Seahawks' Russell Wilson Relies on Faith Midst Criticism Following Divorce, Remains Active with Charities

May 23, 2014 01:39 PM EDT

Seattle Seahawk's QB Russell Wilson remains active with charities
Russell Wilson visited the Seattle Children's Hospital along with popular rapper Mackelmore (Photo: Russell Wilson/Facebook)

Russell Wilson has never been afraid to share the gospel, both on and off the football field.

However, following the saddening news that the Seattle Seahawk's QB and his wife of two years had filed for divorce,  Wilson experienced a slew of online criticism from Christians and non-Christians alike despite asking for prayer and privacy

"I know devout Christians get divorced, too, but that part of it added to my surprise, however naïve that might be," wrote ESPN blogger Jim Moore.

"Wilson is such an influential Christian player," mourned another blogger. "I fear the criticism he will face following this news will make him hesitant to discuss his faith."

Although he has not spoken publically about his divorce following since announcement, Wilson, who led the Seahawks to win the Super Bowl in February, reveals a great deal about himself on Twitter to his 794,000 followers.

"Nobody told me the road would be easy," he said in a tweet earlier this month. "I don't believe He brought me this far to leave me."

Concerning his faith, however, NFL star has not backed down, remaining vocal about his passion for Christ.

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NKJV)," he tweeted earlier today.

Earlier, he posted, "Ignore the noise," and "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32 NIV)"

In addition to remaining active with his charity, The Power of Mind Foundation, Wilson has actively worked with the Seattle Children's Hospital and raised awareness for diabetes during the football off-season. He also recently visited the White House along with his teammates, posting that it was a "pleasure" to meet President Obama.

Earlier this month, Wilson bowled with The City Church lead pastor Judah Smith following a church service, posting a photo of himself with the pastor and pop star Justin Bieber on Instagram.

"Russell wants to surround himself with those who will encourage him in his walk with Christ during this time," revealed a member of The City Church. "He is serious about his faith and wants to do what is right."

Despite weathering the pain of divorce, the Seahawk's star says he finds his strength in the power of the gospel.

"#BVD Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer," he posted on his Facebook. "...You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you."