I thought this was great! This is Alton's pre-classic prayer.
February 21, 2008: Alton's prayer for the Classic
"Dear Lord,
Practice is over, my hooks are sharp, all my baits are tied on and my rods are ready. My strategy is set from 'plan A' all the way down to 'plan C'. Now I'm just waiting, just watching the clock. I've worked the entire season to make it to this one event, now it's here. No more time for preparation, just waiting for the kickoff and for the game to start.
This is one of the longest nights in professional fishing. Right now the entire field has aspirations of being the Classic Champion, including me. Tomorrow that dream will die for at least half the field.
It is at times like these that I must affirm that my foundation set on something other than just bass fishing. A bass fisherman is what I am, but it's not who I am. If I let my fishing define who I am I will ultimately be disappointed and my world will collapse.
My true identity is in Jesus Christ. It is only through YOU that I can find lasting peace and true satisfaction. Please grant me wisdom as I fish and give me good decisions on the water. I pray that you will give me a victory in the Classic! But, Lord, may your will be done, not mine.
Lord, I ask that you calm my nerves and give me the courage to trust completely in you. You are in control. You have my best interests at heart. Whatever the outcome, may You use it for Your glory!
Thank you for loving me. Thank you for creating me. Thank you for my family. Thank you for the many gifts you've placed in my life. I pray that you will keep all of us safe on the water tomorrow. I pray that you will use me this week for purposes that go way beyond just fishing.
These things I pray in Jesus' name, Amen!"
— Alton
Philippians 4:6-9
I am sure he is now praising God who gives us all things through His Son Jesus Christ. I am glad he won and will get the stage for a year. That is the kind of influences we need at the top. He has the opportunity to really make an impact. I didn't know he was a Christian angler or I would have been pulling for him a little more. What is the source for this prayer? Did he post it somewhere?
He has been outspoken about his faith for quite some time, you just don't hear as much about him, because he has not been in the spotlight as much as some of the other (flashier) anglers. He is a big supporter of the Fishers of Men National Tournament Trail. I was puling for him to win. Nothing gives a Christian Angler a better platform, to proclaim his faith in Christ, like winning the Classic. Jay is the best example I can think of. If you have not read his book, it is a must read.
Not only did Alton win the big show, but he did it in style. I was torn, I love seeing KVD win, but there are not many guys out there as classy as Alton.
It was posted on his web page before the classic started.
http://www.altonjones.com/
Alton has been involved with Fishing with the Pros for many years. On Suday morning he has lead the chapel services. Alton doesn't wear his faith on his shirt sleeve he lives it and shares. I was glad I was able to cheer for someone that just doesn't say "thankyou jesus" but truely means it.
REEL MAN
I look for big things from Alton this season. God had a purpose in him winning the Classic, as He does for each of us. Now he has an even bigger opportunity to share God's word to many people. I'm sure he'll use it too.