Faith and Rodeo: A Conversation with KC Jones
Recently, I had the privilege of sitting down with KC Jones, a seasoned rodeo competitor and a man whose life story is as inspiring as it is authentic. Despite some technical hiccups, our conversation revealed deep insights about faith, perseverance, and living a life aligned with God's principles.
Getting to Know KC
KC grew up in a tiny town in northwest Wyoming—Ralston, Wyoming—a place where everyone knew everyone, and life was simple but demanding. His father, a self-taught horse trainer and hunter-guiding rancher, instilled in KC a love for horses and a relentless drive to improve. KC’s childhood memories are filled with rodeo nights at Cody, ropes, and horses, all fueled by a desire to get better and better.
The Road to Success in Rodeo
KC competed in multiple events—heading, heeling, calf roping, bulldogging, and trip—making him a well-rounded rodeo athlete. Over the years, he achieved notable victories, including participating in the National Finals Rodeo and winning at major rodeos such as Tucson, Prescott, Pendleton, and Cheyenne. But success didn't come easy. KC emphasizes that his journey was paved with trial and error, hard work, and a willingness to try new things. What set him apart, he believes, was his focus and determination. Unlike many, KC avoided distractions like partying or seeking shortcuts. Instead, he stayed committed to his craft and kept his eyes on his goals.
Faith from Childhood
KC credits his mother for laying a spiritual foundation early in life. Her deep faith and respect for others influenced him profoundly. He shared how, even as a young boy, he learned to treat women with respect and avoid vulgar language—principles rooted in his faith. His relationship with Christ deepened over time, shaped by answered prayers and life's challenges. One memorable story from his childhood illustrates this: KC lost a hunting knife in some willows. After praying for help, he found the knife exactly where he had looked. That simple act of faith planted a seed in his spiritual journey, demonstrating that God is attentive to even our smallest needs.
Trials and Trust in God
KC’s rodeo career was peppered with moments where his faith was tested. He recounted a college rodeo where he drew the worst steer but, through prayer and perseverance, ended up winning the rodeo after the steer was redrawn due to a crippled animal. His takeaway? Never give up on God. Faith isn't only for good times; it's most vital when circumstances seem against us. He shared how life's trials often push us to our knees, but those moments are opportunities for God to reveal His power. KC emphasizes that growing closer to God requires stepping out of comfort zones—learning to be "comfortable being uncomfortable," as he puts it. These experiences, though difficult, shape us into more Christ-like vessels.
Living a Life of Integrity
KC lives out his faith daily, choosing to walk in integrity and consistency. He talks about how his upbringing and spiritual foundation influence his interactions—treating others with respect, avoiding harmful substances, and making decisions that bring him closer to God. He encourages others to consider every decision: Does this choice bring me nearer to God or farther away? His father's advice echoes in his mind: "It only takes one mistake to change your life forever." Wisdom in decision-making is vital.
The Power of Prayer and the Holy Spirit
KC believes in the importance of maintaining a clean heart and vessel to receive God's guidance through the Holy Spirit. He highlights that living righteously opens the door for divine inspiration—that God’s Spirit can teach us all things if we’re receptive. He shared how integrating prayer into his daily life and even into his work with horses has transformed his approach. Training horses out of love and confidence rather than fear mirrors how God loves us—seeking relationship over control, patience over punishment.
Grace, Forgiveness, and Moving Forward
A recurring theme in our conversation was the grace of Jesus Christ. KC emphasizes that no matter our shortcomings, God's forgiveness is available—it's not about guilt and shame but about repentance and growth. Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross was for our salvation, and His love invites us to come boldly, no matter what mistakes we've made. He encourages everyone to ask for help when struggling, to be willing to do the work, and to trust that God will meet us where we are. The journey toward faith is ongoing, and each step—no matter how small—is part of His greater plan.
Final Thoughts
KC's story is a testament to the transformative power of faith, perseverance, and integrity. Whether in rodeo, relationships, or spiritual walk, he reminds us that God is always present, ready to guide and equip us if we’re willing to step out in trust. As we look ahead, I’m excited to invite KC back in October to continue this meaningful conversation. His insights serve as a reminder that our lives, no matter how challenging, are opportunities for God to shine through us.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and faith-filled conversations. If you'd like to connect with KC or share your story, feel free to reach out. Remember, God is always working in us—let’s walk confidently in faith!