A Faith-Filled Journey of Rodeo, Family, and Divine Purpose with Tim O’Connell
Fearlessly Unshackled Faith: A Conversation with Tim O’Connell
In a heartfelt and inspiring episode of Fearlessly Unshackled Faith Conversation, Sarah Rose sits down with Tim O’Connell, a three-time world champion bareback rider, to discuss faith, family, perseverance, and the incredible ways God moves in our lives—even through the hard times.
From Rodeo Rings to God's Grace Tim, hailing from Cascade, Iowa, shares his journey of faith intertwined with his rodeo career. Despite his success on the rodeo circuit, his true victory has been in developing a deep relationship with Christ. He recounts how a simple Bible study at college opened his eyes to God's love, leading him to accept Jesus as his Savior in a moment of divine clarity.
Life’s Challenges with Faith
Tim’s story is one of perseverance amid adversity. He discusses the struggles with relocating his family, navigating his son’s ADHD and autism, and the physical pain from injuries sustained in rodeo. Through it all, he emphasizes how faith has been his anchor, guiding his decisions and providing peace during turbulent times.His move back to Iowa wasn’t just about a change of scenery—it was a divine orchestration. God led him and his family to a community that embraced them, offered healing, and allowed them to settle into a new chapter filled with purpose and love.
The Power of Obedience and Small Steps
Tim shares how stepping out in faith—whether through starting a Bible study for college rodeo kids or praying openly at mealtimes—has created ripples far beyond what he imagined. His obedience to God’s nudges has touched countless lives, demonstrating that sometimes, the smallest steps of faith can lead to the most profound blessings.
Living Out Faith Daily
From his early days in Catholicism to embracing a more personal, Christian walk, Tim explains how his faith has evolved. He describes his commitment to prayer, his desire to be a light in his community, and the importance of surrounding himself with honest, godly people who hold him accountable.
Encouragement for Others
Tim’s story offers encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges or uncertain about their faith journey. His testimony shows that God's love is relentless, that He uses every trial to shape us into sharper, shinier versions of ourselves—like a blade forged through fire.He emphasizes that God’s love for us is unconditional and that our children are a gift, uniquely created with purpose. His heartfelt reflections remind us that no matter how different or challenging our children may be, they are destined for greatness in God’s eyes.
A Call to Action
As the conversation concludes, Tim invites others to seek Christ actively. His closing prayer is a beautiful reminder of the daily effort to draw closer to God, to forgive ourselves, and to trust in His plan—even when it’s hard to see the full picture.
Final Thought
Tim O’Connell’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith, obedience, and community. Through rodeo, family, and personal struggles, he exemplifies what it means to live fearlessly unshackled and fully anchored in God’s love. If you’re seeking to deepen your faith or need encouragement in your journey, remember that God is always there, guiding your steps—sometimes through the most unexpected places.
Stay inspired. Keep walking in faith. And trust that God's plan is perfect.