Champion Life Magazine Fall 2011

FALL 2011

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For we are Gods workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do.

F E AT U R E S

— 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

IN THE KNOW 6 20

25 Year Tribute Champions Foundation Update

IN EVERY ISSUE 3

Let’s Talk

4

You to Us

14

Champion Finds

26

Real Life Champions

16 ABOUT US Champion Life Magazine purposes to equip people to live successful Christian lives.

2 8 k. Wise Fall 2011

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E xecutive Pub lishers Kevin Gerald & Sheila Gerald

E DITO R-IN-CH IE F Jodi Gerald-Cameron

148th Ave.

coffee shop

S enior P roje c t Manager Art Dire c tor

Jen Mueller

Dallas Drotz, Drotz Design

Contr ib ut in g E d itors

Abbie Buck, Corianne Burton,

Andrea Dashiell, Kim Ludwick, Stephanie Jannsen, Raelynn Poulin, Leslie Powell, Elizabeth Woody, Judi Shackett, Mark Stewart Contr ib ut in g P hoto graph y Contr ib ut in g Graph ic Design Contr ib ut in g Wr iters

J. Hobson Photography

Venessa Koehn & Mickey Elliott

Kevin Gerald, Jodi Gerald-Cameron,

Mica Griggs, Sue Kahawaii, Robin McCoy, Steve Shackett, Brandon Stewart Distr ib ut ion

P RODU C E R

Kim Ludwick

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 S ub scrib e www.championscentre.com Phone: (toll-free) 888-935-6914

To S ponsor

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our magazine through distribution or sponsorship please contact us at: 253-475-6454 x361

QU E ST I ONS / COMME NTS / I DE AS

Let us know. We welcome your

feedback. Please write us at: championlife@championscentre.com

NOW OPEN

Mail Champion Life Editorial 1819 E. 72nd St.

Short walk from Bellevue College (Entrance of college, Landerholm & 148th Ave)

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Tacoma, WA 98404

Produced by Champions Centre Publishing Š 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

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.

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YOU to US Comments from our readers:

We want to hear from you!

Please write us at: championlife@championscentre.com Mail: Champion Life Editorial, 1819 E. 72nd St., Tacoma, WA 98404

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.

First of all, congratulations on 25 years!

I have finally found a church where

Secondly, I loved reading the article

I feel so comfortable. I can't wait to

on ‘Momentum’ in the Summer Issue.

go back. I want to thank all of you for

There is such a feeling of momentum

being so kind and warm. It was because

at Champions Centre and I love being

of this I made the decision to make

along for the ride. There’s no where else

Champions Centre my home.

I’d rather be! —Josh B.

—Thomas S.

Thank you for your Real Life Champion

Thank you for the ability to share

stories. I always flip right to this section

the magazine and messages with

of the magazine to see whose story

others who may never look it up for

was featured. This last issue, the story

themselves. With just a 'click' you could

from Steven and Autumn was so great.

send a video off to a friend. I sent

It's just good to know that there are

"Be Brave" to two people who I know

real people, living real lives that are

needed to hear it as much as I did. And

committed to the cause of Christ. It's

talk about being timely, a message that

so encouraging! —Diane A.

was given three years ago ministered to

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

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me right here, right now! —Gail K.

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

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.

THE MEMBERS FROM PEOPLES CHURCH AND MERIDIAN CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES WHO HAVE BEEN ON THE JOURNEY ALONG SIDE US FOR 25 YEARS.

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0:06 / :45 » WATCH THE VID EO ONL INE

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.

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.

PASTORS KEVIN & SHEILA ARE HONORED BY CLOSE FRIENDS Pastors Kevin & Sheila PASTORS TERRY & JUDITH CRIST DURING TC 2011 CHARLOTTE G. - Congratulations on 25 years and thank you for the incredible impact on mine Thank you for making a way so generations of my & Debbie's life. We love you! JAMES G. descendants will follow jumping & leaping & praising God, grateful! MICA G. Congrats to Kevin & Sheila on 25 years of pastoring Champion Centre. Your wisdom & compassion is What an honor to walk by you both. Thanks for unmatched. Love ya! MARCUS M. sticking it out so I can carry the legacy to my family, here's to the next 25 years, heart and soul. TINIA N. To my Pastors Kevin & Sheila—thank you for investing into me as a kid and now my kids. Claiming my next 62 Thank you Kevin & Sheila for everything! I am so generations serving God's House! JESSICA J. grateful that I get to be a part of what God is doing through you! LUIS R.

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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,

for their lives. They live empty, unfulfilling, unrewarding

we’ve got boats. And what about bulldozers? Cranes?

lives. Experts say Americans are experiencing an

And battle vehicles, like tanks and Humvees? Each and

unprecedented amount of what they call “psychological

every one of these things are created for a very specific

misery”. Some cold, hard facts for you:

purpose, and each purpose may be different from the

•

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

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 8

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Champion Life Magazine

of death.

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 Purpose

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.

Recently, 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

“I’m in my flow when I am ple.” networking and meeting peo “I am in my flow when I am bringing order to chaos.”

different things.

“I am in my flow when I am collaborating and encouraging others.”

Scripture says: for we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ

“I am in my flow when I am ple writing songs to connect peo to God.” ting “I am in my flow when I’m wri something that is hard to verbalize.” “ I’m in my flow when I am helping men manage lust.”

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

“I’m in my flow when I am improvising, creating, rehearsing, performing, strategizing, assimilating.”

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

» WATCH THE VID EO ONL INE 0:06 / :45

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.” >> Fall 2011

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ALL are designed by their creators to

2.

Identify Your Primary Purpose

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

The search for purpose has the

with all your heart as unto the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23)

ability to turn into hyper selffocus. 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.

3. Excel in your personal Purpose --Your Flow

The search to uncover your

Once you know that you

purpose becomes more about you. We become

have a purpose, and that

introspective, analyzing ourselves from every

your

angle. Remember, in identifying your purpose:

purpose is to

primary

glorify God, then

Your primary, overall purpose is still to glorify

it’s

God . . . whatever you do, in work or in deed.

time

to

be

the best at being you. God spent an

Think about the “whatever scriptures”: •

•

•

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. — 1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV

don’t

make spend

your energy trying to be someone else! Let’s go back to the instrument analogy, if you’re

an

instrument—what’s

Everything comes from God alone, everything living by His power, and everything is for His Glory.

— Romans 11:36 LB

people laugh? Bring people joy? Do you love to

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 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?

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

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you—so

amount to

your sound? In other words, what are your

Think about it like this, all instruments

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energy

For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible, everything got started in Him and finds its purpose in Him. — Colossians 1:16 MSG

•

are

enormous of

Champion Life Magazine

A wealth creator; a gifted financial supporter?

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.

Now, don’t confuse your flow with your job flow

transcends

flow when I’m locating and

communicating

When are YOU in your flow? responsibilities—your

“I’m in my

a

wisdom."

job

description. Your purpose is not to be a banker,

flow brings you fulfillment and satisfaction. Your

or a flight attendant—your purpose goes beyond

flow is a strength that others will see and validate.

those titles. There are a lot of things about being

Your flow may be obvious to you, or it may be

a pastor I don’t like; things that are not in my

something that takes some careful consideration

flow. But my flow is something that carries over,

and reflection. If you’re still searching for yours,

and is something I do not only do as a pastor,

spend some time and think about it tomorrow as

but also in everyday life as a dad, a friend and

you go about you day:

husband. I’m in my flow when

I’m locating and

“I’m in my flow when

.” >>

communicating 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

Champion Find:

to do what He put you on earth to do. When

Summer of the Ant

you’re outside of your “grace zone” it will feel

Find it at kevingerald.tv

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

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We have to know that we have a Goddesigned 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

diminish expectation for what God can and will do

anticipation for your life inside your flow. Raise your

in and through your life. Lift up your eyes; remember

expectations. So often people get bogged down and

what God has done for others, and what He will do

discouraged because they let disappointments and

for you!

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

Kevin Gerald is the lead pastor of Champions Centre in Tacoma and Bellevue, WA. For great resources from Kevin, visit kevingerald.tv.

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CHAMPION FINDS

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.

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EFFORTS AND COURAGE ARE NOT ENOUGH WITHOUT PURPOSE AND DIRECTION. -JOHN F. KENNEDY

253.475.6454 ext. 361 888.935.6914 kevingerald.tv

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.

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.

TC 2011: Team Church Conference 2011 (16 CDs; DVD) Team Church Conference is where lives are drastically transformed and teams learn practical 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.

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.

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.

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.

RESOURCE YOURSELF AT KEVINGERALD.TV

Go online to find a wealth of resources, including free wisdom tips from Kevin Gerald and mp3s of messages.

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WHAT DO Y

BY JODI GERALD-CAMERON

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?

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“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

YOU WANT? So, here's the deal: This king—King Artaxerxes—

Great things can be born out of disaster, great

was the most powerful man in the known world.

opportunities can come out of hardships. If you've

And, Nehemiah was a cupbearer—a servant—who

been in a struggle just remember that the best of

was given an extraordinary opportunity. And he

things can come through the worst of times. In fact,

immediately seized that moment and communicated

God is at his best when life is at its worst. Even if you

exactly what he wanted. What does this story have

don't know the full answer to “what you want,” try to

to do with you and me and what we want? Here's a

identify something and start moving! Now is not the

couple things I've learned:

time to shrink back. Ask yourself, what would you do if money was no object? What would you do if you

1 “

People who know what they want push past fear.

. . . I WAS VERY MUCH AFRAID, BUT I SAID TO THE KING . . .”

— NEHEMIAH 2:2-3

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

The chances are high that Nehemiah had similar fears

we're afraid of, if we can get even a glimpse of what

to what we face. Things like: what if this doesn't work

we want for our future it will give us the motivation

out? What if I fail? What if they don't understand?

we need to push past the fear.

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

2

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.

“

People 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 >>

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We'll never be sure if this prayer was a brief prayer for

touch with our heart's desires. When we're reacting

courage and wisdom, or if he went away and prayed for

to life instead of having a proactive approach to

a length of time, but he seemed ready with an answer

life, we end up frustrated and disappointed instead

fairly quickly. Here's a snapshot of what Nehemiah was

of happy and fulfilled. And, for a lot of people their

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

RESPONSIBILITIES HAVE NUMBED THEM TO THE POSSIBILITIES AROUND THEM AND THE PASSIONS WITHIN THEM. If we can take some cues from

service in order to rebuild the wall around a city that, in years past, posed a military threat to this area.

this guy Nehemiah— he knew exactly what he wanted.

Step 2: Convince the king to lend financial

and thinking about it for several days or weeks or

support to the building project.

A passion had been conceived. He had been praying months while going about his everyday life until the

Step 3: Procure letters from the king to the governors in the surrounding areas asking them to provide me safe conduct along the way.

PSALM

- And he will give you the desires of your heart.

- I'm going God's way, not my own 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.

King posed the question. But when the opportunity

Step 6: Organize and equip the inhabitants of

came, he was ready for it. ‘Prepare yourself and your

Jerusalem.

day will come’ is how Abraham Lincoln said it. Take the

Step 7: Begin Construction.

time now to ask yourself the hard questions and be prepared so that when your day of opportunity comes you'll be ready!

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.

Champion Life Magazine

God is not the author of confusion. One of the biggest hindrances of seeing God move in our lives (in the form

want. We've either

of his favor) is the lack of clarity we have for our own

never defined or simply

lives. Nehemiah prayed for favor before he even had

forgotten our goals,

an audience with the king (Nehemiah 1:11). Nehemiah

so we're out of

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AND THE KING GRANTED THESE REQUESTS, BECAUSE THE GRACIOUS HAND OF GOD WAS ON ME.” — NEHEMIAH 2:8 (NLT)

We don't know what we

values, and passions

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People who know what they want receive backing and favor from God.

hoped that the king would feel something when he heard about the plight of the Jews in Jerusalem—it

was a long shot, because the king was not known to

line in front of the king that day. And when he did,

be a compassionate man. He knew that unless God

God confirmed the passion with signs following. The

intervened on the king's heart, there was no way in the

king didn't just write him a nice reference, the king

world that King Artaxerxes would feel sympathetic

basically wrote him a blank check.

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?”

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

It is God who works in you to will and to act according

team they were only offering me a partial scholarship.

to his good purpose (Philipians 2:13). When I was

By the time the tryout was over, I’d had one of the most

growing up, what I wanted to “do” changed several

amazing shooting days of my entire life (before or after!)

times. At one point I wanted to be a doctor, then a

that day, and following the tryout the coaches took me

nutritionist, a coach, a business owner, an athlete,

to dinner and offered me a full ride scholarship. I acted

and, then a pastor. Plans changed along the way, but

first in faith and signs followed.

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.

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

THE PRIMARY REASON MOST OF US DON'T SEE GOD MOVING IS SIMPLY BECAUSE WE AREN'T MOVING.

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

See, most of us want God to provide some kind

want I believe you’ll be able to push past fears, seize

of miraculous sign before we commit . . . have you

the opportunities set before you, and live in God’s

ever been there before? But it doesn't always work

constant and increasing favor.

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

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.

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Champions Foundation Update

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

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)

m Foundation. championsfoundation.co

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.

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 is with a serious illness. The Tree House e, their temporary home away from hom child their near stay to allowing them during the hospitalization. Not only are we providing home cooked meals, we offer a temporary respite from the stress they are undergoing.

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Habitat for Humanity (Hope)

Local neighborhoods are rest ored through our partnership with Paint Tacoma Beautiful, Habitat for Humanity, and other organiz ations 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 hom es and yards.

HOPE

Justice Project (Hope)

Our vision is to bring HO PE to our local communit y.

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.

FAITH

Our vision is to inspire FAITH around the world .

COMPASSION

Our vision is to deliver COMPASSION to pe ople in need everywhere.

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 backpacks, they also enjoy free haircuts, barbecue lunch, face painting, and getting to play on giant bouncy toys and playground as well.

EDUCATION

Our vision is to promote EDUCATION and bring awareness to issues of the day.

End Human Trafficking (Education) We partner with Shared Hop e international and RapeforPro fit who help us educate people about modern day slavery and human trafficking.

Champions Forever Ho me (Compassion)

The Champions Fo rever Home is locate d in Johannesburg, South Africa and was dedic to serving the need ated s of children who ha ve been orphaned or ab andoned due to the AIDS pandemic. Sub-Sa hara Africa has an es timated 12 million children wh o have no adult to care for them. Compassion is also offered throu gh our response to world-w ide disasters, as we give financially to agencie s on the ground tha t are in the best position to respond immedia tely to the needs of survivo rs.

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.

Together we make a difference (Faith) Faith can move mountains, and we help inspire faith by supporting Los Angeles Dream Center, Samaritans Purse, Wo rld Vision, and other faith based groups that are changing the world around them.

American English Acad emy (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 decis ions will change and impro that ve their nation’s culture.

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TEAM PERSPECTIVES Finding your Purpose in life is not only important, it’s necessary to enable T E T R EV KEIRECTO T you to fulfill your life’s S AC S D SEHRATION goals and dreams. Each OP 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

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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

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.

N BI T ROCOYF GUIEOSNS O AT C R L MECTOR RE

E R DI EMB &M

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

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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

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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 wideopen, 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

sense that this was part of my Purpose? Here’s what I came up with:

ON D ANART R B EWLIFE OR STMPIODNIRECT

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. A S CHOUP GR

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.”

•

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.

So I started asking myself, “What got me started?” Why did I get involved in ministry in the first place? Why did I

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REAL LIFE CHAMPIONS

Larry and Billie Norris and Family 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:

Champions Centr e has been a driving force in our lives with incredible teaching by Pastors Kevin and Sheila

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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-inlaw) 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 ar e so blessed to be members of the Champions Centr e family to shar e and fe el the love shar ed back to us 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.

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k.WISE To Be Continued . . .

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 Godempowered 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.

Champion Find: To Be Continued...

Find it at kevingerald.tv

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“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!