUMP Ministries Global Church and speaks nationally on topics of God’s love and faithfulness, and Christian unity. Isaac is involved with charity work and continually gives to worthy causes like Project Life Inc., a non-profit organization that helps to celebrate and protect culture and community globally. Jonathan can also be seen weekly on his show “Judah Nation” on JGNtv.org and on the JGNtv App.
