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How Non-Quitters Changed the World
You're exhausted. As you see your time and joy being spent on something that isn't going the way you planned... some days you wonder if it'd just be better to quit.
Whether it's now or later, we're all faced with a choice between good and easy, between continuing on through difficulty or giving up. When that day comes, what will you choose?
Doug Gehman observed firsthand how God used one man's relentless perseverance to change a country, and it changed him. In this book he shares dozens of stories of ordinary people who did extraordinary things for the kingdom of God because they simply kept going—through pain, discouragement, loss, and failure. He'll teach you how to cultivate a gritty perseverance that counts the cost and follows through. Become a person of courage and commitment. It'll cost you dearly, but it will change your life forever.
Praise for Before You Quit
"This book will propel you to realign your perspective on what is important in your spiritual journey. This book messes with what we have always thought is important in our spiritual journey. Every chapter is thought provoking and challenges you to keep pushing forward for His glory."
—BRUCE TERRY
Lead Pastor, Liberty Church, Birmingham, AL
"Throughout life, I have found myself faced with circumstances greater than my ability to overcome. The overwhelming urge to quit is something I believe we have all faced, and will certainly face again. In Doug Gehman's book Before You Quit, he gives you key principles not only to help stand and endure, but for how to dig deep and fight for the greater vision and purpose of our lives. If you are in a season of struggle, or just can't seem to get rooted in your career, ministry, or community, this book is a must read! Let me encourage you, before you resign, throw in the towel, or turn and run away, read this book!"
—NATHAN POOLEY
Lead Pastor, Upper Room Church
"You won't find the word grit in the Bible, but it's there nonetheless. Scripture is brimming with gritty examples of individuals full of persistence and courage to be the person God called them to be. I've had the distinct privilege in my life to be surrounded by courageous people, my dad and mom being at the forefront. This new book by my friend Doug is not only wonderfully written, but will challenge and encourage you to build up your courage and endurance to be all that God has planned for you to be."
—ANDREW PALAU
Evangelist and author
"Douglas Gehman knows what he writes about! I have a long-time friendship with him and have been privileged to serve as his pastor for several years. He has persevered through many times that others wouldn't have. His integrity is too rare in today's culture. He is a proven leader and communicator. I am SO grateful for this new addition to every resilient leader's library."
—DOUG HOLMES
Senior Pastor, Christian Life Church, Milton, FL
"In Before You Quit, my friend Doug Gehman has addressed, with real insight and inspiration, the challenge we all face, no matter the pursuit. I have gained renewed strength for my own journey by reading his book, and I am a convinced that you will as well!"
—JOSH LIPSCOMB
Lead Pastor of Liberty Church
"Even if you're not on the verge of quitting something, life takes a toll on all of us . . . draining our perseverance level. Doug has written an essential book that refuels our tank to overflowing, helping us go the distance . . . with purpose and joy!"
—DAVID MAYO
General Manager, WHBR TV Christian Television Network Pensacola, FL
"I was delighted to read the outstanding book Before You Quit by Doug Gehman. It is a book that is way past due for Corporate Executives, evangelical leaders, pastors, missionaries, and all who have a desire to fulfill their life's calling and purpose. In my 40+ years of ministry, I can think of many, many instances where this book could have circumvented many who quit before the fulfillment of their objectives. I will be making this a must read for members of our organization. Doug has made this a great read with many outstanding quotes and his own personal experiences to highlight each chapter and to drive home the theme of this book. You won't be disappointed, and you will be recommending it to many others."
—DAVID KERR
Executive Director of the Global Alliance Networks
"In a culture that seems confused, divided, and stagnant in so many ways, this book is a reminder to build life on truth and to persevere on that solid foundation. It is a great challenge to finish well and finish strong! Thank you, Doug, for your transparency and reminding us to not grow weary in doing well."
—JOHN SPENCER
Senior Pastor at Coastline Calvary Chapel, Gulf Breeze, FL
"This is an essential book for our times. I have known Doug for over a decade and have learned that to know Doug is to know resilience. From the challenges of raising a young family on a shoestring as a missionary in Southeast Asia to leading a missions agency into the twenty-first century, to pressing forward when most his age are looking back, Doug continues to persevere. If you are thinking of quitting, read this book; it may just change your life."
—MIKE DOYLE
Lead Pastor of Movement Church NYC
"Augustine of Hippo wrote of perseverance as a separate gift of God's grace that empowered a believer to persist to the end. Doug Gehman reveals that character quality in his life from a perspective of God's grace, but also viewed from man's choices of faithfulness. Before You Quit is a balanced look at the tools our Father provides to encourage all believers to continue walking His path, in spite of the hardships."
—ROBERT GRIFFITH
Dermatologist and Certified in Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator
"I highly recommend to you my friend Doug Gehman's must-read new book Before You Quit. Many in our generation start out strong, but find themselves quitting during times of difficulty. This impactful book takes us on a journey of learning to find grace from our God that causes us to refuse to quit when facing challenging seasons in our lives. We can then experience the fulfillment of God's purposes as we live a life of perseverance that brings glory to Him."
—LARRY KREIDER
International Director, DOVE Intl.
Author of over 40 books
"In the world of ministry, the most powerful enemy we have is discouragement. Discouragement sometimes causes us to walk too close to the edge of safety, it can cause us to feel hopeless, and it can push us to a place of no return. I know because I have walked there. Doug Gehman's new book Before You Quit is a powerful dose of uplifting reality, energetic encouragement that reminds us that no matter how hard the road may become, there is hope. It is filled with examples of others who have made it, scriptural edification, and personal stories from his own life that can be a lifeline to other leaders. This is not just "another book on a needed topic," it is a book from the heart of a leader who has been there."
—JAMES G. GRAHAM
President, International Gospel Outreach
Founder/President, Access to Growth Life Coaching and Training
"Doug Gehman has successfully articulated the most essential ingredient that every person must have for success—perseverance. His insights are both profound and practical. Doug is writing not from a mere theoretical perspective, but he has lived out his message in this book. You will enjoy the read and eternally benefit from the insights!"
—DANNY TICE
Lead Pastor, Bay Shore Community Church
"I met Doug Gehman at a conference, but I got to know him on a visit to the mission field . . . where he was "getting it done." Our church worked with Doug for many years during the trying and dangerous days of the civil war in Sri Lanka. Doug's "against the odds" perseverance was the key that enabled him to plant church after church in the most difficult of times. If anyone knows about perseverance, it's Doug Gehman. Now turn the page and get ready to be inspired!"
—MICHAEL FLETCHER
Senior Pastor, Manna Church
"Before You Quit is authentic advice stained with the sincerity, honesty, and conviction of a man who has tasted the price of perseverance. These words will inspire you to hold steady in your personal storm and give you the capacity to inspire others not to give up."
—MICHAEL P. CAVANAUGH
President Elim Bible Institute and College
"Having been in ministry both as a missionary and a mission administrator for over forty years, I place Before You Quit at the top of the list of anyone considering serving in missions—in fact, for any Christian service. Sharing from his personal experiences, coupled with stories from history, and based upon biblical foundations, Doug has written a must read. This is a relevant and vital word for the church today written from a true friend who has and is persevering!"
—STEVE SHANK
Strategic Coach, Eastern Mennonite Missions