It has been said that that which is built in the flesh is maintained by the flesh, but that which is built in the Spirit is maintained by the Spirit. So, what does that phrase mean? In this program, Chip Ingram will explore that answer as he interviews his close friend and marketplace leader, Gregg Dedrick. Join us as we learn through Gregg’s life story how to build your life on God instead of chasing after earthly fulfillment.
Main Points
Building in the Flesh vs. Building in the Spirit:
- Building in the Flesh: Attempting to live the Christian life through personal effort, willpower, and self-sufficiency, which often leads to burnout and discouragement.
- Building in the Spirit: Surrendering to God and partnering with Him, which leads to a more fulfilling and sustainable Christian life.
Gregg Dedrick’s Journey:
- Corporate Success: Gregg achieved significant success in the corporate world, including roles as chief people officer and president of KFC.
- Burnout: Despite his achievements, he experienced burnout in both business and ministry, feeling that there had to be more to life than what he was experiencing.
The Turning Point:
- Surrender: Gregg's journey began with a surrender to God, recognizing his own self-sufficiency and the need for divine help.
- Intimacy with God: He realized that his faith had become more of a code of ethics rather than a genuine relationship with God. This led him to explore a deeper intimacy with God.
Key Insights:
- Adoration Prayer: Gregg discovered adoration prayer as a way to build intimacy with God, focusing on loving God for who He is rather than for what He does.
- Misplaced Identity: He acknowledged that his identity and relationship with God had been performance-based, leading to a shaky and conditional relationship with God.
Transformation and Impact:
- Shift from Devotion to Discipline: He transitioned from a focus on performing religious duties to a disciplined approach to devotion that opened his heart to God.
- Impact on Relationships: This new understanding improved his relationships, including his marriage, by fostering a deeper and more genuine connection with others.
Practical Application:
- Partnership with God: Building in the Spirit involves partnering with God rather than relying solely on one's own efforts. This approach leads to a more authentic and fulfilling spiritual life.
Book Recommendation:
- "Building in the Spirit: Discovering the Life God Destined for You": Gregg’s experiences and insights are detailed in this book, which is recommended for those who feel burned out or are struggling with a performance-based faith.
Final Thoughts:
- Working from Value: Understanding that God’s love and validation are the foundation of our work and partnership with Him brings joy and removes the pressure of performance.
Broadcast Resource
Additional Resource Mentions
About Chip Ingram
Chip Ingram’s passion is helping Christians really live like Christians. As a pastor, author, and teacher for more than three decades, Chip has helped believers around the world move from spiritual spectators to healthy, authentic disciples of Jesus by living out God’s truth in their lives and relationships in transformational ways.
About Gregg Dedrick
Gregg Dedrick is the co-founder of Iron Bell Ministries, a worship and discipleship ministry based in Louisville, Kentucky. He’s also co-founder of an online digital leadership platform, as well as a board member for multiple for- and non-profit companies. Gregg’s work experience as the former president of KFC has positioned him as a highly effective coach and advisor, especially to Christian leaders and organizations. He is married to Shelley, and they have three grown children and three grandchildren.
About Living on the Edge
Living on the Edge exists to help Christians live like Christians. Established in 1995 as the radio ministry of pastor and author Chip Ingram, God has since grown it into a global discipleship ministry. Living on the Edge provides Biblical teaching and discipleship resources that challenge and equip spiritually hungry Christians all over the world to become mature disciples of Jesus.
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