What I Wish I Knew in My 20s

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EPISODE NOTES 

What if the path to true greatness is not just following your own ambitions but uncovering the treasure within you by embracing humility? In this episode, Pastor Derwin Gray invites us to reflect on the transformative journey of the church, emphasizing that it isn’t about buildings or denominations but about the love that ignites the hearts of those redeemed by Christ. Through personal anecdotes from his life—like overcoming entitlement in high school football and the importance of respecting teammates in the NFL—Pastor Derwin passionately illustrates how a mindset of humility, servanthood, and accountability can propel us forward. He urges the audience to break free from the chains of arrogance and to stand out by contributing positively to their communities. As you navigate your spiritual journey, this message will help you recognize the grace that underlies every challenge, enabling growth and connection with God.

Here are a few of the practical things you’ll learn in this episode:

  1. Reject Entitlement: Recognize entitlement as a destructive force that can hinder personal growth and the work of God in your life. Approach every opportunity and responsibility as a gift of God’s grace, and remember that you are part of a larger community.
  2. Embrace Humility: Follow the example of Jesus, who embodied humility and servanthood. Be willing to serve in any capacity, understanding that true leadership is rooted in humility and a willingness to serve others.
  3. Stand Out, Don’t Fit In: Instead of conforming to negative cultural norms, strive to stand out by leading with integrity and excellence. Respect others, but prioritize being the best version of yourself, even if it means going against the grain.
  4. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Be open to learning and receiving constructive criticism. Avoid arrogance and defensiveness, and instead, view feedback as an opportunity for growth. Continuously seek to improve and develop your skills and character in alignment with Christ’s example.

QUOTES

  • “If you follow Jesus, you were blood bought, you were purchased. He redeemed you,
    he ransomed you, he loved you.” – Dr. Derwin L Gray
  • “Entitlement is a disease. It makes you selfish and it shrinks your capacity.” – Dr. Derwin
    L Gray
  • “Success is not owned. It’s only rented for a day.” – Dr. Derwin L Gray
  • “Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus… who existing in the form of God, did
    not consider equality with God as something to be exploited.” – Dr. Derwin L Gray
  • “Life is too short to not desire to grow.” – Dr. Derwin L Gray

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast
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• The Transforming the Church Podcast is part of the ChurchLeaders Podcast Network.

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray
• Instagram: @derwinlgray

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