Elite Athletes Encounter GodSample

Fearless

Ole Kristian Furuseth (Norway)
Medal Winner at the Olympics and Ski World Championships, and Overall World Cup Winner GS

During Ole Kristian’s childhood there was no indication of him becoming a world known downhill racer. Although he comes from Norway, he grew up in the flat southeastern part of the country far away from the high mountains and well-known slalom courses and ski clubs. 

Although the Norwegian skiers weren’t particularly good back then, Ole Kristian became an enthusiastic ski fan. After begging and pleading his parents, they finally gave him a pair of slalom skis. Soon he participated in competitions, which was the beginning of a career filled with many wins in World Cup races. He stood on the podium over 30 times and won the World Cup twice in the giant slalom competition. With his successes, Ole Kristian sparked the big Norwegian downhill boom. He trained harder than any other Norwegian skier ever did. 

However, Ole Kristian knows that there are more important things in life than winning at ski competitions. “Being a Christian is the most beautiful victory that anyone can experience” he says. He grew up in a family of believers and the word of the Bible has naturally always been part of his life. He can’t imagine a life without his faith.

“It is wonderful when you accept Jesus as your Lord. Many things can happen in life. An injury can ruin the career of an athlete, but you can always build on the salvation of Jesus. I believe in forgiveness and in a God that only has the best in mind for us. I believe He has a plan for my life.”

All Norwegians know Ole Kristian Furuseth and know about his faith. He never tried to hide it. “As an adult it’s no problem for me to talk about my faith. You don’t have to be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ” he says. Together with other believers who are also elite athletes, he wants to prove that people who believe in God are no different than anyone else. Maybe he can inspire young people to stand for their faith. Because there aren’t any churches close by, reading in the Bible and prayer is very important to Ole Kristian. “I always take my Bible with me when I am traveling, and I read it every day. I also pray often. It is important and useful to talk with God every day.”

“Psalms 37:5 always had a special meaning to me. There, it says: “Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.” That doesn’t mean that God will help you win competitions. He doesn’t do that! However, in this verse I was promised that God will always be a part of my life and take care of me. I can trust in this. Then, it is irrelevant whether I make first or last place in a race.”

Action Step

God also wants to encounter YOU. Invite the Holy Spirit to read the bible passage with you and expect that he will speak to you. Trust that God will show you the steps you should take in your own life. Ask Him for strength and courage to follow his voice.