Living with Faith, Resilience, and Purpose: An Inspiring Conversation with JR Vezain

In a heartfelt and inspiring conversation, JR Vezain shares his remarkable journey of faith, perseverance, and purpose. From his early days as a rodeo cowboy to overcoming life-altering injuries, JR’s story is a testament to the transformative power of trusting God in every season of life. 

J.R. Vezain is a renowned, six-time National Finals Rodeo (NFR) bareback rider. 

Early Success: Clinched the National High School Finals Rodeo bareback riding champion title in 2009.

PRCA Pro: Named the Resistol Bareback Riding Rookie of the Year in 2011.

NFR Qualifiers: Qualified six times for the National Finals Rodeo (2012–2014, 2016–2018)

The 2018 Accident & Overcoming Adversity

In September 2018 at a PRCA rodeo, Vezain's bareback horse flipped over on him, breaking his vertebrae and resulting in paralysis from the waist down. Refusing to give up on his passion for horses, he dug deep and learned to adapt. Using specialized robotic braces, he has been able to walk with assistance.

Reined Cow Horse Triumphs

Vezain returned to competitive equine events in the reined cow horse discipline. With his legs appropriately secured for safety, he uses his upper body and voice cues to compete, famously wowing crowds at the Colorado Reined Cow Horse Association's Sagebrush show.

Personal Life

He lives with his wife, Shelby, and their son, Ryatt, on a ranch in Montana, where he continues to work horses, handle cattle, and inspire others through his story.

Our Conversation.... 

From Cowboy Dreams to Life’s Unexpected Turns

JR grew up in Wyoming, living the quintessential cowboy lifestyle—training horses, rodeoing, and embracing the rugged spirit of the West. His early years were marked by dedication to rodeo, wrestling, and a deep love for the cowboy way of life. His hero was his Uncle Duncan, whose influence sparked JR’s dream of being a cowboy.

However, life took a dramatic turn in 2018 during a bareback riding event when JR suffered a severe injury, breaking his T9 and T10 vertebrae, which left him paralyzed from the waist down. This life-shattering event tested his faith and resilience but also became a turning point for his spiritual growth.

Faith as the Foundation

JR’s faith journey began early, nurtured by a loving family and strong role models. He was raised in a household that valued church and spiritual principles. Yet, like many of us, he faced seasons of struggle, falling away from his faith and experiencing a prodigal son moment. His rock bottom came in 2014 when he found himself in a jail cell, reflecting on his life and realizing the need for a heart change.

That moment of surrender marked a new chapter. JR committed to following Christ, quitting destructive habits, and developing a genuine relationship with God through prayer and reading His Word. His faith grew stronger as he learned to see God's plan even in the midst of suffering.

Sanctification: A Daily Journey

JR emphasizes that sanctification—being made more like Christ—is a lifelong process. He explains that sanctification begins the moment someone genuinely accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior. It involves recognizing the Holy Spirit’s conviction, not condemnation, and allowing God's grace to transform us from the inside out.

He shares that staying connected to Jesus, the true vine, is the key to living a victorious life. It’s about heart posture—seeking God's will, surrendering selfish desires, and trusting His timing. JR’s honest reflection on striving for perfection highlights that our righteousness is through faith in Jesus, not our own efforts.

Obedience in the Small Things

One of the most impactful messages JR conveys is the importance of obedience in everyday life. Small acts—reaching out to a friend, encouraging a family member, or simply listening to the Holy Spirit’s nudges—are vital in fulfilling God's purpose. Obedience in these moments often leads to greater opportunities to serve and impact others.

Overcoming Life’s Setbacks

JR’s story is a powerful reminder that setbacks and hardships do not define us. After his injury, he faced the daunting challenge of providing for his family, raising a young son, and nurturing his marriage. Despite these obstacles, JR’s unwavering faith and reliance on God’s provision have sustained him. He shares how God has used his circumstances to inspire others, emphasizing that even in the darkest moments, God's plan is at work. JR and his wife have launched a nonprofit, "Spur Your Way Out," to help others facing setbacks by providing equipment and resources to pursue their dreams.

A Heart for Service and Impact

JR’s mission extends beyond his personal journey. Through his testimony and his nonprofit, he seeks to uplift others, reminding us all that our stories can be a source of hope and encouragement. His life exemplifies that trusting in God's timing, remaining obedient, and living with purpose can turn any setback into a platform for impact. 

Final Words of Encouragement

As the conversation concludes, JR offers a powerful reminder: our identity is rooted in Christ, not in our accomplishments or failures. We are called to live authentically, seeking God's will, and trusting that He will use our lives for His glory.

In JR’s words, "We all have a story, and we get to decide what the end looks like. Trust God, be thankful, and let Him lead you—because your story is part of His greater plan."

Be inspired, be encouraged, and remember—no matter where you are in life, God's grace is sufficient, and His plans for you are good.