Elite Athletes Encounter GodSample

Mental strength through joy

Johan Remen Evensen (Norway)
1 x Olympic & 3x World Championship medalist & former World Record holder in Ski Flying (246.5 m)

Johan Remen Evensen in the interview with Jörg Walcher (February 2012)

I remember when you mentioned in one of our chapel services: “Of all the least important things in life ski flying was the most important thing for me!” What are the really important things in life for you?

The most important thing for me are my relationships. My relationship with God, my wife and my daughter. When I protect these relationships, then I have a bigger chance of being successful in the less important things in life. 

How did you live out your faith as a Christian athlete?

That has never been particularly hard for me. I recognized pretty fast that I just have to be 100% myself. And so the other athletes respected my faith. I can’t always attend church on Sunday because I am traveling about 230 days a year. But thankfully, I have the internet to experience the church services that happen at home. 

What went through your mind after you achieved the world record in ski flying?

I remember that I was very proud to be able to jump from the new and world’s biggest jump - only one hour away from my hometown. At first, I was still felt pretty uneasy about it, but then I was able to put aside my nervousness. The fear that I saw in the faces of other athletes somehow inspired me to set aside my own anxiety. I decided to not just try out the new jump but to give it my best right away. That’s exactly what I did. When I landed everything seemed to explode (also my back pain). My dream came true! I felt so blessed and privileged to be able to fulfill this childhood dream. 

Would you say that your faith in God helps you mentally?

I think so. Even after a bad jump I am aware that ski flying isn’t the most important thing in life. On the other hand, I felt that I was called to be a ski jumper, at least for a certain time. This made it easier for me to travel, endure boring training camps, and be separated from my family. 

Do you have a favorite Bible verse?

The verse in Philippians 4:4 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” This verse encouraged me, especially all the way on top of the jump. 

You are a husband and young father. How do you live out your faith in your family?

This is extremely important to me. The same faith in God that I had as a child I want to pass on to my daughter. I believe this is the greatest thing that I can give to her. 

What advice would you give to an athlete on his journey?

Quite simple: Be yourself and don’t try to be someone else!

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.