GOD TV CEO, Ward Simpson shares his close connection with Chris and Kerry Cole and his insights into their life story, Gotta Die to Live in the Foreword to the book.
Kerry and Chris Cole have a special anointing that is rooted in their decision to lay their lives down for the sake of the Kingdom of God. They put aside their personal ambitions and plans and instead put Jesus Christ first and foremost in every facet of their lives. Far too often Christians can be found asking God to bless their plans rather than asking God to show them His plan for their lives, which is already blessed and perfect.
The title of this book, Gotta Die to Live, might sound harsh and unflattering and may at ‘first glance’ appear offensive and uninviting but in reality, it is the key to your future success. When we put Jesus first in our lives and allow Christ to rule and reign in us, we are in reality ‘dying to ourselves’ and allowing Jesus to have His perfect way in us, through us and for us. Said another way, ‘to live is to die.’ John 12:24 AMP- “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone [just one grain, never more]. But if it dies, it produces much grain and yields a harvest.”
This book touches the heart of God by encouraging us to pursue Jesus like never before, with the ultimate goal of yielding to Him and looking like Him in word and in deed. Kerry and Chris have spent the past 40 years navigating through life’s trials, temptations and disillusionment. Two broken lives who found purpose, value and identity through an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.
This is a story of liberation, restoration and reward. A real-life adventure filled with the worst and best that life often brings. It is an honest and transparent insight into the complex emotional issues that each of us face on a daily basis. Discover the treasure hidden in your darkest days, the victory to be had in your battles and God’s faithfulness in your time of despair.
Gotta Die to Live is authentic and exciting and is a must read for every believer regardless of the level of Christian maturity. Gotta Die to Live will inspire and encourage you in every facet of your life. It will help you to find the ‘real you.’ From not enough to more than enough, from captivity to freedom, from bondage to liberation, Kerry’s and Chris’s stories will fuel your faith and prime your passion.
Kerry and Chris have learned to ‘trust in Jesus’ in every situation that comes their way and for this reason, Jesus has become their foundation, anchor and compass; their rock and fortress whom they have learned to quickly turn to.
There is no room for two on the throne. Self must die in order to live. It’s time to live the victorious life, it’s time to lay everything aside and allow Jesus Christ to rule and to reign in our lives.
Chris as a trustee brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to GOD TV and we often call on him and Kerry to minister to our staff and partners around the world. Lydia and I count it a privilege to call them friends and pray that this book will richly bless you and help you discover and live the blessed and abundant life that God has in store for you. It’s time to die so that you may live!
Ward Simpson, President and CEO of GOD TV.