Faith on the Water: Olympic Rower Emily Froelich’s Journey with God

In the world of sports, few stories are as compelling as that of Olympic rower Emily Froelich. Her journey to the Olympics is not just a tale of physical endurance and athletic prowess, but a profound testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of divine guidance. Emily’s story is a powerful reminder of how faith in God and Jesus can transform lives, guide decisions, and create miracles in the most unexpected ways.

A Leap of Faith: From Athlete to Missionary

Emily’s journey began after she graduated from college. Instead of immediately diving into the competitive world of professional sports, she chose a different path—a path of faith. “I went on a one-year mission trip,” Emily recalls. “I wanted to fully give my life to Jesus, so I decided to give up being an athlete. So I told the national team I did not want to be on the national team.”

This decision marked a significant turning point in Emily’s life. It was an act of surrender, a willingness to lay down her ambitions to follow God’s calling. Little did she know, this leap of faith would eventually lead her back to the sport she loved, but in a way that glorified God.

A Vision from God

Halfway through her mission trip, Emily received a vision from God. “God gave me a vision, and in the vision, He showed how there's no other event where all the nations come like the Olympics, and how He wants to be glorified at this event. He's looking for people to go to the Olympics and represent Jesus instead of their country.”

Emily’s response was immediate and wholehearted. “So I said, yes, God, pick me.” This vision reignited her passion for rowing, but this time, her motivation was different. She was not just rowing for medals or national pride; she was rowing to glorify God.

Battling Through Obstacles

The path to the Olympics was not easy. “When I decided to come and train for the Olympics, there were all closed doors in front of me,” Emily shares. “Even two months ago, the coaches cut me from the team, but God had other plans. Five years of battling and enduring to get to this point, I think you learn a lot.”

Emily’s journey is filled with stories of faith and perseverance. “There are so many stories of when, in the physical, I could not see how it was possible, and I just knew God said this was possible, so it would happen. I think what God says is truth, right? The Bible is true, and God is alive and still speaking today.”

Guidance Through Prayer

One of the cornerstones of Emily’s faith journey is her reliance on prayer. “When I needed a vision, or I needed to understand a situation, I spend time in prayer with God, and He gives me a vision or a direction.” This deep connection with God provided her with the strength and clarity needed to navigate the challenges she faced.

Emily firmly believes that if God promised to be glorified at the Olympics, He would be. “It’s in the little things, the little interactions with people here in Paris, and everywhere we go as believers, we’re carrying the spirit, carrying the light with us.”

Redefining Winning and Losing

Emily’s perspective on winning and losing is deeply rooted in her faith. “I think the world considers winning and losing different than what God considers winning and losing. God's goal is to bring people to know Himself, right? So if I have a victory or a greater platform in rowing, then God can use that to bring more people to Himself.”

For Emily, every win in the worldly sense can be used as a win for the kingdom of God. Her ultimate goal is not just to win medals but to use her platform to share the gospel and bring people closer to God.

Leaning on the Body of Christ       

Emily’s journey is also a testament to the importance of community and mentorship. She has a spiritual mentor who is not an athlete, but a Christian who helps her keep her eyes on God. “God gave us the body of Christ for a reason, and it's learning to lean on the body when you need help, or when you struggle, or when you lose sight of God.”

Her relationship with her teammates is also crucial. She builds relationships and prays for specific people, trusting God to open doors for sharing her faith. “I pray for specific people that God has given me favor in their life and friendship in their life. And if you know me, if somebody gives me just one centimeter, then I just share everything. Share the gospel, share my testimony, and offer to pray.”

Clinging to God’s Promises

Throughout her journey, Emily has held on to the promises of God. Even when she was cut from the team, she knew that God had something better for her. “It was not easier, not less painful because I was cut, but I had a fresh word from God that there was something better, and I just clung to that.”

Emily Froelich’s story is a powerful reminder that faith in God can lead us through the most challenging times and open doors that seem impossible. Her journey to the Olympics is not just about athletic achievement; it’s about glorifying God, sharing the gospel, and living out her faith in every aspect of her life. As we follow her journey, may we also be inspired to trust in God’s plans and let His light shine through us in all we do.