Top Christian Celebrity Moments of 2015

Denzel Washington Tells College Grads to Put God First

In a video that went viral this year, Academy Award-winning Christian actor Denzel Washington told college graduates at Dillard University in May to “put God first” in everything they do and added that everything he has accomplished in this life was due to “the grace of God”. In his commencement speech at the university, he also stressed the importance of thanking God every day. “I pray that you put your slippers under your bed tonight, so that when you wake up in the morning you have to get on your knees to reach them. And while you’re down there, say thank you," he said. "Thank you for grace, thank you for mercy, thank you for understanding, thank you for wisdom, thank you for parents...True desire in the heart for anything good is God’s proof to you, sent beforehand, to indicate that it’s yours already." Amen to that.

Russell Wilson and Ciara Practice Celibacy In Their Relationship

The Seattle Seahawks quarterback and singer understand the importance of keeping God close in their relationship and decided that if they wanted to truly value each other, they should practice abstinence. Wilson shared their decision to remain celibate with Pastor Miles McPherson at The Rock Church in July. In the widely city story, Wilson said, "She was on tour and I was looking at her in the mirror, and she was sitting there. And God spoke to me and said 'I need you to lead her.' And I was like, 'Really? Right now?' And He goes, 'No, I want you and need you to lead her.' And I asked her, 'What would you do if we took all that extra stuff off the table? And just did it Jesus' way?'" They’ve continued to hold to their commitment to God and recognize the blessings they bring to each other. "For me, I knew that God had brought me in her life to bless her and for her to bless me…We're not going to be perfect, by any means. But He's anointed both of us and He's calling for us to do something special."

Tim Tebow Shows Grace After Being Waived By Philadelphia Eagles

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The quarterback and humanitarian handled coach Chip Kelly’s decision to not include him in the Philadelphia Eagles roster this season with Grace. The dedicated Christian athlete wrote on his Twitter account (@TimTebow) "Thanks @Eagles and Coach Kelly for giving me the opportunity to play the game I love! Romans 8:28 #Blessed" If you don’t already know this verse, Romans 8:28 says “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” It’s hard to not admire Tebow’s faith and gratitude around this personal setback. David Whitley from the Orlando Sentinel even said Tebow’s fans should take his lead. His exemplary Christian response and demonstration of sportsmanship easily earns him a spot on this list.

Justin Bieber Uses Concert As An Opportunity To Share God’s Word With Fans

This year, the Biebs spent a lot of time talking about his Christian faith and how he is trying to change the way he lives. The Born-Again pop star put those words into action at an L.A. concert in November where he took the opportunity to share his love for God and Scripture with his fans, crediting his connection with God for helping him to get back on his feet after a string of widely publicized tabloid troubles. He also stressed the importance of maintaining a positive spirit and surrounding yourself with encouraging people. We can all agree with this message.