This Sunday at Inspire Church Honolulu, I shared a message about one of my favorite underdog stories—Jonathan and his armor-bearer. Growing up in a small town, I wasn’t the tallest, and I wasn’t a starter on the court, but that didn’t mean I wasn’t putting in the work. Maybe you’ve felt overlooked or underestimated too. But here's the truth: God uses people who move forward in faith—even from the bench—to step into their purpose. If you’ve ever felt like the underdog, this one’s for you.

An essential, fundamental core value of Inspire Church is to Make Disciples. Pastor Mike Kai sets in motion an invigorating new message series on how this pertains to all of us. You may unknowingly already be the answer to someone’s prayer through the laying of hands, words of encouragement, or simply a kind act or smile.

God forewarns us of the persecution, tribulation, and discomfort that’s sure to befall us. We all encounter disappointment, distractions, and circumstances where things didn’t work out. Pastor Mike assures us that while it won’t be easy, it’ll be worth it with absolutely no regrets. Be prepared to come “Off the Bench” and allow God to use you and have His way with you.

God is perfectly poised to do great things in your life and entrust you with His grace, mighty power, and a vision for your life. It’ll take the right response to be saved from ourselves and to trust in the plan of the Lord. It’ll replace our fears with strength, hope, and everything we need. You’ll be filled with wisdom, the Holy Spirit, and His gentle love to bask in the glory of God!

We conclude our invigorating message series this Father’s Day weekend with Pastor Mike Kai. Pastor Mike addresses brokenness and doubt related to situations, faith, relationships, self-esteem, and finances. God allows brokenness so He can heal you and make you whole again. His perfect power will grant you peace, protection, and restoration.

In moments of weakness, we allow the enemy to launch coordinated attacks that create confusion, a poverty mindset, and self-pity in our minds. We also need to release the idols we hold onto in order to let God’s grace, favor, and blessings flow. Let go of any bitterness and anger that may exacerbate challenging situations.

Trusting, honoring, and drawing closer to God will be your source of confidence. He has not left or disqualified you; rather, God wants you to reach your full potential. ‘Releasing the Fire!’ within you will make you a torchbearer and allow you to burn brightly in the darkness. Following His way will change your life forever!