He is opening up about his spiritual journey.
Television personality and adventurer Bear Grylls recently shared how his relationship with Jesus Christ profoundly transformed his life, urging others to explore faith as he did. In an op-ed for The Times titled “To be fully understood, the Christian faith must be tried,” Grylls reflected on his spiritual journey and the internal change that faith has brought him.
Grylls, best known for hosting Man vs. Wild, recounted how his interest in Christianity began in his teenage years when a school sermon captured his attention. The visiting speaker said, “Jesus Christ came to kill religion and bring life,” a message that contrasted the conflict he associated with religion and the peace he saw in Christ’s teachings. Intrigued, Grylls delved deeper into the life of Jesus and was struck by how every person in biblical accounts seemed transformed after encountering Him—an experience Grylls says he personally shares.
Describing faith as something experiential, Grylls compared Christianity to activities like eating ice cream or swimming, saying one has to experience it firsthand to understand it. He admitted there were times he strayed from his beliefs and relied solely on himself, only to find inner restlessness. Reconnecting with Jesus, he said, brought him strength, peace, and a sense of assurance he couldn’t find elsewhere.
Grylls sees a strong link between his adventurous career and his spiritual beliefs. His faith, he said, encourages him to take risks and live boldly, while also deepening his compassion for others. He emphasized that having faith often means taking the harder road, but one that ultimately leads to a more meaningful life. Encouraging readers to be vulnerable, Grylls described prayer as a simple yet powerful act of humility and hope.
This isn’t the first time Grylls has spoken publicly about his faith. In 2019, he published Soul Fuel, a year-long devotional filled with personal reflections and stories from his expeditions, illustrating how his beliefs sustained him through life’s challenges. He’s also spoken about Christ being a daily source of strength and light, not just a once-a-week ritual. Grylls’ spiritual path has even led him to baptize his friend, actor Russell Brand, in the River Thames, showcasing how deeply integrated his faith is in his life.