Pure Encouragement Podcast

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Ever need encouragement in your faith? Well, that's what my encouragement podcast is designed to bring you—#PureEncouragement for your walk with Jesus Christ. Every episode is designed to speak life to your soul and inspire you toward a deeper intimacy

Gary Steffes


    • Jun 19, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 21m AVG DURATION
    • 77 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Pure Encouragement Podcast is truly a gem in the world of Christian podcasts. Hosted by Gary, a friend, shepherd, discipler, and follower of Jesus, this podcast is a source of inspiration and encouragement for believers everywhere. Gary's hallmark as an encourager shines through in every episode, making him a modern-day Barnabas. His love for Jesus and the Word of God is contagious, and listeners will undoubtedly be blessed to get to know him through this podcast channel.

    One of the best aspects of The Pure Encouragement Podcast is Gary's genuine joy and enthusiasm for Jesus. His love for the Lord radiates through his voice, and it is impossible not to feel uplifted when listening to his episodes. His encouragement and enthusiasm for Jesus are so infectious that it gets you excited to worship and serve the Lord. Each episode is filled with wisdom, insight, and practical guidance for living out one's faith. The podcast covers a wide range of topics related to Christian living, such as prayer, discipleship, forgiveness, gratitude, and more. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone, regardless of where they are on their faith journey.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is its content and length. Each episode provides great content that is rich in truth. Gary has a gift for communicating deep spiritual truths in a way that is accessible and relatable. Whether you are a new believer or have been walking with Jesus for years, there is always something to learn from his teachings. Additionally, the episodes are just the right length - long enough to dive into important topics but short enough to keep your attention throughout.

    While it may be difficult to find any negative aspects of The Pure Encouragement Podcast, one possible drawback could be the lack of frequency in new episodes being released. As an avid listener who finds immense value in each episode, it would be wonderful to have more regular releases to continue growing in faith and receiving encouragement from Gary. However, the quality of each episode more than makes up for this minor inconvenience.

    In conclusion, The Pure Encouragement Podcast is a must-listen for any believer seeking encouragement and inspiration in their walk with Jesus. Gary's words are not only encouraging, but they also have the power to inspire and ignite a deep love for Christ within listeners. His gift as a communicator allows him to effectively convey important truths in an accessible and relatable way. By listening to this podcast, one can expect to grow in faith, be reminded of the importance of looking towards Jesus in all things, and find renewed joy and enthusiasm for worshiping and serving the Lord.



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    Latest episodes from Pure Encouragement Podcast

    Ep. 77 | "I am Purposefully Sent" | Scripture Verses About Who We Are in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 22:52


    In this series, Gary encourages us to OWN our identity in Christ by doing a Deep Dive on key promises of God. In this episode, he focuses on the promise "I am Purposefully Sent." Jesus said in John 20:21 "As the Father sent Me, so I am sending you." Therefore, as followers of Christ, we have a purpose far greater than ourselves. It's time we OWN who God declares us to be!"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ON IDENTITY IN CHRIST⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Free ​Identity in Christ PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Take the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Deep Dive Questions for Small Groups⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MORE RESOURCESStart your Week with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monday Motivation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 76 | "I am Entirely New" | Scripture Verses to Drive this Truth Home About Who We Are in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 22:53


    In this series, Gary encourages us to OWN our identity in Christ by doing a Deep Dive on key promises of God. In this episode, he focuses on the promise "I am Entirely New." As followers of Christ, we are not trying to become new; we ARE new in Christ! The old life is gone; behold the new has come! It's time we OWN who God declares us to be!"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ON IDENTITY IN CHRIST⁠⁠⁠⁠Free ​Identity in Christ PDF⁠⁠⁠⁠​Take the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Deep Dive Questions for Small Groups⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MORE RESOURCESStart your Week with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monday Motivation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 75 | "I am Completely Secure" | Scripture Verses to Drive this Truth Home About Who We Are in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 21:25


    In this series, Gary encourages us to OWN our identity in Christ by doing a Deep Dive on key promises of God. In this episode, he focuses on the promise "I am Completely Secure." As followers of Christ our security does not come through our performance and what people think of us, but Christ's performance and who He declares us to be. It's time we OWN who God declares us to be!"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ON IDENTITY IN CHRIST⁠⁠⁠Free ​Identity in Christ PDF⁠⁠⁠​Take the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Deep Dive Questions for Small Groups⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MORE RESOURCESStart your Week with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monday Motivation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 74 | I am Absolutely Significant | Own Your Identity in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 25:15


    In this series, Gary encourages us to OWN our identity in Christ by doing a Deep Dive on key promises of God. In this episode, he focuses on the promise "I am Absolutely Significant." Many of us as followers of Christ are searching for significance in what we do, what we have, and what others think of us. Such a pursuit leads to a roller coaster of anxiety and insecurity. The truth is God determines our significance. It's time we OWN who He declares us to be!"And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ON IDENTITY IN CHRIST⁠⁠Free ​Identity in Christ PDF⁠⁠​Take the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Deep Dive Questions for Small Groups⁠⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MORE RESOURCESStart your Week with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Monday Motivation⁠⁠⁠⁠​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 73 | Owning Your Identity in Christ | I am Totally Accepted

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 23:21


    In this series, Gary encourages us to OWN our identity in Christ by doing a Deep Dive on key promises of God. In this episode, he focuses on the promise "I am Totally Accepted." Many of us as followers of Christ struggle to own the truth that we are forgiven and righteous before the Lord. Because of Jesus, we are welcomed into His presence! Get encouraged today. "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ON IDENTITY IN CHRIST⁠Free ​Identity in Christ PDF⁠​Take the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Deep Dive Questions for Small Groups⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MORE RESOURCESStart your Week with ⁠⁠⁠Monday Motivation⁠⁠⁠​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 72 | Owning Your Identity in Christ | I am Deeply Loved

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 21:41


    In this series, Gary encourages us to OWN our identity in Christ by doing a Deep Dive on key promises of God. in this episode, he focuses on the promise "I am Deeply Loved." Many of us as followers of Christ know intellectually we are loved by God, but we struggle to own the truth in our hearts because we feel unworthy. Get encouraged today. "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ON IDENTITY IN CHRISTFree ​Identity in Christ PDF​Take the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Deep Dive Questions for Small GroupsDownload the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MORE RESOURCESStart your Week with ⁠⁠Monday Motivation⁠⁠​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 71 | "Here I Am, Lord! Send Me!" Finding Courage to Live for the Lord in the Face of Fear

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 23:37


    In this episode, Gary shares about how to find courage to live for the Lord in the face of fear. Whether God is calling you into the unknown, or to stand firm against peer pressure, this message with strengthen you to be strong and courageous! "God has not given us a Spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES​⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Take the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Start your Week with Monday Motivation​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 70 | Let Nothing Steal Your Joy!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 21:35


    In this episode, Gary shares a message on staying encouraged and letting nothing steal your joy! Get strengthened to overcome discouragement. Jesus said, "I tell you these things that My joy may be in you and your joy may be full" (John 15:11).PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES​⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Take the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 69 | Live at Tabor College Chapel | Living a Confident, Victorious Life in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 27:00


    In this episode, Gary shares a message on how to live a confident, victorious life in Christ. Get encouraged with practical tips and Gary's personal story. A confident, victorious life in Christ is possible! Start walking in freedom today! PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ​⁠⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠⁠ ​Take the⁠⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠ ​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠⁠ ​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 68 | The Most Important Thing You Can Do to Live Victoriously in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 19:53


    In this episode, Gary encourages us with the most important thing that any of us can do in 2025 to live victoriously. Do you want to live with confidence and strength in 2025? Do you want to bear fruit and glorify the Father? Get encouraged with spiritual truths that will strengthen you in your intimate walk with Jesus and help you WIN 2025.PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES​⁠⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠⁠​Take the⁠⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠⁠​Bi-weekly⁠⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠⁠​Need Soul Care?⁠⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 67 | From the Journal - Thankfulness, Courage, and Abiding IN Christ (feat. Josh Sherley and Brad Newburg)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2024 45:52


    In this episode, Gary, Josh, and Brad share discoveries from their journals about what God is teaching them in this season life. Get encouraged with spiritual truths that will strengthen you in your intimate walk with Jesus.PODCAST GUESTS​Josh Sherley - Regional Director at Influencers Global Ministries in Bakersfield, CA and former Fresno State football player and All State wrestler​Brad Newburg - VP at Trinity Safety Company and Influencers Bakersfield Board MemberPURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES​⁠⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠⁠​Don't miss our ⁠⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠⁠, starting in January!​Bi-weekly ⁠⁠Blog⁠⁠​Need Soul Care? ⁠⁠Join a Journey Group⁠⁠​More ⁠⁠Free Resources⁠⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 66 | A Christmas Encouragement - Flashback to Ep. 32 "How Christmas Radically Strengthens the Competitor for Christ" | When We Experience Grace It Changes Everything

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 16:18


    In this episode, Gary takes us back to Episode 32 "How Christmas Radically Strengthens the Competitor for Christ" to encourage every Competitor as to why Christmas matters to their career and confidence. God is faithful to His promises. God is with us. God is irrationally generous. When we experience God's grace, it changes everything! PODCAST RESOURCES ​⁠Identity in Christ PDF PURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES ​⁠Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet⁠ ​Don't miss our ⁠30 Day Identity Challenge⁠, starting in January! ​Bi-weekly ⁠Blog⁠ ​Need Soul Care? ⁠Join a Journey Group⁠ ​More ⁠Free Resources⁠ at our Website

    Ep. 65 | LIVE Encouragement on Overcoming the Orphan Spirit with Influencers Bakersfield | How to Break Free from the Past and Truly Own Your Identity in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2024 21:13


    In this episode, Gary encourages men and women from Influencers Global Ministries in Bakersfield, CA, to stop clinging to an old identity and start standing in the promises of God. In Christ, we have a new identity, yet many of us as followers of Christ resist receiving who God declares us to be. We know Gods promises intellectually but struggle to truly own it in our hearts. Listen, be encouraged, and start standing in the truth!PODCAST RESOURCES​Watch Video RecordingPURE ENCOURAGEMENT RESOURCES​Download the Stronghold Buster Worksheet​Don't miss our 30 Day Identity Challenge, starting in January!​Bi-weekly Blog​Need Soul Care? Join a Journey Group​More Free Resources at our Website

    Ep. 64 | LIVE Seminar Session on Living a Confident, Victorious Life in Christ | Be Strong and Courageous

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2024 37:12


    In this episode, we share the final session of a recent seminar on living a confident, victorious life in Christ. Many students, young people, and adults are slaves to: The fear of failure The fear of what others think Insecurity Comparison traps Performance anxiety Discouragement Selfish ambition When Jesus saved us, He broke the power of sin in our life and put His Spirit within us. God gives us everything we need to live a godly, victorious life ( 2 Peter 1:3). The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in us (1 Corinthians 3:16, 6:19). We are no longer alone and powerless. We are strong and immovable in Christ. God did not give us a Spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). How do we live a confident, victorious life in Christ? Listen and be encouraged. This session focuses on how to win in the soul, the mind, and the strength as followers of Christ. Want to host a live seminar or invite Gary to speak? Contact Pure Encouragement

    Ep. 63 | Sharing the Gospel with Confidence in the Sports World - Training Session (Video & Powerpoint Included)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2024 53:19


    What do you say when someone asks you about your faith in Christ? How do you stand strong against peer pressure? What is an effective strategy to start spiritual conversations and reach your team for Christ? Join us as we discuss these questions and more on how to share the Gospel with confidence in the sports world. This video is the teaching portion of the event. PODCAST RESOURCES Training Session Workbook Training Session Powerpoint

    Ep. 62 | Stop Believing Lies About Who You Are

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 18:50


    In this episode, we discuss how to break free from mental strongholds, negative thoughts, and specifically the lies we believe about who we are. We are not defined by our performance and what others think. We are who God declares us to be! "You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free" (John 8:32) Podcast Notes Stronghold Buster Worksheet - Free PDF We are Pure Encouragement. Our Mission At Pure Encouragement, our mission is to come alongside Competitors for Christ to strengthen and encourage them to compete with excellence and make an eternal impact. In the New Testament, the word most often translated as "encouragement" is "parakalein." This term comes from two Greek words: "para" meaning "alongside of" and "kaleo" meaning "to call.” A Parakletos is therefore an Encourager, one who puts courage into the fainthearted, strength into the weak, life into the downtrodden, confidence into the insecure, and steadfastness into every warrior in the face of great trial. We believe this is our role in the Body of Christ. We are the Pure Encouragers of the sports community on a mission to strengthen every Competitor for Christ to intimacy with Jesus, strong confidence, servant leadership, excellent performance, and eternal impact. Our Story In September 2021, the Lord called the Steffes family to follow Him into the unknown. After much prayer, Gary and his wife Michelle stepped out in faith knowing the Lord's call was to be "in ministry." The Lord began to open doors in the sports world with competitors, teams, and universities around the country. Momentum grew. The Inside Out Confidence message spread. Journey groups started. The Pure Encouragement ministry officially started on May 3, 2022. Today, the ministry gets the privilege to come alongside Competitors for Christ at all levels and in multiple sports around the world. More info at pureencouragement.org

    Ep. 61 | Becoming a High Performance Leader of Character (feat. Dr. Anthony Randall - President of Vanguard XXI, Former Army Ranger, Army Chaplain in Special Operations, and MLB Chaplain)

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 44:03


    In this episode, Dr. Anthony Randall speaks about becoming a high performance leader of character, practicing excellence, and how to build a high performance, strong character, championship team culture. Dr. Anthony has taught, trained, and coached over 15,000 professionals across the US Army, Special Operations Units, Major League Baseball, NCAA Division 1 sports, Fortune 100 and 500 companies, health care, higher education, law enforcement, and the church. He is an International Coaching Federation Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and proprietor of two ICF Coaching Courses.  Anthony is a West Point graduate, Army Ranger and retired Lieutenant Colonel with six combat tours to Iraq and Afghanistan. He served as an Army Chaplain in Special Operations, LEOs, and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He holds a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership, a Japanese Jiu-Jitsu black belt, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu purple belt. GUEST LINKS Vanguard XXI Website EPISODE LINKS Dr Anthony's new book, Practicing Excellence: Restoring Civility, Faith & Trusted Leadership in the Public Square, launches October 1, 2024. In the book, Dr. Anthony presents a compelling exploration of the challenges facing contemporary society and the need to pursue a life of practicing excellence as trusted leaders of character. You can also join the book launch team. Practice Makes Permanent by Anthony Randall

    Ep. 60 | 4 Essential Questions to Building a Championship Team Culture - Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2024 18:34


    In this episode, we continue our discussion on four simple, yet powerful questions that if answered clearly can mobilize our teams to not only win championships but make an eternal impact. Helpful Tools Building Championship Culture ⁠Free PDF⁠ Learn how Pure Encouragement can help you and your team specifically - ⁠Schedule a Free Call with Gary

    Ep. 59 | 4 Essential Questions to Building a Championship Team Culture

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2024 21:48


    In this episode we discuss a simple, yet powerful set of questions that if answered clearly can mobilize teams to extraordinary achievement. Helpful Tools Building Championship Culture Free PDF Learn how Pure Encouragement can help you and your team specifically - Schedule a Free Call with Gary

    Ep. 58 | Living a Confident Victorious Life - Part I - My Story and the Inside Out Transformation

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 19:38


    In this episode, we discuss how to live a confident, victorious life in Christ! 
When Jesus saved us, He broke the power of sin and put His Spirit within us. God gives us everything we need to live a godly, victorious life ( 2 Peter 1:3). The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in us (1 Corinthians 3:16, 6:19). We are no longer alone and powerless. We are strong and immovable in Christ. God did not give us a Spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
Confidence is possible but it does not happen from the outside in; it happens from the Inside Out. 
Jesus said in Mark 12:30, "And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." We believe the order matters. Inside Out. 
Listen and be encouraged! 
Click HERE more Confidence and Soul Care resources 


    Ep. 57 | From the Journal - Wisdom, Peace, and Being Strong in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 31:46


    In this episode, Gary is joined by three of his closest friends in life as they share from their journals what God has been showing them recently. The three men alongside Gary on the call are: - Chris Heaton - Pure Encouragement Board Member, former US National Team diver and elite Crossfit athlete. He currently serves as a realtor and mortgage loan officer in CA. - Josh Sherley - Pure Encouragement Board Member, former Fresno State football and All State CA wrestler. He currently serves as Regional Director at Influencers Global Ministries Bakersfield. - Brad Newburg - Influencers Bakersfield Board Member and current VP at Trinity Safety Company. • www.pureencouragement.org on abiding in Christ and living victoriously • Build your relationship with God - www.pureencouragement.org/journey

    Ep. 56 | 3 Marks of an Extraordinary Team Captain

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2024 18:42


    In this episode, we discuss 3 Marks of an Extraordinary Team Captain. Our leadership increases when we adopt a "Come with me" attitude, establish clear vision, and encourage others. Click ⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠ for the full PDF - 5 Keys of an Extraordinary Captain For more resources to Compete for Christ click ⁠⁠⁠HERE

    Ep. 55 | Winning in the Offseason Spiritually - Becoming Inside Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 18:46


    In this episode, we discuss training spiritually for the upcoming season so that we can live victoriously and be prepared for the battles ahead. How do we train spiritually? We go on offense pursuing intimacy with Jesus Christ and becoming Inside Out. Download Identity in Christ Statements⁠ Join a Confidence Group Join a Journey Group More Free Tools

    Ep. 54 | Winning in the Offseason Mentally - Go On Offense and Become a Critical Thinker

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2024 19:50


    In this episode, we fight to go on offense and become a critical thinker as Competitors for Christ. It is not a wise plan to think that if we just get physically stronger we will become mentally tougher. The mind is a muscle. We must train it diligently. Order the Mental Side Book Take the 30 Day Identity Challenge Join a Confidence Group

    Ep. 53 | Winning In The Offseason Physically - Interview with Chris Kerr (Assistant Athletic Director of Sports Performance at Liberty University)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2024 68:43


    In this episode, I interview Chris Kerr from Liberty University on how to maximize our physical training in the offseason. We discuss how to get faster, stronger, put on weight, and increase conditioning level. We also address best practices for pro athletes, college, and youth. In his first year Chris was on staff to see the first two National Championships captured in the Liberty University Club Sports department's history in both Wrestling and the Women's D1 Hockey team. He has continued to coach teams that have gone deep into their respective National Tournaments, some coming away with more National Titles.   Chris holds several certifications: United States Weightlifting Level 1: 2019 Reflexive Performance Reset: 2018 Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist: 2015 Functional Movement Systems: 2013 For more from Chris Kerr: Maximizing the Offseason Virtual Webinar Email at coachchriskerr@gmail.com Twitter @coachchriskerr Instagram @coachchriskerr YouTube @coachchriskerr For more resources on soul care, confidence, and leadership, visit the Pure Encouragement Website

    Ep. 52 | Winning In The Offseason - Take The Risk

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2024 20:37


    In this episode, we fight to overcome discouragement, fear, and hesitancy, and attack the offseason with boldness, courage, and faith. Be strong and courageous! Take the risk! "If you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat" - John Ortberg

    Ep. 51 | Mental Toughness - Be Strong

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2024 18:10


    In this episode, we discuss that to be mentally tough, we need to "Be Strong." Our strength increases when we talk to ourselves, increase our belief, and surrender to Christ. Click ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠ for a full length training session on Mental Toughness.  For more resources to Compete for Christ click ⁠⁠HERE

    Ep. 50 | Mental Toughness - Establishing a Clear Vision and Big Why

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2024 18:45


    In this episode, we discuss the importance of establishing a clear and compelling vision, and a Big Why bigger than ourselves to increase mental toughness. Click ⁠HERE⁠ for a full length training session on Mental Toughness. For more resources to Compete for Christ click ⁠HERE

    Ep. 49 | Bold Prayer Warriors

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2024 19:03


    We are spiritual warriors in a spiritual fight. Get encouraged to be a bold prayer warrior! God does extraordinary things with ordinary people. Join the Prayer Day April 12 ⁠HERE⁠ Get Free Tools for Confidence ⁠HERE

    Ep. 48 | Easter Devotion - Overwhelmed By Love

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2024 18:32


    In this episode, we celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and how being overwhelmed by love changes us as Competitors. The three areas we focus on are how God's love increases our mental toughness, changes us as teammates, and makes us courageous. Join the Prayer Day April 12 HERE Get Free Tools for Confidence HERE

    Ep. 47 | Mental Toughness - Three Enemies to Perseverance

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2024 18:36


    Mental toughness is possible and is essential to being an elite competitor. In this episode, we discuss three enemies to perseverance - buckling, bailing, and blaming. All three can rob us of the blessings God brings when we endure trial. Click HERE for a full length training session on Mental Toughness Through Adversity. For more resources to compete for Christ and build confidence click HERE

    Ep. 46 | Mental Toughness - Perspective Matters

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2024 17:33


    Mental toughness is essential to being an elite competitor. Every athlete and coach faces adversity and must stand against negative thoughts, insecurities, emotions, and discouragement. To be mentally tough is to have the ability to withstand great mental strain or hardship without breaking. This episode launches a short series on building mental toughness so we can compete for Christ with excellence and make an eternal impact. Click HERE for a full length training session on Mental Toughness Through Adversity. For more resources to compete for Christ and build confidence visit www.pureencouragement.org.

    Ep. 45 | Do You Have a Strategy For Confidence

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 18:31


    I was recently asked by a professional athlete, "Do you have a strategy for confidence?" The answer is YES! It is simple and easy to put into action. Stop letting fear and insecurity destroy your confidence. Start taking action today. Through Christ, CONFIDENCE IS POSSIBLE! For more resources to build your confidence and compete for Christ, go to www.pureencouragement.org

    Ep. 044 - Overcoming Anxiety as an Elite Athlete - Interview with Mitch Fossier

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2024 23:03


    Mitch Fossier is a current professional hockey player, ECHL All-Star, and former Captain at Maine University. He competes among the highest levels of hockey and has also faced an internal wrestle to overcome anxiety. In this episode, Mitch shares insights he has learned to walk in victory and remain confident.

    Ep. 043 - The Power of Standing Firm in Your Identity in Christ! Launch the New Year Standing on God's Promises!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2023 15:48


    Have you ever struggled with thinking your worth and value is tied to your performance and what others think? As a result, you ride a roller coaster of emotion depending on how a game goes, or what a coach says. This was my story. God changed my life. In this episode, I share my story and personal experiences on learning to root out the lie that my significance is tied to my performance and what others think. God ALONE determines who we are! Lets launch 2024 standing firm in our Identity in Christ! Podcast Notes Join us for the 30 Day Identity Challenge HERE Get the 30 Day Identity Challenge Materials HERE Download the PE App HERE Download Identity in Christ PDF HERE This New Year is going to be AWESOME! Let's crush the year for Jesus Christ Friends!

    Ep. 42 | Inside Out Confidence - Tabor College Chapel

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2023 27:24


    Fear and insecurity are killing competitors confidence. As coaches and athletes, we fight the fears of failure and rejection, performance anxiety, comparison traps, discouragement, and more. Thanks be to God confidence is possible through Jesus Christ! Listen and be encouraged as Gary shares his confidence story from massive struggles with fear and insecurity to learning to walk in victory and compete for Christ at the professional level. Confidence is an Inside Out endeavor! For more resources to strengthen and encourage you as a Competitor for Christ visit the Pure Encouragement website at www.pureencouragement.org.

    Ep. 41 | Trusting God Through Adversity with Talor Joseph (Pro Hockey Goalie)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2023 20:32


    Trusting God through adversity is not easy. When unexpected trials hit like rejection, criticism, injury, or being traded, we have choice to surrender and trust the Lord, or try to take the matter into our own hands. In today's episode, Talor Joseph shares from his experience on trusting God through adversity as a professional hockey goaltender. Strength comes through surrender! I pray this message blesses you! For more: Free Resource: Identity in Christ PDF: ⁠Download Here ⁠ www.pureencouragement.org⁠

    Episode 40 - Competing for Christ at the Pro Hockey Level - Interview with Quinn Ryan (Worcester ECHL)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2023 28:59


    Listen and be encouraged as I interview Quinn Ryan, current professional hockey player for the Worcester Railers (ECHL), all about competing for Christ at the professional level. Quinn shares his story, lessons learned, and how he is dealing with current adversities. We cover topics such as: Identity in Christ Overcoming adversity Trusting God's plan Competing with purpose I pray this message blesses you! For more: Free Resource: Identity in Christ PDF: ⁠Download Here ⁠ ⁠www.pureencouragement.org⁠

    Episode 39 - Behind the Scenes - Chris Heaton - Former US National Team Diver and Top 500 CrossFit Athlete

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2023 57:07


    Chris Heaton gained the world accomplishing unparalleled success in the diving world. Between 2005-2009, Chris won 8 MAC Championships and set 16 MAC Records for diving. Following college, he competed on the National Level for Team USA. When diving ended, Chris became a top 500 Worldwide CrossFit athlete. Listen as Chris shares his story about where true and lasting satisfaction comes from. At the heights of success, after winning his 8th MAC Championship, he was empty and unfulfilled. "Is this it?" This experience led him to ask important questions about God, life, and purpose. "And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?" Matthew 16:26 NLT

    Episode 38 - Living a Confident, Victorious Christian Life - Interview with Josh Sherley (Staff Member at Influencers Bakersfield) and Brad Newburg (VP at Trinity Safety Company and Ministry Leader)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2023 45:16


    Every Christian fights to live a confident, victorious Christian life. We wrestle to overcome sin, trial, discouragement, criticism, opposition, and personal insecurities. Listen and be encouraged as I have a round table discussion with two of my favorite people, Josh Sherley (Staff member at Influencers Bakersfield) and Brad Newburg (VP at Trinity Safety Company and Ministry Leader) on living a confident, victorious life. Through Christ, Confidence is absolutely possible! I pray this message blesses you! For more episodes, resources, and ways to increase your confidence and get soul care, visit our website at www.pureencouragement.org

    Episode 37 - Confidence Series Part 6 - Becoming Inside Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2023 17:05


    Every competitor fights for confidence. The fears of failure, rejection, and the future are relentless enemies. Anxiety and insecurity can hard to overcome. Many athletes battle to stay encouraged when they face trial or criticism. Is confidence even possible? Listen and be encouraged as I talk about Becoming Inside Out. Confidence starts in the heart. We need to win the heart battle! Through Christ, Confidence is absolutely possible! I pray this message blesses you! Episode Links Identity in Christ PDF: ⁠Download Here ⁠ If you or your team want to grow in your confidence please contact Gary at gary@garysteffes.com. For more Resources and Events - ⁠www.pureencouragement.org⁠

    Episode 36 - Confidence Series Part 5 - Interview with Chris McKelvie - Head Coach Bethel University Men's Hockey

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2023 44:54


    Every competitor fights for confidence. The fears of failure, rejection, and the future are relentless enemies. Anxiety and insecurity can hard to overcome. Many athletes battle to stay encouraged when they face trial or criticism. Is confidence even possible? Listen and be encouraged as I interview Chris McKelvie, Head Coach at Bethel University Men's Hockey, all about confidence. Identity in Christ Overcoming adversity Trusting God's plan Competing for Christ with courage Through Christ, Confidence is absolutely possible! I pray this message blesses you! Episode Links Join the 30 Day Identity Challenge this April 2023! Register Here for FREE Identity in Christ PDF: Download Here  If you or your team want to grow in your confidence please contact Gary at gary@garysteffes.com. For more Resources and Events - www.pureencouragement.org

    Episode 35 - Confidence Series Part 4 - Get Rooted in Your Identity in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2023 16:46


    Every competitor fights for confidence. The fears of failure, rejection, and the future are relentless enemies. Anxiety and insecurity can hard to overcome. Many athletes battle to stay encouraged when they face trial or criticism.Is confidence even possible? Listen and be encouraged as we talk about how essential it is to get rooted in our Identity in Christ! We are not defined by our performance and what others think; we are defined by who He declares us to be! Through Christ, Confidence is absolutely possible! I pray this message blesses you! Episode Links Join the 30 Day Identity Challenge this April 2023! Register Here for FREE Identity in Christ PDF: Download Here If you or your team want to grow in your confidence please contact Gary at gary@garysteffes.com. For more Resources and Events - www.garysteffes.com

    Episode 34 - Confidence Series Part 3 - The Foundation for Confidence - Abide in Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2023 17:36


    Every competitor fights for confidence. The fears of failure, rejection, and the future are relentless enemies. Anxiety and insecurity can hard to overcome. Many athletes battle to stay encouraged when they face trial or criticism. Is confidence even possible? Listen and be encouraged as we talk about the foundation for confidence - Abiding in Christ! When we abide in Him, He will produce fruit in us. Through Christ, Confidence is absolutely possible! I pray this message blesses you! Episode Links If you or your team want to grow in your confidence please contact me at gary@garysteffes.com. I would love to hear your unique situation and discuss how Pure Encouragement can help For more Resources and Events - www.garysteffes.com

    Episode 33 - Confidence Series Part 2 - An Offensive Mindset

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2023 14:56


    Every competitor fights for confidence. The fears of failure, approval, and the future are relentless enemies that cause anxiety, inconsistency, and other challenges. Many athletes battle insecurity. Others fight to stay encouraged when they face unexpected trials or people criticize. Is confidence even possible? Listen and be encouraged as we talk about the importance of an Offensive Mindset! Through Christ, Confidence is absolutely possible! I pray this message blesses you! Episode Links If you or your team want to grow in your confidence please contact me at gary@garysteffes.com. I would love to hear your unique situation and discuss how Pure Encouragement can help For more Resources and Events - www.garysteffes.com

    Episode 32 - Confidence is Possible!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2023 14:31


    Every competitor fights for confidence. The fears of failure, approval, and the future are relentless enemies that cause anxiety, inconsistency, and other challenges. Many athletes battle insecurity. Others fight to stay encouraged when they face unexpected trials or people criticize. Is confidence even possible? Listen and be encouraged as I share my personal story and how God radically transformed my confidence. At one point, I feared failure to the point of minor panic attacks on the ice. By the end of my career, God transformed me into a confident competitor and courageous leader. Through Christ, confidence is absolutely possible! I pray this message blesses you! Episode Links The Mental Side Confidence Course Starts January 16! Register HERE The Mental Side Course is born from personal experience. "At one point, I feared failure to the point of minor panic attacks on the ice. By the end of my career, God transformed me into a confident competitor and courageous leader. If God can transform me, He can transform anyone." - Gary Steffes Confidence is possible! Here are the topics that will be covered: 1/16 - ABIDING - Staying connected to the Power Source Jesus Christ as a Competitor 1/23 - IDENTITY - The foundation to confidence. We must know who we are in Christ! 1/30 - BIG WHY - When we discover a purpose bigger than ourselves our performance elevates. 2/6 - FORTIFIED MIND - Overcoming fear, lies, doubts, and comparison traps 2/13 - PURE HEART - Guarding your heart against jealousy, anger, and pride 2/20 - BOLD AMBASSADORS - Tools for how to share your faith with confidence 2/27 - OPTIONAL BONUS WEEK - MENTAL TACTICS - How to prepare for a game, focus words, imagery, breathing, and journaling Date: Monday Nights - January 16 - February 27 Time: 7-8 pm Eastern Time Who: All Athletes (Youth - Pro) are invited Where: Zoom Cost: $30 Materials Needed: Mental Side Book and Mental Side Training Manual. Mental Side Books can be ordered at www.garysteffes.com/resources. Mental Side Training Manual is included and will be sent via PDF upon registration. We hope you will join us! www.garysteffes.com

    Episode 31 - Christmas and the Competitor for Christ

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2022 14:32


    What does Christmas have to do with the Competitor for Christ? A lot! Because God is faithful to His promises, we can trust Him completely with our career Because God is with us, we can live with courage and strength in all circumstances Because God is irrationally generous, we can be irrationally generous to our teammates Listen and be encouraged as I share about Christmas and the Competitor for Christ. I pray it blesses you! Merry Christmas! Episode Links My Identity in Christ PDF - Click HERE Coaches Soul Care Groups - Click HERE www.garysteffes.com

    Episode 30 - God's Grace to Compete and Live Boldly

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2022 14:59


    "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7) Have you ever struggled with hesitancy, second guessing, or competing timidly? Do you want to compete and live boldly? Listen and be encouraged as I share from experience about how God's grace empowers us to compete and live boldly! No matter what you are going through this episode is sure to encourage your soul and give some practical applications! Episode Links My Identity in Christ PDF - Click HERE Coaches Soul Care Groups - Click HERE www.garysteffes.com

    The Power of God's Grace - His Love Empowers Our Love!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2022 15:55


    "We love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19) Have you ever struggled with trying to love God only to find yourself falling short and getting tired? Or have you ever wrestled with thinking God views you through the lens of your performance? Listen and be encouraged as I share from experience about the power of God's grace! I'm learning the significant difference between being focused on my love for Him versus being overwhelmed by His love for me! No matter what you are going through this episode is sure to encourage your soul and give some practical applications! When we experience Gods grace, it changes everything! Episode Links My Identity in Christ PDF - Click HERE Coaches Soul Care Groups, please fill out the Contact Form and Gary will call you directly to plug you in! - Click HERE 2 Free Mental Side Training Manual Chapters - Click HERE www.garysteffes.com

    Episode 28 - To Deeply Trust God We Have To Understand The Way He Loves and Views Us!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2022 13:18


    "Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!" (Isaiah 30:18) How does God love us and view us? Does He love us as a conditional Father? Does He view us through the lens of our performance? For instance, if we perform well, we are wanted and in the family, but if we do not perform well, we are rejected and replaceable. Is this how God loves us and views us? Listen and be encouraged as I share from experience about how God loves us unconditionally and views us through the lens of His gracious promises. God is an unconditionally loving Father and He longs to be gracious to us. When we experience Gods grace, it changes everything! Episode Links My Identity in Christ PDF - Click HERE Coaches Soul Care Groups, please fill out the Contact Form and Gary will call you directly to plug you in! - Click HERE 2 Free Mental Side Training Manual Chapters - Click HERE www.garysteffes.com

    Episode 27 - God Does Extraordinary Things with Ordinary People Whose Hearts are Fully Surrendered to Him!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2022 12:46


    Have you ever felt inadequate to do what God was calling you to do? I cannot count the amount of times I have felt weak, scared, discouraged, unqualified, or just plain ordinary. Thanks be to our gracious God He still uses us. And even more, He does extraordinary things with ordinary people whose hearts are fully surrendered to Him!! Listen and be encouraged as I share from experience about Gods grace to use us as ordinary people to do extraordinary things if we will fully surrender to Him. Episode Links For those who want to connect with Adam David Welch about freelance media - Click HERE For those who want to learn more about our Coaches Soul Care Groups, please fill out the Contact Form and Gary will call you directly to invite you! - Click HERE Free Mental Side Training Manual Chapters - Click HERE www.garysteffes.com

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