ATHLETE TESTIMONY
ATHLETE TESTIMONY
Shelly-Ann FraserPryce
Michael Chang
The busy life of Olympic and world track and field champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce led the Jamaican to realize that peace could only be found in Christ
Olympian Michael Chang disciples others through his talents.
Peace eluded Olympic and world 100-meter track champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce even after she became a believer in Christ, but now she has a strong faith that keeps her grounded, despite her wealth and success on the track. Fraser-Pryce, Jamaica's two-time Olympic gold medalist and world indoor track champion, is running on the track and field circuit all over the world. Despite her hectic schedule and long stretches away from her home in Kingston, Jamaica, she makes it a priority to spend time with God every chance she gets. "One thing I carry with me is my Daily Bread (devotional reading) everywhere I go," says Fraser-Pryce. "On my phone is my Bible. I have plans on my phone, and it gives me a reminder every day to read my Bible. When I'm in Italy, I actually go to the church around the road from us. And in Italy, they speak no English, but I sit there and I do my own (study) of course...it's my moment to reflect on God." Even with all her success, she understands that world fame and wealth won't give her what she really desires. "Have you ever heard about the peace? That peace that passes all understanding? That's what I'm striving for," she says, referring to Philippians 4:7.
It takes a family to raise a tennis star, but not all families have done it as well as US Olympian Michael Chang's. "My parents always told me that it didn't matter what I wanted to be, as long as I enjoyed it and tried by best at it," Chang says. "When they realized that I enjoyed tennis, they guided me and encouraged me and did everything they could do help me become better." The Chang family grew stronger and closer by working together to help Michael accomplish his goals, and they recognized that his success opened doors to touch people's lives. To Michael, playing tennis meant far more than winning. He calls it an opportunity to "spread the Word." "If I'm able to draw people to the Lord, then they'll always have that joy and that love for Christ," Chang says. "The fame and rankings can't compare to touching people's lives and encouraging them in the Lord, because that's something that lasts a lifetime and beyond."
HEART VALUE
HEART VALUE
Despite her busy schedule, Fraser-Pryce is devoted to God's Word, always making time to learn more about the gospel and how she can serve Christ.
While playing tennis, Michael Chang's focus was to draw people to Jesus.
OBEY THE BIBLE
MAKE DISCIPLES