Faith Conversation with Andy Taylor: Embracing the Father Heart of God
In this inspiring dialogue, Andy Taylor shares his remarkable journey from rodeo fame to a deep, intimate relationship with God as Father—and how that relationship transforms everything.
Discovering the Heart of the Father
Growing up on a ranch in the Texas Panhandle, Andy Taylor's early life was rooted in strong morals and values, thanks to his parents. Yet, like many, faith wasn't a central part of his childhood; church was often an afterthought amid the busy ranch life. It wasn't until his adult years, particularly after a rodeo career that took him to the heights of success, that Andy encountered the Lord in a way that forever changed his perspective.
Rodeo Success and Internal Struggles
Andy rode in the professional rodeo circuit, achieving notable highlights—including riding one of the most formidable bulls of all time. On the outside, he appeared to have it all: fame, skill, and accolades. Despite outward successes, he saw a reflection in the mirror that he didn't like.
A Disposable Relationship with God
Andy recounts that during his rodeo days, his relationship with God was superficial—what he calls a "disposable relationship." He would turn to God in trouble, then revert back to his own way once circumstances improved. His salvation experience in 1974 was genuine, but it didn't forge a continual, relational walk with the Lord. It was only during a deep personal crisis in 1984 that he truly encountered God in a life-altering way.
The Turning Point: Encountering God as Father
One pivotal moment was on November 17, 1984. After crying out to God in desperation, Andy looked in the mirror and hated what he saw. In that moment of brokenness, he prayed, "God, if you're out there, you gotta help me." That prayer marked the beginning of a new relationship—one rooted in God's identity as Father. Andy explains that understanding God as Father is foundational. When Jesus taught his disciples to pray, he started with "Our Father," giving ordinary people access to relate to the Creator of the universe as a loving, caring Father. This revelation became the bedrock of Andy’s spiritual life, transforming how he interacts with God daily.
Relating to God as Father: The Heart of True Faith
Andy emphasizes that knowing conceptually that God is Father isn't enough; experiencing this relationship is what truly changes lives. He shares how he spends quiet moments on his porch, simply becoming aware of God's presence, listening without an agenda. Sometimes he receives specific guidance; other times, he just enjoys His presence. The key, he says, is learning to deal with distractions and creating space for God to speak.
Practical Steps to Cultivate the Relationship
For those new to hearing from God, Andy offers practical advice: start small. Just 3 to 5 minutes of quiet, intentional space, free from distractions, can open the door to encountering God's love. Even in silence, God's love is present and ready to make Himself real.
From Personal Transformation to Leading a Church
Andy’s journey from rodeo champion to church planter and spiritual leader is remarkable. After experiencing God's call, he started a cowboy church, initially in informal settings like barns, and eventually built a thriving regional church in Sayre, Oklahoma. His story exemplifies how embracing God's Fatherhood can lead to a life of purpose, impact, and spiritual fruitfulness.
The Power of Kingdom Mindset
Andy advocates for a kingdom perspective—seeking first God's kingdom and His righteousness, trusting that all other things fall into place. He encourages believers to relate to God not just as a distant deity but as a Father who invites us into an active, ongoing relationship that impacts our daily lives and communities.
Impact and Legacy
Under Andy’s leadership, many have been called into full-time ministry, and their lives continue to influence others. His story reveals that God's faithfulness is evident through miracles—like a church receiving a $1 million gift unexpectedly, reaffirming that with God, the impossible becomes possible.
Resources and How to Connect
If you're inspired by Andy’s story and want to learn more, you can join his services streamed live every Sunday at Trinity Fellowship in Sayre, Oklahoma. His podcast, The Kingdom Cowboy, offers practical insights into living out the kingdom today. Andy has also authored books like Reading Your Bible for All It's Worth and The Best Kept Secrets in the Kingdom, which delve deeper into understanding God's Word and kingdom principles.
Final Thoughts
Andy Taylor’s journey underscores a vital truth: relationship with the Father is the foundation of authentic faith. As we slow down, quiet our hearts, and listen, God reveals His love and purpose for us. His desire is to bring us into a family where we belong—a place where every child of God can walk confidently, knowing they are deeply loved and empowered to impact the world.
Would you like to explore this relationship further? Visit Andy’s website or tune into his teachings. And remember, the most important thing you can do today is to simply pause, listen, and open your heart to the Father’s love.
If you'd like the links to Andy's resources, podcasts, or books, I can include those as well!