Energy: The Bridge Between Average and Elite
We’re all wired with the potential to rise above average and live a life of excellence. Whether you lead a company, a classroom, a church, or your own household, you’re called to more than just coasting through life. You're called to make an impact.
Right now, we’re in a series focused on what separates elite performers from the rest—what moves someone from just showing up to showing out. Today, we’re unpacking Principle #4: Energy.
We often think the key to success is vision or talent. But while those matter, without energy—the stamina to endure, the drive to get up again, the strength to push forward—it all falls apart. As Jerry Seinfeld once said, “Energy is the most valuable quantity of human life.” And I couldn’t agree more.
When I Surrendered to God, I Asked One Thing
When I said “yes” to God back in the 70s, I surrendered everything—my life, my dreams, even my Corvette and my Kawasaki 900. I gave it all to Him. But I asked Him for one thing in return: “Lord, I just don’t want to be average.”
I didn’t want to coast through my calling—I wanted to be excellent at it. And for over 40 years, God has blessed that desire here at Church on the Rock in St. Louis. I’m a pastor, teacher, author, entrepreneur, employer, and coach. And I’ve learned this truth: it takes energy to live an elite life.
Energy Is the Fuel for Endurance
Endurance is a requirement for anyone who wants to lead and last. When we planted our church, my own family told me I wouldn’t make it. Maybe you've been there too—people didn’t believe in your dream, didn’t see your potential, didn’t cheer you on.
But you need energy to outlast the opposition.
You need energy to show up even when you don’t feel like it.
You need energy to keep moving when life says stop.
And the good news is: you can build that energy. You can protect that energy. You can multiply that energy.
Let me break it down.
Energy Takers vs. Energy Givers
If you want to live a life of impact, you need to eliminate the things that drain you and lean into the things that fuel you.
❌ Energy Takers:
Focusing on the past: Learn from it but don’t live in it.
Inconsistent sleep: Sleep is your superpower for longevity.
Clutter and mess: Clarity comes through order.
Social media overload: Use it, don’t let it use you.
Overworking and dehydration: Your body matters. Steward it well.
Resentment and negativity: Bitterness is like drinking poison hoping others get sick.
Junk food, alcohol, stress, and fear: These things don't just wear out your body—they wear out your soul.
Remember: what you allow will eventually lead you.
✅ Energy Givers:
Nature and sunlight: Get outside. Breathe. Reset.
Rest and consistent sleep: Schedule your recovery.
Courage and positivity: Energy follows bold, faith-filled steps.
Gratitude: Start a gratitude journal or go on a gratitude walk.
Hydration and whole foods: Fuel your body like your future depends on it—because it does.
Breathwork and movement: Learn it, practice it, feel the difference.
Community: The right people will lift your energy—and your vision.
Learning something new daily: Growth keeps you alive and motivated.
Here at Church on the Rock, one of our power phrases is: “I am a lifelong learner.” I believe that’s true of you too, or you wouldn’t be here reading this.
Final Thoughts
Elite leadership doesn’t start with a platform—it starts with a choice. A choice to protect your energy, live intentionally, and grow consistently. It’s not complicated. But it is costly.
Average is easy. But God didn’t call you to average.
He called you to purpose, excellence, and impact.
So let me ask you:
What do you need to eliminate that’s draining your energy?
What can you build into your daily routine to boost your energy?
Let’s live our best life—not someday, but today.
