champion life magazine fall 2011
DESCRIPTION
CLM's Purpose is to Equip People To Live Successful Christian Lives. The Fall 2011 issue features: Living on Purpose - by Kevin Gerald, What Do You Want? - by Jodi Gerald-Cameron, Finding Yourself - by the team at Champions Centre, To Be Continued - by Kevin Gerald, Champions Foundation Update, and Real Life Champions - Larry & Billie Norris.TRANSCRIPT
FALL 2011M A G A Z I N E
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Tacoma 253 • 475 • 6454
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Champion Life Magazine
purposes to equip
people to live successful
Christian lives.
ABOUT US
For we are Gods
workmanship,
created in Christ
Jesus to do good
works which God
prepared in advance
for us to do.
— Ephesians 2:10
8 Living on Purpose by Kevin Gerald
1 6 What Do You Want ? by Jodi Gerald-Cameron
2 4 Finding Yourself by Champions Centre Team
I N T H E K N O W
6 25 Year Tribute
2 0 Champions Foundation Update
I N E V E R Y I S S U E
3 Let’s Talk
4 You to Us
1 4 Champion Finds
2 6 Real Life Champions
2 8 k. Wise
FE
AT
UR
ES
16
Fall 2011 | 1
ExEcUTivE PUbLiSHERS
Kevin Gerald & Sheila Gerald
EDiTOR-iN-cHiEF
Jodi Gerald-Cameron
SENiOR PROjEcT MANAgER Jen Mueller
ART DiREcTOR Dallas Drotz, Drotz Design
cONTRibUTiNg EDiTORS Abbie Buck, Corianne Burton,
Andrea Dashiell, Kim Ludwick, Stephanie Jannsen, Raelynn Poulin,
Leslie Powell, Elizabeth Woody, Judi Shackett, Mark Stewart
cONTRibUTiNg PHOTOgRAPHy J. Hobson Photography
cONTRibUTiNg gRAPHic DESigN Venessa Koehn & Mickey Elliott
cONTRibUTiNg WRiTERS Kevin Gerald, Jodi Gerald-Cameron,
Mica Griggs, Sue Kahawaii, Robin McCoy, Steve Shackett,
Brandon Stewart
DiSTRibUTiON Kim Ludwick
PRODUcER Champion Life Magazine is produced by Kevin Gerald
Communications (KGC). KGC is a department of Champions
Centre in Tacoma | Bellevue, WA, a non-profit organization.
TO SUbScRibE
www.championscentre.com
Phone: (toll-free) 888-935-6914
TO SPONSOR If you are a business who would like to partner with
our magazine through distribution or sponsorship please contact
us at: 253-475-6454 x361
QUESTiONS / cOMMENTS / iDEAS Let us know. We welcome your
feedback. Please write us at: [email protected]
Champion Life Editorial
1819 E. 72nd St.
Tacoma, WA 98404
Produced by Champions Centre Publishing © 2011. All Rights
Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without expressed
written permission is prohibited and a violation of applicable laws.
2011 copyright
Printed by Capitol City Press
148th Ave.coffee shop
N O W O P E NShort walk from Bellevue College
(Entrance of college, Landerholm & 148th Ave)
Follow us on
Let’s taLk
as We HeaD INtO tHe FINaL seasON OF tHIs YeaR, I’m so excited for what God has
in store. Sheila and I have been celebrating 25 years in ministry this year, and we are proudly declaring
that the best we have done is not the best we can do! Now is the time for us to press on into the
future that God has for us.
Have you ever considered that God has a purpose for you? He created you with certain strengths,
skills and passions. I recently challenged our church family with this thought, and then
compelled them to find their flow. I asked them to finish this statement: “I’m
in my flow when...” To do this, you simply need to find out what comes
naturally to you. What do you do without much thought? Find this, and
you will find your flow. You can read more about this, and get tips on how
to find your flow, in Living on Purpose (Page 10).
When presented with a God-destiny, too often people focus on
what it will cost them rather than focusing on what they can gain.
On page 23, you will find an article titled, Finding Yourself. If you
haven’t noticed yet, this entire issue is dedicated to steering your
thoughts toward God’s plan for your life. When you get to the point
where you are ready to embrace all that He has for you, get ready
to experience God in an entirely new way!
“It’s not about how you look but rather how you see.” Your talents
and abilities were given to you not for your own gain, but to add
value to someone else. Your purpose can be the answer to
someone else’s need. Everything that is within our
ability to do, we must do. We must celebrate the fact
that all of our abilities come from God our Creator,
who entrusted us with gifts and talents to glorify
and honor Him above everything else. And the
truth is, sometimes our own desires can be the key
to igniting our God-given purpose. Get inspired to
ask yourself the often underestimated question
What Do You Want? on page 16.
As you read this issue, remember that our
collective purpose is to take God with us into
the world that is more than ready to receive
Him. Let’s not be silent—let's take action and
go after all that God has promised for us.
Fall 2011 | 3
We want to hear from you!
Please write us at: [email protected] Mail: Champion Life Editorial, 1819 E. 72nd St., Tacoma, WA 98404
YOU to Us
THANK YOU everyone for your over the top love/generosity. It's been the best week of my life in ministry...now we launch the second half. — @kevingerald This song seems to be our theme song. Its been 25 years since @kevingerald & I moved to the Northwest. "Never Once… ♫” — @sheilagerald I plan to preach on favor later this year. @kevingerald has a great series on the subject going on right now. Thx Kev, it's blessing me... — @stevenfurtick
@kevingerald is the greatest communicator of HONOUR I have ever heard... #authenticlife — @DarleneZschech
Wow—just got out of a meeting with some of the @ccbellevue team, & we are doing something FUN & CRAZY at the end of Sept at both campuses. Love it! — @jod1gc
@kevingerald @Sheilagerald thank you for your courage to lead a relevant life altering church it allows so many of us to find purpose in God. — @toddgriggs
Our church staff reading for September is the book "Forces That Form Your Future", very pumped to then share with True North. — @TrueNorthNJ
Even when you feel unappreciated or not needed...Stay in the place God puts you. Don't let the wrong thing drive you out of the right place. — @kevingerald
Twitter Poll--We asked: “Titus 2:10 (NIV) tells us to make the teaching about God our Savior attractive. Finish this—"We make God attractive when...?”
We make Christ attractive when we don't have to tell people we are Christians...they just know by our actions. — @BIG_LUis
When we are able to win games but still be humble. — @codyshackett
I make Christ attractive when I see the best in people and circumstances, consistently. — @amberperi
When I'm willing to go out of my way for someone that I may not even know. — @tysonramsdell
First of all, congratulations on 25 years!
Secondly, I loved reading the article
on ‘Momentum’ in the Summer Issue.
There is such a feeling of momentum
at Champions Centre and I love being
along for the ride. There’s no where else
I’d rather be! —josh b.
Thank you for your Real Life Champion
stories. I always flip right to this section
of the magazine to see whose story
was featured. This last issue, the story
from Steven and Autumn was so great.
It's just good to know that there are
real people, living real lives that are
committed to the cause of Christ. It's
so encouraging! —Diane A.
I have finally found a church where
I feel so comfortable. I can't wait to
go back. I want to thank all of you for
being so kind and warm. It was because
of this I made the decision to make
Champions Centre my home.
—Thomas S.
Thank you for the ability to share
the magazine and messages with
others who may never look it up for
themselves. With just a 'click' you could
send a video off to a friend. I sent
"Be Brave" to two people who I know
needed to hear it as much as I did. And
talk about being timely, a message that
was given three years ago ministered to
me right here, right now! —gail K.
Champions Centre Tweets
Here are some of the
recent online tweets we’ve
seen about Champions
Centre in 140 characters or less. Join the
conversation at twitter.com.
Comments from our readers:
4 | Champion Life Magazine
THE MEMbERS FROM PEOPLES cHURcH AND MERiDiAN cHRiSTiAN MiNiSTRiES
WHO HAvE bEEN ON THE jOURNEy ALONg SiDE US FOR 25 yEARS.
thanks to the many volunteers and friends who have been with us over the last 25 years. We are looking ahead to the future, because the best we have done is not the best we can do.
The best is yet to come.
6 | Champion Life Magazine
0:06 / :45
WATcH THE viDEO ONLiNE »
Congratulations on 25 years
Champions Centre! And a
big thank you to Pastors
Kevin and Sheila Gerald for
their tireless commitment to
the house and God's calling
on their lives. You are making a difference in the
Northwest, so grateful you are here. MELiSSA H.
Thank you Pastors Kevin and Sheila, for allowing me
the honor to serve at Champions Centre. TANZ c.
We don't tell you guys near enough how much we love
and appreciate you. I am so thankful for you, who you
are as a person and as our
pastors, your leadership and
your vision for God's house.
I am so excited and honored
to be a part of a growing
church that just keeps on
getting better through the
years. DARLA R.
I love my Pastors Kevin
& Sheila. They are some
of the most generous &
empowering people a
young leader could hope
for. bRANDON S.
Pastors Kevin & Sheila
- Congratulations on 25
years and thank you for the incredible impact on mine
& Debbie's life. We love you! jAMES g.
Congrats to Kevin & Sheila on 25 years of pastoring
Champion Centre. Your wisdom & compassion is
unmatched. Love ya! MARcUS M.
To my Pastors Kevin & Sheila—thank you for investing
into me as a kid and now my kids. Claiming my next 62
generations serving God's House! jESSicA j.
Congratulations to Kevin & Sheila on 25 years of
ministry in the Northwest. Great leaders. Great friends.
We love you guys! KiRK b.
Happy 25 years to Champions Centre and the amazing
Geralds. LEON F.
Happy 25 years of ministry anniversary to Kevin &
Sheila! Your family & ministry is an inspiration to us!
We love you both! EARL M.
Kevin, thank you for being the leader that you are
& staying committed to advancing the local church!
Excited for the next 25 years! jONATHAN O.
Kevin & Sheila—I adore you
both; Grateful to have married
into a family committed to
your vision as well. My biggest
blessing. cORiANNE b.
Happy 25 years of ministry!
You two are incredible! So
blessed & honored to be part
of the church family! LiZ b.
We absolutely love you guys—
your next 25 will be a season
of much harvest as seed sown
comes to full blown fruit.
cHARLOTTE g.
Thank you for making a way so generations of my
descendants will follow jumping & leaping & praising
God, grateful! MicA g.
What an honor to walk by you both. Thanks for
sticking it out so I can carry the legacy to my family,
here's to the next 25 years, heart and soul. TiNiA N.
Thank you Kevin & Sheila for everything! I am so
grateful that I get to be a part of what God is doing
through you! LUiS R.
PASTORS KEviN & SHEiLA ARE HONORED by cLOSE FRiENDS PASTORS TERRy & jUDiTH cRiST DURiNg Tc 2011
Fall 2011 | 7
F YOU STOOD AT A FREEWAY AND WATCHED THE
THOUSANDS OF VEHICLES GO BY, YOU WOULD SEE A
LOT OF VARIETY: different types, makes, models—all created for a specific reason. There are small economy cars, mid-size cars, fast cars, family cars, minivans, small work trucks, utility trucks, big transport trucks, dump trucks., trucks with 4-wheel drive, recreation
vehicles, buses. Each one serves a specific purpose. Each automaker can tell you the purpose of the various types and models of vehicles that you see on the road. And while we’re on the subject of variety, what about other types of vehicles? Someone could ask, “If we have cars, why do we have airplanes?” I can tell you this—the people who build airplanes know why they’re building airplanes and not cars.
I could go on and on. Aside from cars, trucks and planes,
we’ve got boats. And what about bulldozers? Cranes?
And battle vehicles, like tanks and Humvees? Each and
every one of these things are created for a very specific
purpose, and each purpose may be different from the
next. But one thing is for sure—they all serve a purpose.
Purpose is defined as the reason for which something exists.
Many people are on a slippery slope psychologically.
They are disconnected from God’s plan and purpose
for their lives. They live empty, unfulfilling, unrewarding
lives. Experts say Americans are experiencing an
unprecedented amount of what they call “psychological
misery”. Some cold, hard facts for you:
• It’s estimated that by the year 2020, depression will
rank 2nd in major illnesses, next to heart disease.
• About 14.8 million adults in the U.S. suffer from
depression.
• In young people, suicide is the 3rd leading cause
of death.
8 | Champion Life Magazine
The cure for this epidemic of depression is for
people to get reconnected to the idea that they
are alive for a reason bigger than themselves.
People are desperately in need of a true and
genuine sense of purpose for their lives; a
reason to exist. I can assure you of one thing: NO ONE knows
the purpose of something as well as its CREATOR. Just like the
automakers know the purpose of the cars they are designing, so
does God—our creator—know the purpose for each and every
one of us. So knowing what God says about purpose is the right
place to start in knowing your purpose. Here are a couple things
to remember:
1. Know that you have a PurposeRecently, we asked a handful of people on the street two
questions: “Do you believe in God?” And then, “Do you believe
He has a purpose for your life?” A lot of people believe in God,
but a lot of people don’t think that God has a purpose for their
life. Belief in God, and knowing His plan for your life, are two very
different things.
Scripture says: for we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ
Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to
do (Ephesians 2:10). How are we not sure that we were meant—
designed, even—with purpose in mind? We have solid assurance
in the Word of God—He has a purpose for our lives. We have
scriptures like this in our hands to validate us, to assure us, and to
proclaim to us that God has a purpose for each and every one of
us. It’s time for us to get motivated for change. Do you sense that
you’ve settled into a place you were only intended to pass through
- or that life is slipping by and you don’t feel as if you’ve been
living intentionally? Get motivated to change the way you
think! So often, we create ceilings in our lives because of
the way we program ourselves - and we will continue to hit
those ceilings until we resolve to make the change within us. We
have to know that we have a God-designed purpose for waking up
every morning; a purpose far beyond merely just existing... And we
have to know that we have the ability and call on our lives to walk
and live in that purpose, each and every day.
Link up with purposeful people in your life. If you’re wondering
how you move from where you are to a more purpose-filled life, I
will tell you this: you don’t do it alone! Get connected with people
who are being intentional with their lives. Like Proverbs 13:20
says: “He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion
of fools suffers harm.” >>
I asked people on social
networking to fill in the
blank for me, regarding
themselves: “I am in my
flow when .”
The answers were
phenomenal.
“I’m in my flow when I am
networking and meeting people.”
“I am in my flow when I am
bringing order to chaos.”
“I am in my flow when I am
collaborating and
encouraging others.”
“I am in my flow when I am
writing songs to connect people
to God.”
“I am in my flow when I’m writing
something that is hard to
verbalize.”
“ I’m in my flow when I am
helping men manage lust.”
“I’m in my flow when I am
improvising, creating,
rehearsing, performing,
strategizing, assimilating.”
0:06 / :45
WATcH THE viDEO ONLiNE »
Fall 2011 | 9
2. Identify YourPrimary Purpose
The search for purpose has the
ability to turn into hyper self-
focus. If we’re not careful, when
we start to think about why we
are here, we can head down a
road of excessive self-analysis.
The search to uncover your
purpose becomes more about you. We become
introspective, analyzing ourselves from every
angle. Remember, in identifying your purpose:
Your primary, overall purpose is still to glorify
God . . . whatever you do, in work or in deed.
• Sowhetheryoueatordrinkorwhatever
youdo,doitallforthegloryofGod.
— 1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV
• Foreverything,absolutelyeverything,
aboveandbelow,visibleandinvisible,
everythinggotstartedinHimandfinds
itspurposeinHim.
— Colossians 1:16 MSG
• EverythingcomesfromGodalone,
everythinglivingbyHispower,and
everythingisforHisGlory.
— Romans 11:36 LB
•
Think about it like this, all instruments
are created with one common
purpose in mind—to make music.
A guitar is different from the
piano, which is different from
the saxophone, which is different
from a drum or a cello, but they
ALL are designed by their creators to
accomplish one goal: making music. In
the same way, first and foremost, you and
I are instruments; a music-maker . . . designed to
glorify God! “Do whatever your hands find to do,
and do it with all your heart as unto the
Lord.” (Colossians 3:23)
3. Excel in your personal Purpose --Your FlowOnce you know that you
have a purpose, and that
your primary
purpose is to
glorify God, then
it’s time to be
the best at being
you. God spent an
enormous amount
of energy to make
you—so don’t spend
your energy trying to be
someone else! Let’s go back
to the instrument analogy, if
you’re an instrument—what’s
your sound? In other words, what are your
strengths? How are you wired? Don’t get hung up on
trying to be someone else—a different instrument—
when you are designed otherwise. Be you! Use what
you have received to serve others. Do you make
people laugh? Bring people joy? Do you love to
help people in trouble, or are you assigned to serve
someone with a great talent or gift (like Jonathan to
David)? Are you an advocate—a voice
for those who have no voice?
Are you a writer? Musician?
A wealth creator; a gifted
financial supporter?
Think about the “whatever scriptures”:
10 | Champion Life Magazine
Do what you were created to do, but don’t do it
solely for money, recognition, or to get noticed—
your flow, your purpose, it isn’t about any of those
things. Do it to add value, from the grace God put
on your life.
When are YOU in your flow?
Now, don’t confuse your flow with your job
responsibilities—your flow transcends a job
description. Your purpose is not to be a banker,
or a flight attendant—your purpose goes beyond
those titles. There are a lot of things about being
a pastor I don’t like; things that are not in my
flow. But my flow is something that carries over,
and is something I do not only do as a pastor,
but also in everyday life as a dad, a friend and
husband. I’m in my flow when
I’m locating and
co m m u n i c a t i n g
wisdom. That happens
when I’m “on the job” but it also happens with
whatever I’m doing because it’s my personal
purpose. Your flow is what you do easily,
naturally and wherever you are—whether it’s
at work, at home, or at church. Your flow is
something you do well—maybe even better
than most. God has a specific grace on your life
to do what He put you on earth to do. When
you’re outside of your “grace zone” it will feel
awkward and uncomfortable . . . like David
putting on Saul’s armor. However, when
you’re in your Grace Zone—in your flow—
you may only be equipped with one sling
shot, but you are able to defeat Giants! Your
flow brings you fulfillment and satisfaction. Your
flow is a strength that others will see and validate.
Your flow may be obvious to you, or it may be
something that takes some careful consideration
and reflection. If you’re still searching for yours,
spend some time and think about it tomorrow as
you go about you day:
“I’m in my flow when .” >>
“I’m in my flow when I’m locating and communicating wisdom."
Champion Find:Summer of the Ant
Find it at kevingerald.tv
Fall 2011 | 11
is the lead pastor of Champions
Centre in Tacoma and Bellevue, WA.
For great resources from Kevin,
visit kevingerald.tv.
Kevin Gerald
We have to know that we have a God-designed purpose for waking up every morning; a purpose far beyond merely just existing.I pray that you would be blessed with a fresh sense of
anticipation for your life inside your flow. Raise your
expectations. So often people get bogged down and
discouraged because they let disappointments and
setbacks steal their anticipation for what God has in
store for them in their future. Don’t lose sight of the
promises of God! Tough times steal your hope and
diminish expectation for what God can and will do
in and through your life. Lift up your eyes; remember
what God has done for others, and what He will do
for you!
12 | Champion Life Magazine
CHaMPION FINDsEFFORTS AND COURAGE ARE NOT ENOUGH WITHOUT PURPOSE AND DIRECTION. -JOHN F. KENNEDY
PODcASTiNg
Download or subscribe to free podcast episodes from Kevin Gerald and Champions Centre on iTunes. Video streaming and MP3 downloads available on kevingerald.tv.
14 | Champion Life Magazine
Pardon Me, i’m Prospering
(Book; 4 CDs, DVD)
Don’t feel like you need to apologize for
having or wanting a blessed, prosperous
life! This 10th anniversary edition reminds
us that prosperity is a Bible word and is not
something to be ashamed of in our lives.
Tc 2011: Team church conference 2011
(16 CDs; DVD)
Team Church Conference is where lives are
drastically transformed and teams learn practi-
cal tools that build the Kingdom of God. Listen
again and again to the inspiration and wisdom
from two full days and three nights of TC 2011.
Honor Revolution
(2 CDs; DVD)
God called His people to lead a
revolution of honor—beginning
with, and flowing from the
house of God. You too, can be
a carrier and communicator of
honor: Honor up, honor down
and honor all around!
Forces That Form your Future (Book; 6 CDs, DVD, Small Group)The will of God is not "whatever happens" and "whatever happens" is not necessarily the will of God. There are nine forces at work in your life that are forming your future. In this powerful series, Kevin Gerald shows how you can choose to use these forces to your advantage and create opportunities of a lifetime.
Summer of the Ant
(6 CDs; DVD)
The wisest man, Solomon, told us
to go to the ant and learn from
its wisdom. In this series, discover
the anatomy of the ant from our
perspective: Purposeful, Partnership,
Preparation, Productive, Provision,
Persistent and Participation.
First Love
(4 CDs; DVD)
Have you lost your first love? Love
has a tendency to grow cold. This
can happen in any relationship, it
can happen in your relationship
with God, it happens with church,
or in your marriage. Falling in love
is the easy part, staying in love
is the challenge! Whatever your
situation is, return to your first love.
The Proving ground
(Book; 3 CDs)
God will require each of us to prove
our potential at one level before
being promoted to the next. In this
book (and audio series) from Kevin
Gerald, discover the nine tests that
prove your personal potential.
Every church has a culture
(Book)
You can be intentional about creating
the right God-given culture for your
church. This book is intended to help
both pastors and members engage
in the never-ending process of
creating a purposeful church culture.
253.475.6454 ext. 361888.935.6914kevingerald.tv
RESOURcE yOURSELF AT KEviNgERALD.Tv
Go online to find a wealth of resources, including free wisdom tips from Kevin
Gerald and mp3s of messages.
Fall 2011 | 15
HAVE YOU EVER SAT DOWN AT A RESTAURANT AND BEEN ASKED BY THE WAITER, “WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ORDER?” I remember the first few times I went
to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner; they have close to 200 menu
items from salads to omelets to tacos to burgers to pizzas to pastas,
plus, three or four pages dedicated to an assortment of cheesecakes
and other luxurious desserts. (I think you get the idea.) I felt completely
overwhelmed by the selection being offered but I needed to figure out
what I wanted. If such a simple question like, “What do you want?” can
become overwhelming at a dinner table, how much more complex can
it become in life? At first glance it seems harmless enough, but it takes
some people a lifetime to figure it out.
There's a great story in the Bible about a man named Nehemiah.
Here's a quick history lesson to put Nehemiah’s passion in perspective:
In 586 BC, a king named Nebuchadnezzar invaded Judah, captured
Jerusalem, and took many of the Jewish survivors back to Babylon.
Nearly 50 years later, a Jew named Zerubbabel led the first remnant
back to Jerusalem to rebuild the city. The temple was rebuilt in 516 BC,
but the wall of Jerusalem was still in ruins by 445 BC. So Jerusalem
was defenseless against her enemies. That is when a Jewish cupbearer
(enter Nehemiah), living a world away in Babylon, got a crazy idea.
Nehemiah heard the news that the city had been destroyed and even
though he had never been there himself, he was so distraught at the
news that he wept, prayed and fasted. Then, in the second chapter of
his autobiography we see these five incredible verses in which he is
asked the very question we began with: What is it that you want?
WHAT DO YOU WANT?BY JODI GERALD-CAMERON
“In the month of Nisan in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was brought for him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had not been sad in his presence before; so the king asked me, "Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart." I was very much afraid, but I said to the king, "May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my fathers are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?" The king said to me, "What is it you want?" Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, "If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my fathers are buried so that I can rebuild it." — Nehemiah 2:1-5
16 | Champion Life Magazine
WHAT DO YOU WANT?So, here's the deal: This king—King Artaxerxes—
was the most powerful man in the known world.
And, Nehemiah was a cupbearer—a servant—who
was given an extraordinary opportunity. And he
immediately seized that moment and communicated
exactly what he wanted. What does this story have
to do with you and me and what we want? Here's a
couple things I've learned:
The chances are high that Nehemiah had similar fears
to what we face. Things like: what if this doesn't work
out? What if I fail? What if they don't understand?
What if I mess this up? And yet, since Nehemiah knew
what he wanted he pushed past his fears and
spoke up. Nehemiah was just doing his job. The
King noticed he was a bit upset and Nehemiah
decided to be honest and put out his request. It
would have been so easy for Nehemiah to stay
comfortable in his great job working closely with a
powerful king; he probably had nice living quarters
and good food and lifelong friends all around him.
But, he was drawn to a greater and higher cause
so he pushed the fear of the unknown away and
told the king what he wanted.
Great things can be born out of disaster, great
opportunities can come out of hardships. If you've
been in a struggle just remember that the best of
things can come through the worst of times. In fact,
God is at his best when life is at its worst. Even if you
don't know the full answer to “what you want,” try to
identify something and start moving! Now is not the
time to shrink back. Ask yourself, what would you do
if money was no object? What would you do if you
knew you couldn't fail?
The initial decision-making process can be what
paralyzes people in the beginning. A person feels like,
if I get going somewhere and I'm wrong, I'll mess it up
forever. Some people can be afraid of clarity because
then it eliminates all the other options. Whatever it is
we're afraid of, if we can get even a glimpse of what
we want for our future it will give us the motivation
we need to push past the fear.
1People who know what they want push past fear.
“. . . I WAS VERY MUCH AFRAID, BUT I SAID TO THE KING . . .” — NEHEMIAH 2:2-3
2People who know what they want are ready when the
opportunity comes to tell you what they want exactly.
“THE KING SAID TO ME, "WHAT IS IT YOU WANT?" THEN I PRAYED...” — NEHEMIAH 2:4-5, 7-8 >>
Fall 2011 | 17
We'll never be sure if this prayer was a brief prayer for
courage and wisdom, or if he went away and prayed for
a length of time, but he seemed ready with an answer
fairly quickly. Here's a snapshot of what Nehemiah was
asking, and he was pretty specific so he must have
taken some time to think this through:
Step 1: Convince the king to allow me to leave his
service in order to rebuild the wall around a city that,
in years past, posed a military threat to this area.
Step 2: Convince the king to lend financial
support to the building project.
Step 3: Procure letters from the king to the
governors in the surrounding areas asking them to
provide me safe conduct along the way.
Step 4: Work out a deal with Asaph, keeper of
the king’s forest, to procure enough lumber to build
the city gates as well as a home for me.
Step 5: Ask king for the title of Governor of Judah.
Step 6: Organize and equip the inhabitants of
Jerusalem.
Step 7: Begin Construction.
Interesting isn't it? Nehemiah not only pushed past
any fear he had, but he was also able to articulate a
detailed answer when asked the question, “What is it
you want?”
It is worth the time and energy it takes to know what
you want. It's so easy to get pulled off course or get
distracted in life when we haven't taken the time to
answer this question. In fact, many of our
problems are just by-products of not
being able to answer this question.
We don't know what we
want. We've either
never defined or simply
forgotten our goals,
values, and passions
so we're out of
touch with our heart's desires. When we're reacting
to life instead of having a proactive approach to
life, we end up frustrated and disappointed instead
of happy and fulfilled. And, for a lot of people their
RESPONSIBILITIES HAVE NUMBED THEM TO THE POSSIBILITIES AROUND THEM AND THE PASSIONS WITHIN THEM. If we can take some cues from
this guy Nehemiah— he knew exactly what he wanted.
A passion had been conceived. He had been praying
and thinking about it for several days or weeks or
months while going about his everyday life until the
King posed the question. But when the opportunity
came, he was ready for it. ‘Prepare yourself and your
day will come’ is how Abraham Lincoln said it. Take the
time now to ask yourself the hard questions and be
prepared so that when your day of opportunity comes
you'll be ready!
3People who know what they want receive backing
and favor from God.
“AND THE KING GRANTED THESE REQUESTS, BECAUSE THE GRACIOUS HAND OF GOD WAS ON ME.”
— NEHEMIAH 2:8 (NLT)
God is not the author of confusion. One of the biggest
hindrances of seeing God move in our lives (in the form
of his favor) is the lack of clarity we have for our own
lives. Nehemiah prayed for favor before he even had
an audience with the king (Nehemiah 1:11). Nehemiah
hoped that the king would feel something when he
heard about the plight of the Jews in Jerusalem—it
PSALM- And he will give you the desires of your heart.- I'm going God's way, not my own way...
18 | Champion Life Magazine
was a long shot, because the king was not known to
be a compassionate man. He knew that unless God
intervened on the king's heart, there was no way in the
world that King Artaxerxes would feel sympathetic
toward Israel. After all, kings who preceded him were
the ones who tore the city apart to begin with. So,
Nehemiah prayed for God to sway the heart of the
king, and God did it! King Artaxerxes became a
primary player in the reconstruction of the wall in
Jerusalem. If God could sway the heart of that king to
finance the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem,
he can certainly change the heart of those who stand
between you and the purpose God has given you.
Even Jesus asked people when he walked the planet,
“What can I do for you?” I believe he still asks that
question to us today. Heaven is like the king asking
you “What do you want?”
It is God who works in you to will and to act according
to his good purpose (Philipians 2:13). When I was
growing up, what I wanted to “do” changed several
times. At one point I wanted to be a doctor, then a
nutritionist, a coach, a business owner, an athlete,
and, then a pastor. Plans changed along the way, but
looking back I can see a common thread—I always
wanted to use my voice and influence to help people.
Even though I didn't know exactly what I wanted all
the time, I figured out what I wanted in those seasons
of my life and got moving in a positive direction.
THE PRIMARY REASON MOST OF US DON'T SEE GOD MOVING IS SIMPLY BECAUSE WE AREN'T MOVING.
See, most of us want God to provide some kind
of miraculous sign before we commit . . . have you
ever been there before? But it doesn't always work
like that.
Our friend Nehemiah didn't wait for a sign. He had
the courage to put his job (and, really his life) on the
line in front of the king that day. And when he did,
God confirmed the passion with signs following. The
king didn't just write him a nice reference, the king
basically wrote him a blank check.
I've learned that more often than not, faith doesn't
follow signs, but instead, signs follow faith. It is a biblical
pattern. And, I've seen it several times in my own life.
From seventh grade on I knew I wanted to get a full ride
basketball scholarship to a large university. I not only
visualized it constantly, but it got me up in the morning
before school to practice once I got into high school, and
it kept me late after scheduled practices at night, I was
recruiting my parents and friends to rebound for me so I
could practice my shot for hours—and when no one was
available I would shoot baskets alone for hours. When
I decided to entertain the idea of attending Western
Washington University and agreed to tryout for the
team they were only offering me a partial scholarship.
By the time the tryout was over, I’d had one of the most
amazing shooting days of my entire life (before or after!)
that day, and following the tryout the coaches took me
to dinner and offered me a full ride scholarship. I acted
first in faith and signs followed.
What I'm trying to say is, just do something and
watch God follow up your faith with His favor. See if
you can answer the question for your life, “What do
you want?” If you don't have the answer just yet, don't
give up your search but also don't stop moving! Allow
God to show up in your life by doing what you can do
with what you have on your way to finding out what
it is that you want. And, once you discover what you
want I believe you’ll be able to push past fears, seize
the opportunities set before you, and live in God’s
constant and increasing favor.
Jodi Gerald-Cameron lives her life out loud. With her
experiences in the athletic world, a BA in Management
and raised in a household of strong leadership, Jodi’s
passion is to inspire wholeness in everyone she meets. Fall 2011 | 19
CHaMPIONs FOUNDatION UPDate
Habitat for Humanity (Hope)Local neighborhoods are restored through our partnership with Paint Tacoma Beautiful, Habitat for Humanity, and other organizations that assist with cleaning up blighted communities, parks and schools. By the transformation of just one home on a block, we inspire the neighbors to also take steps to improve their own homes and yards.
Seattle Homeless Outreach (Hope)Each month, our teams serve
hundreds of meals to homeless
men and women on the streets
of Seattle through our Seattle
Homeless Outreach. We offer
HOPE to the hurting each
month as well as practical
support through distribution
of donated clothing, hygiene
and first aid items.
Tree House at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital (Hope)Through our partnership with the
Tree House at Mary Bridge Children’s
Hospital our volunteers prepare and
serve meals to families who have a child
with a serious illness. The Tree House is
their temporary home away from home,
allowing them to stay near their child
during the hospitalization. Not only
are we providing home cooked meals,
we offer a temporary respite from the
stress they are undergoing.
Tacoma Rescue Mission (Hope)Once a month, our volunteers visit the Tacoma Rescue Mission, another one of our partner organizations. Meals are prepared and served to residents of the New Life program, as well as hundreds of homeless individuals and families in Tacoma, WA.
This year, we purposed to bring
HOPE, FAITH, COMPASSION
and EDUCATION to our world. We were able to partner with several local and international ministries that allowed as many
people as possible to be a part of
what we are doing. We invite you
to consider how you can become a partner with the Champions
Foundation. championsfoundation.com
20 | Champion Life Magazine
Champions Forever Home (Compassion)The Champions Forever Home is located in Johannesburg, South Africa and was dedicated to serving the needs of children who have been orphaned or abandoned due to the AIDS pandemic. Sub-Sahara Africa has an estimated 12 million children who have no adult to care for them. Compassion is also offered through our response to world-wide disasters, as we give financially to agencies on the ground that are in the best position to respond immediately to the needs of survivors.
American English Academy (Education)In Sofia, Bulgaria we partner with AEA as they serve to bring a first class education to children and teens who will one day be making the decisions that will change and improve their nation’s culture.
End Human Trafficking (Education)We partner with Shared Hope international and RapeforProfit who help us educate people about modern day slavery and human trafficking.
Together we make a difference (Faith)Faith can move mountains, and we help inspire faith by supporting Los Angeles Dream Center, Samaritans Purse, World Vision, and other faith based groups that are changing the world around them.
HOPEOur vision is to bring HOPE to our local community.
FAITHOur vision is to inspire FAITH around the world.
COMPASSIONOur vision is to deliver COMPASSION to people in need everywhere.
EDUCATIONOur vision is to promote EDUCATION and bring awareness to issues of the day.
Back to School Bash (Hope)Throughout the year we partner with Pierce County Foster Care Alliance as we host several parties and special events for foster children, such as the Back to School Bash. At this event, hundreds of foster kids not only receive all of their school supplies and back-packs, they also enjoy free haircuts, barbecue lunch, face painting, and getting to play on giant bouncy toys and playground as well.
Justice Project (Hope)Our Justice Project Team visits
widows who are without family
members to assist them. The
special projects teams clean up
overgrown yards, help organize
and clean homes and complete
minor home repairs.
Cascade Regional Blood Services (Hope)We are able to help in our community through several blood drives each year by partnering with Cascade Regional Blood Services. By setting up mobile donation stations, we make it convenient for people to donate. So many lives can be saved through this one act of generosity.
Fall 2011 | 21
Finding your Purpose in
life is not only important,
it’s necessary to enable
you to fulfill your life’s
goals and dreams. Each
of us has a Purpose in
life if it’s only to please
and serve the Father. Over the
years I’ve learned how that particular
position really should be a default position
for everyone. Your true Purpose in life will be illuminated
when you serve the Lord. Additionally, I’m thankful for
being raised in a ministry family where I learned how to
serve in the house at an early age. It actually prepared
me for my future and for “living on Purpose” for the
Lord. Discovering your Purpose does not necessarily
happen instantaneously but in reality can be a process
that evolves over time.
I discovered my real Purpose when I was in my 20’s
working as a Human Resource Director in State
Government. I had just graduated from college and
my father was pastoring a growing church. I was
constantly being pulled towards involvement in the
church, but the pulling was on my own heart and
not by my Dad. It’s funny how that works, but it truly
seemed like my mind would wander and I would think
continually about how I could help and be of service
to the Church. I had a great position in government
and a career that was becoming very promising. I was
indirectly being groomed by the department Director
TEAM PERSPECTIVES
STEVE
SHACKETT
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
22 | Champion Life Magazine
and knew that if I just stayed
long enough, my positioning
would be set. Yet every year I
stayed in government, the more
I desired to leave for ministry.
You should understand that I had
no ambition or desire to become
a platform person or speaker like my
father, but rather to help support the
vision that he had—that was what my
Purpose eventually became. Purpose
in its direct sense is defined as “the reason
for which something is done or created and
or for which something exists”. I believe that
my true Purpose became that of an enabler or
one who facilitates another’s vision. In effect,
one who makes someone else’s vision come
to pass. It’s interesting that Phil Cooke, who
is a media producer in Hollywood and has
produced films in more than 40 countries,
recently said, “Creative people in Hollywood
are a dime a dozen, but finding someone who
can actually implement that creativity [is] worth
their weight in gold”.
Finding your Purpose can also be hard work. It
takes time, consistency, and patience. It also takes
courage to live intentionally for the Purpose God
has given you. Realizing my Purpose and truly
embracing it has allowed me to “live on Purpose”
and stay the course when things get crazy and
clouded. As amazing as it may seem, things
at Champions Centre can indeed get wild
and crazy. As the Executive Director over
Operations and Human Resources, I interact
with not only the entire staff, but I oversee
the basic day-to-day operational functions of
the church at both campuses. We’re a very
busy place and it’s not unusual for most of
the staff to work long hours even late into
the night. Recognizing those challenges has
strengthened my resolve to know where
my strength comes from when situations become
difficult and the answers are not coming as fast as
I’d like them to. God’s word is truly a lamp unto my
feet and a light for my pathway (Psalm 119:105).
There is certainly fulfillment and satisfaction
when you are in your natural flow and Purpose
of what God has called you to do on this earth.
Purpose is much bigger and transcends what you
do as a job. Identifying and finding your passion
also enhances your Purpose. In taking a recent
Strength’s Test I discovered that I was an Arranger
as well as a Relator. My very best flow is in building
relationships and motivating others to action. I love
directing the orchestra! Having served in ministry
now for over 35 years, it’s continually exciting
to see others find their flow and Purpose
for living. Developing good habits and the
ability to create a daily routine and sense
of flow are vital to finding your ultimate
Purpose in life.
Let me conclude by saying that I love what
I do and if I were honest with you today,
I’d like to feel that no one else could ever
do what I do. I say that knowing that while
no one is irreplaceable, God has made me
for a special Purpose. If you’re truly where
you’re in your flow and place of Purpose,
then God has given you a peace and a
place where you function best. It’s been
said that all men have a common destiny,
yet each man must also work out his
personal salvation for himself . . . In the
last analysis, each man is responsible for
“finding himself”. Go find your Purpose
and flow in it.
There is a clear distinction
between living in your
Purpose and living your
life. I know the difference,
because I have lived most
of my life just living it, and
not living it on Purpose.
“For you died to this life and your real life is hidden with
Christ in God.” — Colossians 3:3
I know that somewhere in the core of every person
lies his or her unique, personalized Purpose. It may
lay dormant for years, like it did in me. But it is clear
that God not only wants us to live but to live the life
ROBIN
MCCOY
DIRECTOR OF GUEST
& MEMBER RELATIO
NS
Fall 2011 | 23
that he planned for us to live, on Purpose. God does not
mean for us to live mediocre, going-through-the-motions,
just-getting-by kind of lives. So, what would your life be
like if you simply threw up your hands and said, “Okay
God, I give up, I surrender—have your way in my life. I
don’t want to miss a thing! I want everything in this life
that you want for me and I will do whatever you say, go
wherever you tell me to go, do whatever you want me to
do. I am yours, heart and soul.”?
This was and is my cry to God. Surrender! Give it up! Give
it all up and be willing (now this is something God can
work with)!
For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, rank after rank after rank of angels – everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him. — Colossians 1:16 (MSG)
Not too long ago I began to aggressively go after whatever
plan and Purpose God has for me. The first thing I can tell
you is if you do this, get ready to get really uncomfortable, because God is going to shake you up. I had never
thought that I would be in full time ministry, and yet,
I am. I had never thought I would pray all the
time and in front of other people, and yet I do.
I had never thought I would go visit people
in the hospital, but I find that at times I am
compelled to go. Your Purpose just may lie in
your “I will never . . . ”.
I have been on staff at Champions Centre
for over four years now. This may not seem
like a big deal to you, but it is a big deal
to me. Prior to coming on staff, the longest
I had ever been at any one company was
four years. And with most companies
only one year. Each new position offered
promotion and more money. I was moving
up in my field, creating great contacts and
building a great customer base that would
be attractive to any employer. I was all
about success, money, position and being
valued by the standards that society has
deemed valuable. Your Purpose is not
in your job, your position or your title . . .
Although it may be a part of the plan, it is
not your Purpose.
One thing that I loved was networking. I loved
connecting people. Who knew this was the seed of
God’s Purpose in my life. Yet, I was stressed, overworked,
had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, I didn’t sleep
well because I was always worried about business and
I knew I did not want to be at the end of my life (which
was probably going to be shortened by stress) with
regrets, having never made a difference . . . I did not just
want to exist.
“For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live]. — Ephesians 2:10 (AMP)
At the end of your life, what will others say about you?
What do you want God to say to you? At some point, you
will ask these questions. Begin with the end in mind, what
do you want to do with this one miraculous life God has
given you?
I love that God does not just put us in one place and leave
us there. I get bored very easily—and God knows that.
He has so much more for us than we can ever imagine.
I came on staff at Champions Centre to help connect
people to the life of the church . . . But there is more. God
is continually stretching me, working in me, building me
and calling me to more.
When you allow God to do whatever He wants, He ignites
your potential and Purpose and He blesses you with more
than you could have ever dreamed of.
Not only do I get to do what I love (and that really would
have been enough), I find that I am more “others”-minded.
I find that God puts people in my path and on my heart
daily and I get to encourage them and speak words of life
into them. I get to see the joy in others as they begin to live
out their God-Purposed life. I get to live a full on, all out,
exciting, vibrant life and I get to see how very much God
loves all of us—all the time! How absolutely cool is that?
So, if you are asking yourself, “Have I missed it? Is it too late
to do what I was put here on earth to do? Do I have the
energy, the stamina, the fight and focus left in me to great
things for God?” I am here to tell you that it is never to late!
God has placed you and me on the earth at this specific
time for a Purpose and His Purpose will prevail.
“I can't tell you how much I long for you to enter this wide-open, spacious life. We didn't fence you in. The smallness you feel comes from within you. Your lives aren't small, but you're living them in a small way. I'm speaking as plainly as I can and with great affection. Open up your lives. Live openly and expansively! — 2 Corinthians 6:11-13
24 | Champion Life Magazine
If you grew up going to
youth camp with me, you’ll
recognize the picture above.
It’s the main meeting hall at Camp
Waskowitz, in the mountains of Washington.
It is the very building where I felt God call me into ministry,
during our services where we converted it from the old
rundown building that it is into our “auditorium” for the
week. That building was the site of some of my great
moments with God.
That building was the birthplace of my desire for ministry.
Funny thing: this year marks ten years I’ve been in full time
ministry. I can’t believe it, but I already have my first decade
under my belt. It’s been amazing to see how my own
personal Purpose has come alive as I’ve surrendered my life
to something bigger—the cause of Jesus and His Church.
Recently in Church, we were worshipping and I felt God
tell me that if I wanted my next ten years to be greater
than my first ten, I needed to return to the basics I had
when I first started. I’ve often heard it said “what got
you here won’t take you there” (and there is some truth
in this statement). However, I’ve seen people move on
from certain, non-negotiable things too quickly, as their
Purpose begins to unfold. Often they seem small or
insignificant, but in reality they are some of the strongest
and most important stones in our foundation.
This is the myth of progress: The small things that got
us started are unimportant. My opinion is that it is the
small, first things in life that are the foundation for how
God wants to build our lives. Just as a house is built on a
foundation laid first, our lives are built on the foundation
of what got us started.
Listen to what is written to the church in Ephesus in
Revelation 2, “Yet I hold this against you: You have
forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you
have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”
So I started asking myself, “What got me started?” Why
did I get involved in ministry in the first place? Why did I
sense that this was part of my Purpose? Here’s what
I came up with:
• A desire to keep my relationship with God red hot.
• Giving honor and respect to every opportunity
that came my way, not treating it lightly.
• Being faithful to serve in my church week in and
week out, even the weeks I didn’t feel it.
• A humility to receive from mentors, and realize I
couldn’t get there on my own.
I’ve recognized that the lure of greater things in life is a
constant undertow that can pull me under—it’s strong,
convincing, and compelling. To think that we somehow
graduate from the simple, but important things that
got us started is a lie we tell ourselves in order to feel
important and significant. It sounds great at first. And
yes, there are things in life that you will move beyond
as your responsibilities increase. But to get far from the
basics is the facade of cold love.
My journey in ministry began with serving in church
every weekend. Sure, I was 12, and my “ministry” involved
doing name tags at the kids check-in counter, probably
somewhat against my will, since my parents were the
team leaders. But serving in church was something I was
raised on . . . it was a non-negotiable. It was in church
that I discovered my gifts, put them to use, got my start
in ministry, met my wife, met my life’s mentors . . . the list
goes on—all because the DNA of my first love.
The farther you get from first things, the farther you will
get from your first love.
Going back to that youth camp where I felt called into
ministry, I told my Pastor at the end of the service, “I
want to work at Champions Centre, even if it means
vacuuming the floors.” I pray this heart never leaves me.
If you haven’t done this in a while, I challenge you to stop
and ask yourself this question: What got me started in
my Purpose? What are the small, seemingly insignificant
things that opened up the door to something bigger
in my life? Once you can answer that question, make a
commitment to never let those foundation stones be far
from your mind and life.
BRANDON
STEWART
CHAMPION LIFE
GROUPS DIRECTOR
Fall 2011 | 25
Larry and I were raised in Christian homes and have known Jesus as our savior most of our lives. Subsequently, we were involved in church
related activities all of our early years
(singing in choirs, playing instruments, etc.). Larry’s
dad was a pastor of one church for 55 years in
Louisiana. It is this type of legacy that we come from.
Our bent toward volunteering and worship is almost
automatic. As a result our entire family has been
involved in the church as well.
We are blessed with five children, fourteen
grandchildren and one great-grandson. All of the
children and grandchildren of age, are saved and
are involved in ministry of the churches they attend.
Peoples Church/Champions Centre has been a place
to continue this legacy of service to God’s house.
Early in 1974, my husband and I started attending
Peoples Church with Pastor Shackett and Larry
served as a board member and usher. The kids were
involved in youth groups and choir. Ironically or not,
all of them met their spouses in church.
Champions Centre has been a driving force in
our lives with incredible teaching by Pastors Kevin
and Sheila Gerald. We were captivated by Pastor
Kevin’s clear vision and wisdom shown during the
transition of the merger. It was a “no brainer” that
he was indeed the pastor we were looking for once
he communicated his blueprint for the merger. The
weekly messages and books are truly an inspiration
to us as a family.
Here are just a couple examples from our family how
the legacy continues to live on:
ReaL LIFe CHaMPIONs
Larry and Billie Norris and Family
Champions Centre has been a driving force in our lives with incredible teaching by Pastors Kevin and Sheila
26 | Champion Life Magazine
We are so blessed to be members of the Champions Centre family to share and feel the love shared back to us
Mark and Cynthia
Cronkite (our daughter
and son-in-law) got
involved early on
in the prayer team
leading the new
Christians into their new walk with the Lord. Cynthia
served in choir, and Jesus of Nazareth and Scrooge
The Musical Productions in make up, construction,
set development and art work. They currently are
involved with Celebrate Recovery and pastoral care
team providing meals for families who are in crisis.
Jeff and Demetria Zuniga (daughter and son-in-
law) were involved in the choir and orchestra. Later
Demetria moved to the Children’s department
where she still serves. Jeff serves in God’s Gang
(elementary age kids) with the sound and media.
Their children also assist them in this vital ministry.
We are so blessed to be members of the
Champions Centre family to share and feel the love
shared back to us. We do some traveling around
the states and end up seeing what other churches
are doing. Well, nothing comes close to the
powerful worship, spirit of excellence! It feels so
good to come home to Champions Centre where
we have such outstanding volunteers, staff and
leadership in Pastor Kevin and Sheila.
Fall 2011 | 27
It’s one thing to find your purpose, and it’s another thing to fulfill your
purpose.
Think about it. We can’t get an education or diploma by starting to go
to school: we get it by continuing to go to school. And it’s one thing
to meet and marry the love of your life, but even greater to continue
working to keep that marriage successful in the years that follow. It’s
not what we start that matters, it’s what we continue . . .
As a believer, if you want to experience God’s best, and enjoy a God-
empowered life, there are some things that you should start and
never stop. These are things that you continue in day after day, week
after week, month after month, and year after year in order to see
continued success.
The Bible teaches us that we are called to be people who:
continue in our love for god.Let’s be people who are committed to never lose our passion to
honor and serve God.
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love . . .
Repent and do the things you did at first.” — Revelation 2:4-5 NIV
continue in a life of confidence and faith.Life isn’t always easy. It’s not always understandable. But let’s
determine to be people of faith. Let’s be people who don’t
allow circumstances to keep us from continuing a life of faith
and confidence.
“Say this: “God, you're my refuge. I trust in you and I'm safe!"
— Psalm 91:2 MSG
continue connecting and being involved in church life.“Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and
I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” — Psalms 23:6 NIV
When David wrote this psalm, he was referencing his power to
choose what he will be continuing the rest of his life! Choosing to
stay committed to God’s house is key to a life of purpose.
continue when others don’t.“Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but
Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted
them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work.”
—Acts 15:37-38 NIV
Chances are that not everyone in your world will be a good influence as
you pursue a life for God. Stay focused on your purpose and the God
who walks alongside you even when others may fall away. Remember,
It's not what we start that matters, it's what we continue—Let's be
people who continue!
k.WISETo Be Continued . . .
champion Find:To Be Continued...
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28 | Champion Life Magazine