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BULL RIDER WITH FAITH

Topics: Courage; Danger; Death; Evangelism; Faith; Fear; Peace; Prayer

References: Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 26:3; Matthew 28:19; Philippians 4:6–7; 1 Peter 5:7

Adriano Moraes is one of the best bull riders in the world. His flawless technique and natural riding ability have won him two world championships. Moraes is also deeply committed to Jesus Christ. “Work, faith, and humbleness” is the motto by which he and his family live. “When I’m close to my God, I’m doing well,” he says.

During one rodeo, his faith was severely tested after he saw a fellow Brazilian rider get thrown from his bull and go down hard. The rider didn’t move as a crowd of cowboys and officials gathered around him, loaded him on a gurney, and took him to the nearest hospital.

Suddenly Moraes was gripped with fear. He didn’t want the same thing to happen to him. Later, in his hotel room, he knelt by the side of his bed and prayed, “Lord Jesus, strengthen me through your Holy Spirit, who lives in me.” The Lord blessed him with peace and courage. “I can die now,” Moraes said.

While still a champion rider, Moraes heads up “Rodeo with Christ,” a multifaceted ministry in Brazil. The ministry includes TV shows and an annual evangelistic “Rodeo with Christ.” The primary goal is to spread the truth of Jesus Christ to those who need to hear it.

—Beyond the Bull television series, “Out of the Gate” (The Learning Channel, January 10, 2005)