Renowned actor Tom Selleck, celebrated for his remarkable performances in Emmy and Golden Globe-winning shows like The Closer, Blue Bloods, and Magnum P.I., humbly attributes his accomplishments solely to his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ.
However, Selleck’s spiritual journey has not always been smooth sailing. He openly acknowledges that his path as a Christian has been filled with challenges and obstacles throughout the years.
Before achieving legendary status as a cultural icon, renowned for his unmistakable mustache, Selleck’s early ventures encompassed college basketball and intermittent appearances in Pepsi commercials and episodes of The Dating Game. During his formative years, he wholeheartedly pursued a business degree and aspired to join a management-training program with United Airlines. However, as his love for acting intensified, Selleck faced a defining moment that propelled him to make a life-altering decision: embracing a career in the entertainment industry. This pivotal choice, meticulously chronicled by Parade, would shape his destiny and pave the way for his remarkable journey in show business.
After completing his college education, Twentieth Century Fox offered Selleck an acting contract. Despite this tempting opportunity, he felt that God had a different calling for him at the time. Selleck chose to heed God’s voice and entered the army.
Nurtured by parents who ingrained the principles of the U.S. Military during his formative years, Selleck blossomed into an individual who embodied not only the role of an actor but also that of a veteran and a person of unwavering integrity, all due to their influential mentorship.
During the Vietnam War, Selleck received draft orders and enlisted in the California National Guard’s 160th Infantry Regiment. He faithfully served his country from 1967 to 1973, even becoming the face of California National Guard recruiting posters.
The impact of Selleck’s military journey left an enduring impression on his existence, and he fondly reflects on his service with an overwhelming sense of pride. Affirming his veteran status, Selleck confidently proclaims, “I am proud to be a veteran.” Having served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army infantry during the Vietnam era, within the National Guard, he recognizes the profound camaraderie that unites all those who have served, referring to them as “brothers and sisters” in a deeply meaningful sense.
Upon completing his service, Selleck returned to his acting career. However, it was his iconic role as Thomas Magnum that catapulted him to stardom and forever changed his life. Even amidst this newfound fame, he remained attentive to God’s guidance.
Selleck shares a profound insight, stating, “While a person’s heart may envision their path, it is the Lord who guides their footsteps.” He encourages humility, emphasizing the significance of surrendering oneself to the might of God’s hand, as it is through this surrender that one can experience elevation at the appointed time.
In 1980, Selleck took another significant hiatus from acting to focus on his marriage. Throughout his journey, he consistently attributes all his achievements in life to Jesus Christ, whom he reveres as his Lord and Savior.
Selleck emphasizes that conducting himself ethically has always been paramount to him. He firmly believes that true success stems from aligning one’s heart with righteous principles. While individuals may plan their own paths, Selleck affirms that it is God who ultimately guides their steps.
“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps,” shares Selleck. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
Tom Selleck’s story stands as a powerful testament to the profound impact of faith in one’s life. From his early aspirations as a college athlete to his military service and eventual rise to stardom, Selleck consistently acknowledges Jesus Christ as the driving force behind his accomplishments. His unwavering dedication to living a life of integrity serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us that success is not solely measured by fame and fortune, but by the values we uphold and the faith that guides us.