In a remarkable journey of redemption and faith, an iconic figure emerges from the shadows, transforming his life through an encounter that forever alters his purpose and inspires others to seek a higher calling.
Boxing icon George Foreman shared the life-altering moment that led him to Jesus Christ, a near-death experience that transformed his perspective and purpose. The former heavyweight champion, known for his athletic prowess, now embraces his role as an evangelist, spreading the message of God’s faithfulness and the power of redemption.
George Foreman’s illustrious boxing career catapulted him to stardom, beginning with his gold medal win at the 1968 Mexico Summer Olympics and culminating in his heavyweight championship victory over Joe Frazier in 1972. However, a pivotal event in 1977 caused him to retire and find solace in his newfound faith.
Recalling the encounter in his Puerto Rico dressing room, Foreman vividly describes how he was pulled from the brink of death and given a second chance at life.
He said, “I was dead. There was nothing left of me… I stared at nothingness, no hope. I was pulled out of this dirty place, and given a second chance to live. That has kept me grounded.”
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As the biographical film Big George Foreman shines a light on his remarkable life, the 74-year-old pugilist-turned-pastor shares his wisdom and unwavering commitment to evangelism. Reflecting on his transformative journey, Foreman emphasizes the significance of being an evangelist, explaining that his ultimate purpose is to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ.
He stated, “‘Evangelistic’ is the word that has been so powerful to me in my life… I know I’ve done a good job, and I’m happy about that, trying to spell out to the world, ‘Jesus Christ has come alive in me.'”
Foreman’s path to success, both in boxing and ministry, has been marked by hardships and adversity. Growing up in Marshall, Texas, he endured a challenging childhood overshadowed by instability, violence, and poverty. Plagued by alcohol abuse and involvement in criminal activities during his early years,
Foreman’s life took a turn when he joined the Job Corps program in California. It was there that Doc Broaddus, a boxing coach, and counselor, recognized Foreman’s potential and encouraged him to channel his anger into the sport. Reflecting on his transformation,
Foreman shared, “In my early years, I was always fighting. I was fighting for survival… Then, suddenly, the things I was always fighting for became positive… I fell in love with boxing.”
Following his near-death experience, Foreman committed himself to spreading the Gospel and founded The Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in 1980. Financial struggles compelled him to return to boxing, and in 1994, at the age of 45, he became the oldest fighter to hold the heavyweight championship.
His incredible journey was documented in his autobiography, By George: The Autobiography of George Foreman, which later inspired a motion picture adaptation. Reflecting on his remarkable story, Foreman shared, “So many people helped me in life… I didn’t know that. I thought I was doing so much… but there are so many good people in my life.”
Throughout the tumultuous chapters of his life, Foreman acknowledges God’s presence and the impact of his mother’s prayers, which he believes saved him from death during his troubled youth. He said, “In hindsight, [God’s faithfulness] was all over my life, period… There I was, a thief, on my way to jail, underneath a house, hiding from the police, covering myself from head to toe with slop.”
Recognizing the faithfulness of God, Foreman emphasizes the importance of living a life in light of eternity. He shares the guiding principle of Psalm 1:1, stating, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers.”
For Foreman, achieving worldly success pales in comparison to the ultimate goal of serving God. He urges others to seek God, have unwavering faith, and believe in the realm of possibilities. He passionately affirms, “Don’t ever give up on possibility, and your life can be turned and changed for the better.”
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George Foreman’s journey from boxing legend to evangelist serves as an inspiration to all who face adversity and seek transformation. His near-death experience and subsequent encounter with Jesus Christ redirected his path, leading him to become an ambassador of faith.
Foreman’s unwavering commitment to sharing the Gospel and his gratitude for God’s faithfulness is evident in every aspect of his life. As he continues to inspire and empower the next generation of believers, his story serves as a reminder that through faith and perseverance, lives can be forever changed for the better.
Sources: Taphaps, TheChristianPost
