Adventurer Bear Grylls, renowned for his daring exploits in the wild, has recently opened up about the transformative power of his Christian faith. In a heartfelt reflection, Grylls shared how his relationship with Jesus has profoundly changed him “from the inside out,” offering a compelling testimony of spiritual renewal and strength.
Grylls’ journey of faith began in his teenage years when a visiting vicar at his school proclaimed, “Jesus Christ came to kill religion and bring life.” This statement resonated deeply with him, challenging his perceptions of religion as a source of division and conflict. Instead, he found in Jesus a figure embodying peace, kindness, sacrifice, freedom, and affirmation.
Intrigued by this portrayal, Grylls delved into the life of Jesus, discovering that “whoever [Christ] met—rich, poor, sick, healthy, preacher or prostitute, powerful leader or simple fisherman—no one ever seemed to walk away unchanged.” This realization led him to a personal encounter with Christ, which he describes as a transformative experience that changed him “from the inside out.”
For Grylls, faith is not merely an abstract concept but a lived experience. He likens understanding Christianity to tasting ice cream or learning to swim—”it has to be tried to be felt.” This perspective underscores the importance of personal engagement with faith, encouraging others to explore and experience it firsthand.
In his own life, Grylls acknowledges moments when he attempted to navigate challenges without relying on his faith, only to find his heart restless until he returned to Christ. He emphasizes the necessity of God’s presence, stating, “We lose our power when we try to live on our own strength alone. I really need His helping hand, His peace within, and that quiet assurance.”
Grylls’ faith has not only provided personal solace but has also emboldened him to live more adventurously. He believes that his Christian faith empowers him to take risks, care for others, and support those around him. He encourages exploration and questioning, viewing the pursuit of truth as a courageous endeavor.
Choosing faith, according to Grylls, requires courage. He acknowledges that it is often the tougher path but asserts that it is also the most fulfilling. He urges individuals to “be brave,” to “bend the knee, close your eyes and ask for help,” highlighting the humility and strength found in seeking God’s guidance.
Beyond personal reflection, Grylls has shared his spiritual insights through his devotional book, Soul Fuel: Daily Devotions to Survive the Adventure of Life. This 365-day devotional offers readers daily encouragement, drawing from Grylls’ own experiences and the teachings of Christ to inspire courage and resilience.
In Soul Fuel, Grylls discusses the importance of starting each day with God, describing these moments as “good fuel for the soul.” He shares how his faith has been a source of strength during life’s battles, reinforcing the idea that spiritual nourishment is essential for enduring challenges.
Grylls’ commitment to his faith extends to his public life, where he has supported others on their spiritual journeys. Notably, he assisted in the baptism of actor Russell Brand, demonstrating his dedication to guiding others towards faith and transformation.
As a Christian and conservative, Grylls’ testimony serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith. His experiences illustrate that embracing Christ can lead to profound personal change, offering hope and strength in the face of adversity.
In a world where self-reliance is often championed, Grylls’ story challenges us to consider the value of surrendering to a higher power. His journey encourages us to explore faith, to seek truth courageously, and to find strength not solely within ourselves but through a relationship with Christ.