Make a Break for It: Unleashing the Power of Personal and Spiritual Growth

Purvis, who started his international television ministry as the pastor of Cascade Hills Church in Columbus, Ga., has grown a 32-person congregation to more than 8,000 regular members. In this inspiring text, Purvis begins by recounting being stabbed several times during an altercation when he was only 17, leaving him so badly injured that doctors didn't expect him to survive. Lying in agony on the verge of death, Purvis cried out to Jesus to save him and in that moment found a transcendence that set his life on a new course. Purvis shares numerous real-life accounts of individuals who have endured desperate times and found that God became their personal redeemer as well as the redeemer of their past mistakes. He shares inspirational stories organized by topic, including breaking free from a deadly past, learning to envision a powerful future, finding strength from within, carefully choosing the right mentors, and effectively handling critics. Purvis's story is amazing not simply because of what he has endured but how he has chosen to overcome obstacles with faith, courage, and a sense of purpose that drives him even through the darkest hours. (Mar.)