David Wenzel lives and works in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Today, he’s an Idea Architect for his content development firm RobinHood Ink. He’s also one of 6 contributors for the new book “Inciting Incidents” by Moody Publishing Company.

In 2009, David was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor, yet he continues to fight on with a faith in a God who heals. Prepare to be challenged and encouraged by his thoughts on faith, suffering, and the Millennial generation.

#LF: How has your diagnosis changed your own relationships with God and others.

I must say that I thought the hardest part would be the beginning after the diagnosis and then my relationships would unfold in a much more simple and beautiful way. They didn’t. The first few months I was surrounded by a lot of love. Things were simple. And later on the relationships got complicated.

At first, even the opportunity of another day really excited me. But right now, it’s different. I suppose that after the excitement / trauma / immediate actions take place, it all washes away and you realize that it all boils down to you and God, with a little help from whatever honest community you have allowed around you. Continue Reading…

They say that no one in today’s world watches videos that are over 2 minutes.  That’s not true (i.e. Kony 2012- 30 minutes long and over 92 million views), and I am going to highly encourage you to check out today’s featured story (that’s only 9 minutes). Take time to hear the story of Peace of Thread, I assure you it’s worth it.

My wife Erin, along with teams of committed students and adults, have spent the last several years investing in Clarkston, Georgia, which is home to refugee families from all over the world. At one point it literally contained the most diverse square mile in America.

Peace of Thread is a stunning fruit of these efforts. As a local, not-for-profit organization, Peace of Thread empowers women who have come to the United States seeking refuge from war, persecution & poverty to make a new life for themselves and their families.

You can connect with Peace of Thread on Facebook. Even better, check out their hand-made, high quality and one-of-a-kind accessories in the Peace of Thread Store.

Today I’m grateful to share my own inciting incident (as defined in the picture below), which deals with my family’s adoption story, on Thrive 80’s site HERE. Would love for you to check it out!

Thrive 80 from Moody Publishing Company is a blog that deals with the real issues and questions that followers of Jesus wrestle with, particularly young adults, and I’d encourage you all to check it out. Continue Reading…

Today we feature an incredible young photographer named Sterling Graves.  At the age of seventeen, Sterling turned his favorite hobby into a successful, growing business.  As a young man with tons of creativity, he loves to serve people through the art of photography.

#LF: How does following Jesus fuel your passion for photography?

I believe that Jesus is the prime example of passion. His love, life, and word is full of  passion for us to experience and an example to live out. Not only did He live fully, He died fully, and He fully lives again. As a Christian, I want to try my best to be a living sacrifice of who Jesus was. I believe that in Him, I am a new creation. I am no longer what the world wants to define me, but rather a co-heir with Christ. How fully can you live if your passion isn’t being transformed by God and the things He has for you?

#LF: How do you seek to impact people through your photography? Continue Reading…

U.S. gymnast Gabby Douglas has captured the hearts of millions of people  with her high flying routines, intense focus, and huge smiles. Yesterday she made history as the first African American gold medalist in gymnastics.  In these moments when the entire world is looking at her, she has consistently pointed to another.

Throughout her journey in these 2012 games, Gabby has displayed an honest and sincere faith in Jesus Christ.  When asked how she handles the pressure, she shared her “secret” was meditating on verses from the Bible.  Before competing for the all-around gold, she tweeted “Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” She describes herself on Twitter, saying “[I] Love my family, dogs & most importantly God.” Continue Reading…

Last week we introduced you to one of the writers for #LiveFully. Today, we’re introducing the other guy…

Random Facts:

1) I’ve been skydiving from 15,000 feet and bungee jumped from 130 feet. The bungee jump was much scarier.

2) My favorite tv show is LOST. I believe in its goodness all the way through to the end.

3) My wife is one of the funniest and hardest working people alive. She’s also a babe!

4) My favorite Superhero is obviously Batman, but if I had to be a superhero I would choose Spiderman’s powers.

5) Lord of the Rings is the best story/book/movie ever. This is not my opinion, it is science.

What part of culture do you seek to impact? Continue Reading…

My name is Brian Burchik, and here are a few things about me:

Favorite music: typically I dig the poppy stuff, which is somewhat embarrassing but it’s the truth

Favorite car: 2000 Honda Odyssey Mini-van (its got 14 cup holders, need I say more)

Favorite T.V. show: currently it’s a tie between The Voice and Parenthood

Random facts:

-My wife is one of the best leaders that I know.

-My daughter is a future Olympian. Not sure which sport, but that will be revealed as she gets older. I’m thinking gymnastics.

-I consistently buy pants that are too big around the waist. Apparently it’s still good to leave room to grow.

What area of culture do you seek to impact?

As a pastor, I believe that I can indirectly impact many areas of culture by helping young people to discover the passions and gifts God has given them, as well as challenging them to use those God-given passions to contribute in the world.

Why started #LiveFully?

I had a deep sense that God wanted me to start this blog, as well as to write a book with the same title. Of all places, I was sitting in a truck at a mattress store when I sensed God speaking to me about starting this #LiveFully project.

Aside from this moment, there are two main convictions that compel the ideas and efforts of #LiveFully blog…

1. Christianity casts the most compelling vision for life (by far), greater than any possible alternative one could embrace. Yet, I think the vision of the Christian subculture often falls way short of what the Bible actually teaches and promises.

2. Following Jesus is the fullest (aka best) way to live on the earth. Sadly, I believe many Christians struggle to believe this and do not expect to have lives that would cause others to ask them about the reason for their hope (1 Peter 3:15). I long to see followers of Jesus live FULL of passion and purpose.

Thanks to all who have joined with us in building this community. This project is just a small part of a much greater work of God that is inspiring Christians all over the world to let their “good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise” our heavenly Father. (Matthew 5:16)  #LiveFully

Today we’d like you to meet Jason Yost.  Jason is a gifted musician, worship leader, and founder of the New Rhythm Project, which is a non-profit organization that works to educate, communicate, and facilitate local communities to care for orphans and vulnerable children across the globe.  Check out how following Jesus compels his efforts in the world of adoption.

#LF-  If someone wanted to make a difference in your sphere of influence, what would you tell them?

Simply begin to do what the Bible explains for us to do. Don’t over-complicate things. If the Bible says that the “perfect religion” is one that cares for orphans and widows then we had better focus attention on caring for the orphans and widows. Finding the will of God for your life can be much simpler than you think.  Start with what the Bible says and you will be amazed at how much difference you will make. Continue Reading…