Escolar Documentos
Profissional Documentos
Cultura Documentos
1
Contents
Introduction 3
Dedications 4
Chapters
1 New Home 9
4 Ample Reason 80
5 New Eyes 93
2
Slay Your Giant
Tim Darnell
©2006 All Rights Reserved
Introduction
You may have been ignoring Your Giant for some time, but at
this moment you are clear that there is no other alternative than
to stand and face him.
It is time to…
3
Dedications:
This book is dedicated to my Father and Mother, David & Sarah Darnell, without whose
unconditional love and support this book and much of my professional career would not be
possible. Thank you, Dad, for passing down your love of the Bible, language, and words.
Thank you, Mom, for passing down your love of music. Thank you both for the joy you have
never failed to exude, and the love and service for your fellow man regardless of race, religion,
or any other factor whatsoever – truly a Christ-like love for all. I love you both with all my
heart.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To my wife, Cathy, for sticking with me for more than twenty years and especially during the
days when Giants were numerous and solutions were not as clear. Thanks for loving me and
letting me realize my dream of inspiring and encouraging others. Thanks for the best kids God
could ever have entrusted us with! You are the love of my life.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To Laura Porter, who stuck with me and believed in me when few else did. Thank you for
the hard work, the intuition, and the joyful heart in spite of the toughest of times. My
constant love to you and your family.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To Jim Wald. If it weren’t for you, the wonderful market-place ministry we now know as
Advantage Conferences would have been an unfulfilled vision. Thank you for your loyalty,
support and friendship. I will never forget your role in my life. Your persistency and positive
faith has been and still is playing a pivotal role in the AC dream that now reaches thousands.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To Jack Weinzierl – a true Champion who epitomizes what being a Christian in the business
world really means. For your incredible talent, tenacity, humble heart, and love for Jesus, I am
a better man.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To Pastor John Mark Caton – a great student and teacher of the Bible, and my beloved
Pastor. May you prosper in every way – thank you for all your inspiration and belief in me,
brother!
4
Tenacity: tough-minded persistency. Non-yielding and tireless
effort regardless of obstacles, opposition and/or
others’ opinions
Think back to the greatest victory in your life. Stop for just a
moment - close your eyes and picture that accomplishment. Feel
the excellence and re-live the goose-bumps that came with that
victory. It may have been an athletic award, an academic honor,
or a business accomplishment. Your memory is truly a treasured
moment - one that makes you feel powerful and positive about
yourself.
Isn’t that the way you should feel all the time?
It is time that you feel that way again. In fact it is time for you
to feel victorious, even euphoric, on a regular basis. Here is my
message to you. That victor, that Champion isn’t just the “past”
you. You are still that same Champion!
5
Truth:
But, first, there is a Giant standing in your way. You are less
likely to accomplish your dream with him blocking your path.
The fact is: Your Giant has got to go.
6
Your Giant is very likely something you created. In most cases,
he’s something you’ve invited into your life of your own volition,
your own choice. The good news is that he’s also someone you
can invite “out” of your life. Although he easily wedged his way
into your life, he will not be escorted out as easily. Whether easy
or not, Your Giant is a problem, a huge hindrance; and once you
decide that he absolutely does not need to be around, you must
take decisive action.
7
This book is going to help you discover what that one “thing” that
will seriously change your life is – and how you are going to
conquer this single issue in your life that needs immediate
attention. What you are about to accomplish is BIG. Indeed,
you are going to dramatically improve not just your life, but also
the lives of those around you. And I predict that you will begin
feeling better and stronger than you have in a long time.
Regardless of your age, your future is extremely bright by virtue
of your reading this book and wrestling with the concepts I am
about to share with you. With Your Giant vanquished and the
addition of several new perspectives and tools for living, your
future days will be much brighter than your past has ever been.
How to Get the Most Out of this Book: The book is interactive, so
get a pen and a highlighter. It is not meant to be entertaining,
although our beta readers have reported that they found themselves
“empowered almost immediately”, and “not wanting to put the book
down.” Although some of the concepts are going to be quite
challenging for you, it is your introspection and personal willingness to
dig deep that will make the words come alive and have meaning for
your life. Indeed, your careful interaction is the most important part
of the content. Don’t rush over each sentence, but rather take the
time to truly contemplate and reflect on each thought.
8
Chapter 1
New Home
There is a very special place within your heart of hearts and your
inmost being. It is a place that is known to you, though you may
have dismissed the thought of going there for years. This is truly
your personal dream place; and yet, it is as real as the words in
front of you at this very moment. It is the place of your destiny.
Your Inner Champion has longed to go there for many years,
simply because it is your rightful, God-given destination.
I call that place New Home. New Home is the true place you
deserve to inhabit, the place you belong – that special, personal
place of greater freedom, independence, fulfillment, effectiveness
and autonomy. It is a place full of greater rewards than you’ve
ever experienced in your life. New Home is the intuitive ideal of
what your perfect life can and should look like.
But we need to take the idea of New Home a step further. You
not only deserve to live in New Home; it is indeed your obligation
to live there.
9
willing to probe deeply and be more introspective than you may
ever have been. Slaying Your Giant will be more readily
accomplished once you are willing to be totally open and honest
with yourself. I want you to be open to the tremendous
possibility of how much better your life is going to be; and at the
same time, I encourage you to be very candid with yourself.
Truth is of paramount importance. Indeed, the truth will set you
free.
Take the time to ask yourself the following questions, and write
down your thoughts. Go ahead. Slaying Your Giant requires
action, and this is the first step…
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
10
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
We then will explore what your personal Giant truly is, and
descriptively what he looks like. But, before we go too much
farther, I am going to ask you a very important question.
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
When we deal with these issues, you’ll begin to gain clarity about
who you are and what you want to accomplish in life. You will
begin to gain clarity about New Home, the obstacle standing in
your way, and the path that will take you to New Home. Take
the time to answer these questions:
11
5. Where in life do I really prefer to be? Who should I
be and what should I be doing?
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
Person A: __________________________________
__________________________________________
Person B: __________________________________
__________________________________________
Person C: __________________________________
__________________________________________
12
8. What makes the people I admire stand out? What do
I see changing about myself in order to be more like
my heroes or heroines?
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
13
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________
A Life-Changing Incident
Understanding a little bit about me will help you know why the
concept, Slay Your Giant, is so very important to me, how it has
changed my life, and why I know you can Slay Your Giant.
When I was a child, I loved to play all kinds of sports. I was the
initiator and organizer of games, contests, and teams – football,
dodge-ball, kick-ball, basketball and baseball. I loved to
compete and test myself athletically. In high-school, I
discovered wrestling, and learned what it takes to be competitive
in that highly demanding and wonderful sport.
14
I grew up the son of a minister Father, and a musician Mother,
which as you can imagine, meant I was in church regularly. I am
very thankful for that. One of the most profound events in my
younger years took place at church camp at the age of 13. The
two counselors that led the seven boys and seven girls who met
twice a day for Bible study and discussion decided that they were
going to use a less traditional, more psychological approach that
week designed to “break down” each camper. What I mean by
that is they came in and asked some of the questions I just
asked you and more. The two counselors got to the
introspective, hidden core of each camper to the point that we
bared our souls, our insecurities, emotional wounds, bad habits,
fears, pride, prejudices, etc. The experience was very emotional
to the point of almost being traumatic; yet, it turned out to be
one of the most profound moments of my life. It opened my
eyes and truly changed my perspective about so many things.
They allowed us to see ourselves at the very core amidst the
façade that so many teenagers present.
If you are open to it, you can readjust your life as well. I believe
you are serious about change in your life – positive, empowering
change or you wouldn’t be reading this book. I should add a few
more stories in order to set the book up even more…
15
called in the sixties and seventies) in my Sophomore year, where
I was the drummer and singer. What was at first a hobby, after
High School, became a serious and professional
entertainment/musical group. After four years on the road with
my first band, I decided to back off the road for a while in order
to finish a college degree, which I did accomplish at Texas Tech
University in Lubbock, Texas in 1980 in Sociology/Psychology
(Magna Cum Laude). That degree and about $3.50 will buy you
a cup of coffee these days! I never used the degree to get a job
or explore those fields further, but the discipline of studying,
getting good grades and finishing what I had set out to do was a
great precursor for later accomplishments.
The fact is, I’ve never pictured myself working for someone else.
My thinking and the way I’m wired have always disposed me to
being psychologically unemployable. I believe in personal
independence as a way of life, and have always treasured being
my own boss, being in charge of my time, and having the ability
to create an unceilinged income based on my production. It
makes no sense to me to put myself in a position where someone
else tells me what to do, when to do it, and how much I’m worth.
Why build another man’s dream when God gives each of us our
own dream? The only reason would be fear of not being able to
make something happen, not being able to be paid for the value
I added to the community – I’ve never responded to that fear.
16
You don’t have to share those same entrepreneurial values, but it
will help you to relate to me more, and to what you are about to
read. Knowing my values may also inspire you to become more
independent - more in charge of your life. I truly believe this
book will help you see yourself in that light.
17
allowed me to be, marketing training and educational products of
my own creation is also a creative and fulfilling life work.
18
extremely educational for me and others who care to listen to my
story.
You can actually learn to enjoy failure and welcome it into your
life! Tim, are you nuts? Not at all. What I’m teaching you now
is the Champion mentality.
As you probably know, the failure rate for business is very high –
some 40 percent plus of all businesses fail within the first five
years according to the US Census Bureau. Other sources show
that rate to be much higher than 40 percent. In any event,
deciding to own and operate a business includes a substantial
chance of failing.
19
I have become tuned in to, and somewhat obsessed with
changing these perennial business failure statistics to reflect
more successes and less failures in the business world at large. I
believe that those statistics not only need to change, they
certainly can change for the better. And I know I can make a
difference in making that change. The difference in winning and
losing is the conditioning of the Enterprising Leader and their
Team’s Mindset, a carefully thought-out Strategy, and tenacious
Execution. Changing statistics in the business community at
large is a monumental thought and an incredible goal, but it can
and should be done – it will happen.
Please understand that I’m not making a sales pitch here for my
company or products, but I do think it is important for you to get
a sense of where I spend the majority of my time, thoughts, and
energy. And I KNOW I have come up with very real answers. I
am indeed in the “CHANGE” business. Our company’s products
are an ongoing drive to change those business failure statistics
through practical education and enlightenment for business
owners. Proper information can change the planet! Improper or
insufficient information can cause a major train wreck in business
and in life.
Business Giants
20
the business I had founded, including the loss of my income for
approximately a year and a half. Thank God I was blessed to
have been able to maintain my family and home, although many
of my fellow entrepreneurs facing similar circumstances have not
been as fortunate.
But there were other signs of the stress I was facing. A business
failure can cause you to start losing things. For instance, after
looking at that remarkably changed face in the mirror that
particular morning, I glanced around the bathroom to discover
we were out of body wash, deodorant, toothpaste, and lo and
behold – toilet paper! How low could we go? It’s rather funny
now, but it was anything but humorous then.
21
critical that this knowledge reaches well-meaning and hard
working business owners for them to avoid problems and even
business failures.
Internal Change
22
became more convinced than ever that “all things work for good
for those who believe” Romans 8:28, and that God is the God of
restoration. See Joel 2:25
23
I mentioned that a business failure causes one to lose things. I
lost all of my credit. And I lost a very nice automobile when the
constable came by my house and said the bank would like to
have it back. At least the wrecker driver, with bright flashing
lights, was semi-polite as he towed my main means of
transportation out of my driveway. Of course, every neighbor
happened to be home at the time and came out of their homes to
see what all the commotion was about! I had “humble pie” for
breakfast that morning!
A great aspect of “Bad” times is you will know, after the fact, that
you can survive them! I had no income – yet, God sustained us
for a much longer period than I would ever have thought
possible. I had no toiletries, but after borrowing from a
neighbor, we were able to stay clean. I lost a very nice car in the
most humiliating way possible, yet not too much later paid for
two late model vehicles with cash! I had bill collectors calling
non-stop, Sunday through Saturday for well over a year, but we
24
finally erased more than $200,000.00 in credit card debt! How
nice to be able to answer your phone and it’s not a bill
collector!!!
Starting the new business was slow going (to put it mildly) and
we barely cash-flowed at all for over a full year and a half. But
eventually, around the start of 2005, our new company,
Advantage Conferences began to become quite successful.
Today, and in a relatively short period of time, the new company,
Advantage Conferences has become a multi-million dollar
company that is reaching thousands of people across the globe,
changing lives through the power of faith and financial education.
NOT QUITTING!
One key component that I want you to learn from my story was
that the second that I resigned from my own Company, I
immediately announced the opening of my new Company. My
resignation and transition to the new company had been carefully
planned. I knew I could not miss a beat. I knew I couldn’t
spend a single second having any kind of pity party. I knew I
could not hesitate in the least.
25
known to man! This is not a suggestion. It is critically important
for your life and success to Not Quit. Giant Slaying requires
consistency and persistency, and not giving up!
“Plan A” – “Plan B”
So, when I came to grips with the fact that “Plan A” was not
working and I was going to have to let my baby (my business)
go, I immediately embarked on finding out what “Plan B” would
be. Thankfully, I did the right thing. I got down on my knees
and told God I would let Him tell me what “Plan B” was to be,
and that I would faithfully act on that plan. In fact, God is the
God of “Plan B”. He is the God of second chances and the God of
new beginnings.
26
Will God really provide “Plan B”? Yes, He absolutely will when
you completely TRUST that He will. We’ll talk more about this
very important subject later, but you will be comforted to know
that God loves you very much and is waiting to clearly lead you
the second you turn that authority over to Him.
I strive every day to walk how the Apostle Paul in the book of
Romans describes father Abraham’s walk. He refers to
Abraham’s life journey as “Footsteps of the Faith.” For Abraham,
the Saints, and you and I – our journey happens one step at a
time with God leading the way. Instead of being terrified of the
future, the changes, the battles, and the unknown, you can walk
with God in full confidence, trust, and joy. That’s the way to
undertake and sustain the journey – one simple Footstep of Faith
at a time.
27
What we’ve learned:
28
Chapter 2
I am excited for you. The simple fact is, your life is about to
change. Giant Slaying begins with identifying your Giant.
After teaching the Slay Your Giant information for some time
now, it’s clear to me that most people don’t need psychoanalysis
to reveal who or what their Giant is. No, most folks know
immediately what their Giant is within seconds of mentioning the
phrase, Slay Your Giant. You, very likely wrote the answer to
that question (#11 above in chapter one) without much
hesitation.
Here are some of the many Giants that people tell me have been
in their life:
Common Giants
A. Fear of Speaking
B. Not Enough Money
C. Being Overweight
D. D-o-u-b-t
E. A Non-fulfilling, Abusive, or Bad Marriage
F. A Personal Enemy
G. Smoking
H. Disobedient Child(ren)
I. Fear of Starting Your Own Business
J. Procrastination
K. Poor Self Image
L. Alcohol
29
M. Drugs
N. Pornography or Sex Obsession
O. Shopping
P. Reluctance to Exercise
Q. Illness
R. Impotence
S. Promiscuity
T. A Job
U. A Boss
V. No or Little Retirement
W.Debt
X. Same Sex Attraction
Y. Fear of Success
Z. Need for Approval
AA. _______________
BB. _______________
Many, many people avoid Giant Slaying. Worse - they don’t even
know certain Giants exist. Those who are not accomplishing
much in life don’t have to worry about Giants. If you are not
moving forward and not purposely realizing your dream of New
Home, you aren’t threatening to anybody physically or spiritually.
But when you do decide to make the move to New Home (the
best decision you can make), you will find plenty of enemies that
will purposely ‘square off’ against you. In fact, your odds of
having enemies are 100 percent. Some of your Giants may not
be a habit or vice, and they may also take human form as was
30
the case with David and his Goliath, and as is listed above (letter
“F”).
Surround yourself with a team that is loyal to you and each other
– people who will ‘watch your back.’ Trust people, but watch
being too open with just anyone regarding details about your
family, private life, business, financial situation, and your past. I
am a transparent person in many ways, but I am also well aware
31
that there are those who purposely plot to abuse friendships and
good intentions. Those acquaintances may seem to be friends,
but they can also have their own agendas diametrically opposed
to you, your beliefs, and your mission.
Toward the end of His life, Jesus issued a similar warning to His
disciples. When He first sent them out, He told His disciples to
go without purse, bag, or sandals, and they lacked for nothing.
But as the opposition became more intense, He said to them,
“But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you
don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.” Luke 22:36 As
you take on more responsibilities and become more vocal with
your message, Jesus’ statement is clear – you will need money,
and you will also need to be prepared to fight your enemies. Go
forward confidently, with the full intention to help and serve
others, but also recognize the very real eventuality of Giants and
enemies entering your life.
I truly hope you not only recognize Your Giant, but that you are
utterly disgusted with your Giant. I really pray that you are
outraged about what this Giant has caused you to miss in your
life.
32
for one thing - the ability to feel again. The absence of pain
often causes a leper to not be alerted to an injury to a limb, for
example, and thereby lose that limb. Pain is a sensation that
may not be pleasant at the time, but serves the very real
purpose of directing you to a need in your physical being. It is a
useful alert and warning system.
No Negotiation
33
and foul smelling clothes that you knew weren’t positive for your
life.
When you firmly and finally decide that you are going to Slay
Your Giant, you are not going to negotiate with him. A dead
Giant can’t be talked to or reasoned with. You’re not going to
argue with or debate him. No, you’ve got to be much more
emphatic and much more severe than you ever have been in the
past regarding separating yourself from this particular Giant.
You are going to begin picturing your life without him once and
for all. You must be firmly resolute in this decision. No more
Giant, period.
Are you ready? The word we’ve been using is “Slay.” There is
no equivocation or ambiguity about the word, Slay. The word,
Slay denotes “final.” David didn’t go out on the battlefield to ask
the Goliath a few questions. He didn’t go out there to reason
with him. They didn’t shake hands. There was no arbitration.
There was ONLY the very firm decision to be “rid” of David and
Israel’s obstacle, Goliath.
34
You have got to totally cut ties with Your Giant. We’re not
compromising or playing patty-cake with your Giant. You’ve
done enough of that type of approach with this issue in the past.
With smoking as an example, you’ve toyed with the idea of
quitting. In fact, you may have tried to quit on several
occasions, but you continued to allow your Giant back into your
life. Not being decisive, firm and emphatic about ending the
relationship hasn’t worked for you, has it? No, it hasn’t. You
kept coming back to Your Giant. Frankly and realistically - Your
Giant must Die.
35
possibly appropriate choice. That would only be resorted to in
desperate, “last case”, highly unusual situation.
The point is that we’ve got to toughen our minds to Slay Our
Giants. You must now be bolder than you’ve ever been. Slaying
Giants can indeed pertain to a drastic solution where physical
defense is your only option. There are rare contingencies that
should be worked out in your mind beforehand, such as someone
breaking into your home, where you or your family are clearly
and physically threatened. God forbid that something like that
ever occurs, but circumstances that require Giant Slaying might
require you to act decisively and with force.
Inside Job
36
Since Your Giant is one of your own creations, you will be dealing
with and slaying your own perceptions, habits and thoughts.
You’ve got to toughen up. You’ve got to face reality. You’ve got
to decide that Your Giant must be eliminated, period, with no
exceptions. Allowing Your Giant to be part of your life can no
longer be an option. You must take charge, and you must plan
to GET HIM OUT OF YOUR LIFE once and for all. There is no
room for gray. This is only black and white here. Your Giant
must go. It is the most important action required for your move
into New Home.
Total Freedom
37
Web of Rationalization
Most People (MPs) will never get to the Giant Slaying phase due
to the complicated web of excuses they subconsciously spin prior
to any attempt to change. Whenever MPs (Most People) sense
the disgust and outrage that we just talked about, powerful
inhibitors that defy change begin to go to work. The “reasons I
can’t” mental process kicks in with very little effort.
Rationalization works subconsciously, meaning it takes place
automatically and without conscious analysis. Excuse making is
an internal, insidious, and powerfully prohibitive process – a fully
systematized mechanism that relies on default, erroneous
thought processing. Each excuse adds a strand to what I call the
Web of Rationalization that our subconscious builds and builds
over the years.
You are going to start becoming more aware of how your internal
dialogue and thought processes engage to stop your positive
forward motion. Again, this mechanism kicks in automatically at
the point the idea of “change” enters your thoughts. That
mechanism is very real and has quite effectively halted you from
attempting, advancing and accomplishing that which you know
you should be accomplishing.
38
MPs build their web of rationalization one strand at a time. Once
a single excuse appears in their brain, there is a very good
chance that it will become a default part of their thinking –
“default” meaning it is mindless mental processing. That single
excuse, regardless of its lack of substance or reality, becomes a
factor for all future thoughts unless it is consciously banished,
negated, and replaced by the more appropriate truthful thought.
39
One Erroneous Thought
I asked her if she had any resources with which to market and
advertise her business. She said, “Well, I had planned to sell my
house and use a portion of the equity from the sale to market
her business.” I asked her if she felt good about doing that, and
she gave me several reasons why selling her house was really
the best thing for her life at this point.
When I asked her why she didn’t go ahead and do that, she said,
“because I’m not sure whether my daughter is coming to visit me
for the summer or not. If she does, I would prefer that I have
the house. I’m waiting on her to decide.”
40
can take money out. Instead of allowing the daughter’s
indecision to stop all other aspects of her life, I told her that if
her daughter did decide to come, she would be fine visiting at
her (the mother’s) newly acquired apartment or rented house. If
the daughter didn’t decide to visit, the mother would have
wasted months in waiting for something that didn’t even happen!
The real problem is that the mother needs to make firm and
positive decisions for her (the mother’s) own good. Her daughter
would be fine either way – she is already independent, living on
her own. One bad thought, in this case, letting the daughter
control her life, worked its way strand by strand into the
perceived quandary of not being able to pay her bills, and to the
point that her entire life was clouded.
#4 Strand: Since I’m not selling the house, I don’t have money
to market
41
This is a great example of how one single erroneous thought can
affect virtually all other facets of a person’s life. We spoke later,
and she was so thankful that someone cared to point the
erroneous thinking out to her. She “got it,” and has already put
her house on the market.
Hidden Giants
42
This woman is no different from you or me. I’m guilty of basing
major components of my life on one single incorrect thought. We
all are susceptible to allowing one erroneous strand into our
thinking that leads to an entire sequence of subsequent, sticky
strands. Eventually, the strands form an entire Web of
Rationalization that effectively blocks our ability to move forward.
I can’t…
I would, BUT…
You want to know the truth? The phrase, “I can’t” is a total lie.
It is erroneous. It is wrong. Satan loves for you to believe this
oldest of lies. It is time to recognize your “I can’ts” and other
erroneous strands, and quit falling for these damaging
falsehoods.
I CAN is much more accurate. Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, if
you have faith and do not d-o-u-b-t, not only can you do what
was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain,
‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you
believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew
21:21
43
“Can” is of God. “Can’t” is of the enemy. Your Giant is praying
you believe in “can’t.” So, you have to decide, which is it going
to be? Who are you believing in, Christ or Your Giant?
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
44
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Procrastination
45
side of the fence. Sitting on a fence is a very awkward, tenuous
place to live.
46
early childhood can easily steer a person’s thought process and
decision making throughout their life. Debbie teaches seminars
on discovering and uncovering those events and putting closure
to them. Doing so will take stubborn strands out of your web,
which in turn will lead to the extraction of other strands that
developed as a result of the first one.
My question is, “do you believe that God is alive and working in
our lives or not?” The bottom line is – He is All Important, omni-
present, all-knowing, and totally in control. How can we learn
from people who miss and don’t even know about this crucial and
47
hugely important aspect of our lives? Your Giant would love for
you to think you can battle Him without God on your team.
48
This book may not be as well written as it could be had I hired a
ghost writer, but every word was written and edited by me on
my word processor. This is not said pridefully, I simply believe
that when you buy an author’s work, you ought to expect that
they wrote every word, or it tends to invalidate the content. For
good or bad, this book was written by the author’s name you see
on the cover.
Old Home
“20
Early in the morning David left the flock with a shepherd,
loaded up and set out…” 1 Samuel 17:20
When I talk about Old Home, I’m not only talking about the
physical structure you’re living in. I’m talking more about life as
you have experienced it in the past - life as you have known it
up until now. As much as you may like your circumstances, the
fact is, Old Home is not your God given destination. As I
mentioned before, we must recognize that the past has passed.
Old Home is your “past” residence. Now, it is time to move
forward toward your truthful destiny. As with David, it’s time to
“load up and set out…”
The fact is: that better place we are envisioning, New Home, very
certainly exists. It is real. Excellent, unexpected rewards await
your arrival. A refreshing world of new options and delights will
open up to you. You will be able to accomplish more, contribute
more, and become a better and more respected leader.
49
An incredible transition into leadership coupled with massive
rewards certainly occurred for David. David went from tending
sheep to leading a Nation as its king. His “coming out party” was
the decisive confrontation he had with a very large, frightening
obstacle – a Giant named Goliath. By facing the nine foot tall
warrior and slaying him, David established wealth, power and
leadership in a single moment. You, too, can make a significant
quantum leap by decisively Slaying Your Giant.
50
new, more respected image. You will become a leader of others
by virtue of triumphing over Your Giant.
51
17. Are you committed to moving forward? ____
Describe what New Home looks like to you.
A. ___________________________________________
B. ___________________________________________
C. ___________________________________________
D. ___________________________________________
E. ___________________________________________
You should be thankful for all the good in your life – who you are,
your past accomplishments, your past contributions, your family,
your friends, the “stuff” you currently have, your title, your
knowledge, your current residence, your salary or current
income. But you’ve got to move away from what has been your
comfort zone - away from inaction, indecision, and old habits,
and anything else that has been destructive. You must recognize
and begin extracting strand after strand in your Web of
Rationalizations. You will want to identify and discontinue
inhibiting thoughts, habits, words, and actions.
Anything that stands in the way of your move to New Home must
be carefully considered, with the idea that you may have to “let
go” of one or more of those aspects of your life. You must
52
consciously prepare to move “out” of Old Home, the detrimental
aspects of your current life, and not look back.
Dynamic Future
Abundance
Most people (MPs) won’t do what you are about to do, so there’s
virtually no competition from others. In fact, you’ll rarely have
to be concerned about competition. Seeing life in terms of
competition is a truly invalid “scarcity” concept. I see my so-
called competitors, as fellow sojourners who have similar
interests as me, which places us in a common niche. I am in no
way threatened by them. I constantly seek ways to work
together with my competitors, and enhance their businesses and
lives, rather than making them out to be enemies. I even
congratulate them genuinely when they succeed.
53
Abundance is the reality of the world, and yet Most People (MPs)
see the world as “barely getting by.” They reject the idea of new
Home. MPs are MPs by virtue of their complacency about,
acceptance of, and default thinking regarding Old Home. They
would never dare to venture out to Slay Their Giant. You cease
being an MP when you genuinely resolve to make your move into
New Home, where wealth and fulfillment abounds!
Risk
54
Nights and days? He’s got those covered. Waking and sleeping?
Yes, He’s in there, too. Being at peace in a hammock on a beach
or fully engaged in the battle of my life? He’s there.
55
shared with us at a recent Millionaire Mindset Conference a major
decision he made several years back. It was the decision to
close his highly profitable bank and vault construction company
in order to start a trailer company. The new company took six
full years to reach profitability, but when it did, it became very
profitable! When asked how he could just give up a successful
company based on the thought that the new idea would be a
better move, he simply said, “I had fully prayed about the
decision and knew it was the right move for my career and the
long-term, and I was willing to take the risk.”
Today with the wisdom of hindsight, we can see that Kelly did
indeed make the right move – one that made him a millionaire
many times over!
MPs avoid risk like the plague. I say that you’re not doing much
for God or yourself if you’re not willing to step out in faith and do
something bigger than you ever have before. AND that
something absolutely should have an element of risk to it. The
excitement, the exhilaration, the sense of being alive will never
be so real for you until you learn to act on belief and faith, rather
than calculating how to avoid risk. Your dreams and New Home
should be God-sized visions, one that can only happen with God’s
help and involvement – “through Him.”
Who are your heroes and heroines? Mine are all people who
have had tremendous courage; who have faced overwhelming
odds; and who have taken on risks that the common man never
would. All the great heroes/heroines of the Bible were faith-filled
and courageous risk-takers. Jesus Christ was and is the greatest
hero of all time. Incorrectly, He is often pictured as a meek and
mild, milk-toast pacifist. If you see Him that way, you need to
re-read the gospels to understand His true nature.
56
defiantly stood up to the ruling powers of the day, especially the
Pharisees. He openly criticized them for their dishonesty,
hypocrisy, and greed, not behind the veiled safety of an
anonymous statement or e-mail – no, he confronted them
directly to their faces. His statements on many occasions were
incendiary and insulting. I love it! Jesus dared to get in the
faces of those in authority to whom everyone else cowered-
down. He didn’t run from confrontation, he chose to be in the
fight, like his ancestor, David did.
Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would
love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not
come on my own; but He sent me. Why is my language not
clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say.
You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry
out your father’s desire. He was a murderer from the
beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in
him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is
a liar and the father of lies. Yet because I tell you the
truth, you do not believe me! Can any of you prove me
guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you
believe me? He who belongs to God hears what God says.
The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to
God.”
Those are fighting words! “You belong to your father, the devil…”
And this is only one of many examples of his incredible courage.
57
sinners - acts of insolence in the eyes of those in positions of
power. His acts and questionable associations with the poor and
social outcasts upset Jewish customs and norms. He turned over
the money-changer’s table in the Temple, and answered directly
when the Roman soldiers asked Him if He was Jesus, knowing
they were about to arrest Him. “I told you that I am He.” John 18:8
He knew that his disciples would be in for a dangerous future – in
the service of Jesus. In Luke 22:36 He told them to “sell your
cloak, and buy a sword.” That sword he told his disciples to
acquire was not for aesthetic purposes. We know now that all
but one of His original disciples died martyr deaths.
58
Don’t take up space on the planet, change the planet. Life must
have a significant element of adventure, and even danger, or it is
wasted. If there is not some element of danger and risk in your
life, I believe you are short-changing your very existence and the
purpose for which God gave you birth. You are not believing and
acting – “through Him.” Stand up for the courage of your
convictions. Speak up and be counted. Raise your hand when it
is time to volunteer to go out onto the battlefield. Don’t ignore
Your Giant – Slay Your Giant! Be strong like David and Jesus
Christ. Put on William Wallace’s blue war paint and go meet Your
Giant. If you will do that, then I am with you – let’s go!
I will follow you into that battle when you show the uncommon
courage that Champion risk-takers display. They choose to live
their lives based on principles and truth rather than what is
“easy.” And because of that, their lives take on meaning and
value. You take on greater purpose when you dare to stand up
and speak up – you’ll begin living the kind of courageous life that
God wants you to have. You’ve got one life – be used of God and
live that life to the full – “through Him!”
59
Discipline leads to Healthy Self Image which opens the door
to Leadership
Risk rewards – fear stops you dead in your tracks
Live life as a valiant warrior – “through Him”
Notes:
60
Chapter 3
Old Home is comfortable due to the fact that it is what you know.
You are familiar with your old way of life, but Old Home offers
only the lifestyle you have experienced in the past.
You will discover New Home only when you realize that Comfort
as a targeted goal will keep you firmly locked into Old Home.
61
Home often affords greater comfort than was ever available in
Old Home.
62
One of the great truths that Champions understand is this:
Comfort makes a lousy target. It is an entirely deceptive and
unfruitful purpose or goal - one of the more infamous…
Improper Targets
Champion or Chameleon?
63
types of people, knowing I could easily “fit in” to their crowd. I
could pick up and emulate their attitudes, language, and
sometimes even their accents in a brief period of time.
Now, don’t get the idea that moving to New Home is all about
being serious, constantly winning, and living life in a stress-filled,
pressure cooker. Nor should you surmise that being a leader, a
Champion, and a Christian is not fun. Relaxation time should
regularly be included in your schedule. I believe there is nothing
more fun than accomplishing great things; and that you can have
humor, relaxation and levity in the midst of doing your best!
However, when you do take a stand, when you do set the bar
higher and the pace a little quicker, you will find that you’ll be
doing anything but “fitting in”. You will stand out in the crowd
rather than blend into the crowd.
64
maintain my collegiate allegiance. But I also know that if I go to
a Texas A&M (Aggies) game and wear a maroon jersey, then I
will be pleasing my wife and her family who are all Aggies. So,
when I go to their game and don their beloved maroon colors,
that’s a time when fitting in to the - oh, let’s say, ‘fanatic’ Aggie
environment could be a positive!
65
When I was a younger man, if you asked me what I wanted to be
in life, I would have told you, “Oh, I just want to be happy.” My
Dad asked me that once when I was in my twenties and I
answered that way. I’m sure he was impressed…
But, Tim, I thought you were a business man. Isn’t money all
you business people think about? That actually is a common
myth about business people that is rarely even close to correct.
The answer is “rarely do I think about money as a target.” You’ll
see why that is true later.
We’ll find out what it is that makes a better target in life, and
that the by-product, and indeed the IRONY of setting our sites
on Proper Targets is often “comfort”, “happiness”, and, yes,
“money”! These are the by-products, but not the worthy
Targets.
66
We may be respected by MPs, but we’re not looking to be like
MPs or even hang out with MPs. No, we’re not better than them,
nor do we put them down. But traits, emotions, and the
language of those with whom we choose to associate tend to rub
off and influence all of us, including Champions. We are all
susceptible to the influence of people we spend time with.
Silly Myths
67
Your income is a result of your thinking, plain and simple; and it
can and should be much greater than what you have experienced
in the past. Stated another way, your thinking, perceptions and
mindset have placed you squarely in the income bracket you now
find yourself. There’s nothing magical about where you are now.
You’ve thought your way to that level.
The good news is that you can think your way to a much higher,
more productive level. If you reject that statement, then you
can look forward to maintaining Old Home income. But I
encourage you to think differently.
When you accept the statement that you can think your way to
higher income levels, then you will progressively think your way
into the reality of a greatly improved, New Home financial
condition. Improving your finances now means you can give
more. You can fill in the gaps experienced by your own family
and those around you more effectively and powerfully. You can
begin being a part of the solution, versus shrinking from those
solutions or situations that need funding. You can start
controlling finances, rather than finances controlling you.
68
Scared City
69
popular during that same time frame? Both were truly funny
characters, but unfortunately, they insidiously shaped an entire
generation’s concept of what we would term, “the wealthy” are
like. They shaped peoples’ perceptions about money and wealth
in a skewed, non-truthful distortion. Although everyone knew
this was comedy, both character I just referred to were greedy,
penny pinching, unprincipled ego-maniacs.
Well, enough about money for now. We’ll talk about that
important, yet often “touchy” subject a little bit more later. It is
a subject about which I’m passionate and one of the top ten
Giants on the list. My next book is called, “Ten Talent Man,” and
is based on Jesus’ parable of the talents found in Matthew 25. I
hope you will become a Ten Talent Man or Ten Talent Woman
and learn to be much more effective for God’s Kingdom!
MPs refuse to enter the battlefield. They are not about Slaying
Their Giant, nor are they serious about moving into New Home.
They don’t even consider the move as an option. All of those
differences mean Champions will never “fit in” with MPs. We can
love them, be compassionate with them, and be willing to offer
help to them when needed. We can also be role models and
examples for MPs. But can we “fit in” with most people? No, we
likely will never be able to fit in with MPs. Not me – not you; not
70
true Champions. No, “fitting in” rarely exists in the world of
Champions.
Language of Success
71
Paul says in the wonderful book of Philippians, “…brothers,
whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever
is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is
excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” 4:8 What
incredibly accurate and important advise for us to implement.
On the flip side of the coin, our words also can carry the power of
destruction as well. Entire lives can be damaged extensively with
the careless uttering of one negative sentence. A single negative
statement spoken to a young person can stay with them into
adulthood and diminish their self-image, which has so much to
do with the quality of their life and the choices they make.
So, be very aware of how and what you speak. Since speech is
preceded by thought, it is critical that you keep your thoughts
clean and pure. Let God’s Words come into your heart through
faithful Bible reading, and in turn Godly thoughts and words will
come out of your mouth. Stay away from anything that even
resembles negative words of destruction. MPs often speak words
that lead to negative consequences. Don’t fall victim to
carelessness regarding your choice of thoughts and words.
That’s why you want to associate with people who watch their
tongue and use their voice for powerful, positive language that
builds up rather than tears down. Champions watch their
language and choose to speak words of healing and
72
encouragement. They in turn flourish because those around
them are infused with power by their presence, words, and
actions.
www.TimDarnell.org.
73
Following Christ is the most empowering thing you will ever do,
although as has been mentioned, it carries the price-tag of not
fitting in and often feeling like an alien. If your goal is to “fit in”,
you’ll find that being a believer in Christ is mutually incompatible
with being like everybody else. You will be able to handle a little
alienation, especially when you begin finding new friends who are
also believers. I simply don’t view fitting in, nor do I recommend
fitting in, as a priority or goal in my life. We have a much more
important and higher calling than trying to be like, or be liked by,
everybody else.
Proper Target
Now, let’s identify the proper target. Doing what is right, not
what is expedient or comfortable will make you very different in
today’s society. Although you wouldn’t think so, focusing on
success oriented activities will alienate you from most people. In
fact you will often find yourself the target of mockery and
derision when you dedicate yourself to doing what is right and
leading others in the direction of success.
a. Easy
b. Fitting In
74
c. Comfort
d. Happiness
e. Personal Desires
f. Money
Shooting for the Proper Targets will allow you to do what is right.
And it will be your most rewarding course of action for now and
eternity. You will find true fulfillment when hitting the Proper
Targets.
75
Integrity
For Champions, assessing what the masses do, say, and think is
a good indicator of what NOT to do, say, and think. In virtually
every category, the masses reject Godly principles, which means
they are also not following success principles. No, they are on a
collision course with disaster. God’s Book, the Bible, is the
instruction manual that leads to the greatest success possible for
now and for eternity. Society’s example leads to mediocrity at
best.
Are the concepts of “not fitting in,” “pain,” and “discomfort” bad
things – bad ideas to avoid? Not to a Champion. Champions do
what it takes to Slay Their Giant, and they don’t disavow that
there is likely to be pain in the process. MPs avoid pain.
Champions don’t. Champions recognize that pain is often
followed by reward, and therefore not a condition to be avoided
in their life’s journey. In fact, pain is to be expected.
76
cannot take a new path until you change the default thinking that
“seemed” to be right to you during your tenure at Old Home. It’s
Old Home thinking that keeps MPs solidly locked into Old Home.
And it is your changed thinking that will propel you into New
Home. MPs avoid change. They avoid Giants. They avoid even
the mention of pain. They avoid new paths. Champions don’t.
The Giant that fills the chasm in between your old and new
residences is the one thing we must take care of – and you can
do it! I’m looking at you squarely in the eyes to tell you – “YOU
CAN DO IT!”
So, Tim, you’re telling me to think the opposite from how MPs
think? Are you kidding, Tim? No, not at all. You’ll find more
rewards in life by thinking and doing almost exactly the opposite
of what Most People are thinking and doing.
Those who are more mature in their faith, that is, those who
have learned the importance of living by faith, principled values,
and vision rather than taking their cues from the world, see that
the world has most things turned completely backward and
upside down. The world always turns what is right upside down.
We must be wise and discerning enough so that we are not
deceived by what the world is embracing.
Centuries ago the prophet Isaiah said, “Woe to those who call
evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for
darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. Woe to
those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own
sight.” Isaiah 5:20-21
That woe is a woe for MPs today, but as you can see by this
powerful scripture, the confusion has been going on for a long
time. Today, society’s confusion is compounded by the myths,
half-truths, and lies that are universally perpetuated as fact.
Erroneous thinking is extolled by the media every single day.
77
One of the funniest and most apparent examples of this
syndrome was the live television report from the Iraqi Minister of
Defense during the US invasion. He was confidently announcing
that Iraqi forces had soundly defeated US troops as the cameras
showed American troops and tanks pouring into the streets of
Baghdad virtually unimpeded. Saturday Night Live and late-night
talk-show hosts had a field day reenacting that obvious error.
78
decisions you will ever make and one of the most exciting
activities in which you will ever engage. You will receive
newfound energy and invigorating hope when you resolve to
move - to make the transition. It is an excitement that naturally
results with a solid resolve to move from Old Home to New
Home.
****************
79
Chapter 4
Ample Reason
However, you won’t take the steps necessary to Slay Your Giant
until you’ve reached what I call, Ample Reason - the point in
your life when you decide once and for all that it is time to move.
If you’ve reached the point where sufficient facts and feelings
add up to one choice – “I WILL Slay My Giant and I WILL move
into New Home”, then you reached the point of transition called,
“Ample Reason”.
When you do reach the point of Ample Reason, you will have
total clarity and conviction that the move to New Home is the
right, necessary, and mandatory thing to do.
80
We could identify each fact and feeling that prompts you to
change your environment and indeed, your life; but I’ve found
that exercise rarely to be necessary. The fact that you are
reading this book speaks loudly to your serious concern about
one or more aspects of your life that need to be dealt with now.
I know this: you will know the time has come to change when
your heart tells you it’s time. Trust your intuition – trust your
heart speaking to you. It is saying, “let’s do the right thing” –
let’s “Slay Our Giant and make the move to New Home!”
Ample Reason
Action
Disgust
+ Outrage
Inaction = Decision
The story of the old hound dog lying on the farmer’s front porch
comes to mind. The dog would let out a mournful wail once
every ten minutes or so and then fall back to sleep. After the
third time hearing the sorrowful moans, a visitor sitting on the
81
porch swing asked the farmer why “Old Blue” kept making that
woeful sound.
“No, she’s just lying on a nail, and she’s just too lazy to move.”
If Old Blue had more pain, she would get up and find a better
place. The pain had not reached the point of Ample Reason for
Old Blue. She would rather let out a mournful wail every once in
a while than expend the energy to find a new place to lie down.
MPs normally won’t move until the pain of Old Home is greater
than the perceived pain of Slaying Their Giant and moving to
New Home. They prefer to complain, and complain some more,
but never take the initiative to move.
I say, “take the time to envision what can be better about your
life and determine to make that new vision your reality.” Make
the move not only because you’ve experienced ample pain, but
because it is simply the right thing to do. You’re moving on to a
place where God, your Creator wants you to go. It is your Godly
destiny, the place of potential that you must not resist.
Like Old Blue, Old Home may be a bit uncomfortable for you, but
it may not be causing enough disgust or outrage to move. If you
are experiencing disgust and outrage in Old Home, then I am
happy for you. Disgust and outrage can be powerful, catalytic,
change-inducing emotions for you. You should be thankful for
these signals of distress and unrest.
82
bad, but we’re just not serious enough about moving to do
something about the non-acceptable condition of Old Home.
83
to move as well. Champions are accomplishment oriented and
sensitive to doing the right thing for their life, simply because it
is right. They are excited about making changes because they
live their life guided by their personal Godly mission and God-
directed purpose – a recognition that should be taking place in
your life as you read these words. I believe that you already
know instinctively and intrinsically what that mission and purpose
is.
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
84
Am I being judgmental? No, if you knew me and followed my
week, you would know that I regularly work with prisoners,
homosexuals, drug users, prostitutes, white-collar criminals,
skeptics – you name it – showing them the Word and love of
Christ through scripture. I am in no way their judge. I show
them support, hope, and encouragement. I am in no way better
than they are, and it is why I love and empathize with them. I
am a sinner like they are. But I am also very clear on what the
Word of God says in scripture, and I am committed to
enunciating that Word in public through my enterprise, products,
life, and teaching.
Take an assessment of your life and if you’re not where you want
to be, instead of just moaning, move off your nail. Move out of
Old Home. New Home is where you belong!
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
“d-o-u-b-t”
85
destructive thing that will strip a Champion of his/her power. It
has caused more people to stay in Old Home than any other
concept. And it may be the very Giant that you’ll fight first.
86
and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know
that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will
know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves;
for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give all of you into
our hands.” 1 Samuel 17: 45-47
Get rid of d-o-u-b-t once and for all. Quit giving in to this
insidious device of destruction. D-o-u-b-t is no good. As we
embark on a path where choices and decisions are based on what
is right all the time, that word and thought (d-o-u-b-t) is one
concept we simply don’t need. We are going to consciously and
decisively leave d-o-u-b-t back at Old Home. Say good-bye to d-
o-u-b-t. GOOD RIDDANCE!
87
when you are certain that your decisions are based on wisdom.
You can lead yourself more resolutely and with much greater
confidence when your choices are built on the rock of Jesus
Christ. He is “the way, the truth, and the life,” John 14:6 and it is
through and with Him that you will find wisdom – and much,
much more.
As you move into New Home, you’ll realize that what you are
doing is creating a new environment. Note that word -
“creating”. To be optimally involved in the creation process, you
must team up with the Creator Himself.
What if you had the choice for powering all your future needs
with a rusty 9-volt battery, or plugging directly into the Hoover
Dam? Obviously, there is no comparison between a rusty, 9-volt
battery and the Hoover Dam – just as there is no comparison
between the Hoover Dam and God’s power. God’s power makes
88
the Hoover Dam look totally insignificant – and it is available to
you every day.
But where is wisdom found, how can you receive it, and what
relationship does wisdom have with d-o-u-b-t?
Sound old fashioned? If you even thought that for a second, that
thought is a false strand in your Web of Rationalization. The
Bible is anything but old fashioned. This one, single book is
incredibly up to date – even futuristic (eternal) and has
everything to do with your ability to acquire wisdom and what
your New Home will look like. The Bible is the living word of God
that speaks to us with the perfect words for what we are facing
right now – every single time you pick it up. And it is exactly the
place where wisdom can be found.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives
generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to
him. 6But he must believe and not doubt, because he who
doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the
wind.” James 1:5-6
89
ask for it. What we’re talking about here is going to God in
prayer and asking for wisdom. We’re talking about reading the
Word of God (the Bible) on a regular, disciplined basis. When
you humbly do these things, God will speak to you and will reveal
to you all the wisdom you need for your current situations and
your journey to New Home. He will show you how to Slay Your
Giant when you ask Him how to Slay Your Giant. And He will
fight the battle with and for you!
As you can see from this powerful scripture in James (I have that
one memorized and I recommend you do, too), d-o-u-b-t has
absolutely no place in the journey to which you are committing.
Wisdom is yours for the taking in ABUNDANCE, but she (wisdom)
refuses to share the stage with d-o-u-b-t. The two terms,
wisdom and d-o-u-b-t are mutually incompatible. God will not
bless a d-o-u-b-t-e-r with wisdom. James goes on to warn the
d-o-u-b-t-e-r:
“That man should not think he will receive anything from the
Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.”
James 7-8
90
Notice the entire army of Israel was paralyzed by the intimidating
threats of the Giant. They were dismayed as they ‘cowered’ in
fear. Who ‘cowers’ in fear? “Cowards” cower in fear.
The last thing on any of the Israeli soldiers’ mind was, “I’ll face
the giant. I’ll be the one to fight Goliath.” Why not? Because
they couldn’t figure out “HOW” to Slay the Giant!
The Israelite soldiers could only see the fight in human terms –
making quick, shallow calculations based on past experience.
They couldn’t imagine that they could beat Goliath because,
again, they were only thinking in human terms. They saw only
ominous circumstances. It never occurred to them that Goliath
could be beaten. The truth is: their fear-filled and negative
predictions were correct. MPs resort to human calculations - not
God’s equation, the latter being: God’s will infusing man’s
beliefs and actions = Victory!
91
I. Be prepared to leave Old Home – in preparation for the
battle, you must not cling to your “things” or the comfort
to which you’ve grown accustomed
Notes:
92
Chapter 5
New Eyes
The fact is: if you haven’t conquered your Giant, you have been
serving your Giant. You may have never thought there was any
other way to live your life other than being in submission to Your
Giant, but there is a better way. It’s time you toughen your
stance on Your Giant. It’s time your Giant is eradicated. You
aren’t going to negotiate or compromise your way out of the fight
and finality of KILLING YOUR GIANT!
93
WRONG!
You must begin seeing yourself through God’s eyes. You must
see yourself as a person of much greater capacity than your past
or current roles have indicated. You are a Champion - a Giant
Slayer! And the way you are going to do that is by first
recognizing that God is in total control. Indeed, in Christ you are
not only a Champion, scripture tells us we are “more than
conquerors.” Romans 8:37
Read Romans 8:28-39 – pick up your Bible and take the time to
reflect on this powerful scripture.
“35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble
or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or
94
sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day
long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in
all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who
loved us.”
What does this mean for your life? Everything, including victory
over the Giant you are about to Slay. Rewards are great when
you are a Conqueror. Rewards are even greater when you are
more than a conqueror!
Remember the mother who didn’t want to hear about the subject
of “d-o-u-b-t?” She didn’t like other people talking about it, but
we found out rather quickly that d-o-u-b-t was the fundamental
Giant in her life! Her bringing up the subject on several
95
occasions was the tip-off. She was avoiding the very subject that
needed attack.
There are many doors that lead to New Home. If you sense that
you have trepidation about opening one of those doors, it may be
that that door is the very door you need to open.
Public Speaking
It was a fear that never went away and actually directed many
aspects of his adult life. He even chose his college major,
Mechanical Engineering, because it was one of the few majors
that didn’t require speech class. In his senior year and to his
horror, the Mechanical Engineering Department changed the
requirements to include a one-hour speech class. He was
absolutely panicked by the new development and even
contemplated dropping out of school altogether. Fortunately, he
discovered that Electrical Engineering had not yet adopted the
speech requirement policy, and so my buddy, in the last
semester of his senior year changed his major to Electrical
Engineering – all as a result of his life-long fear of getting up in
front of people and speaking!
96
his anxiety. Today he speaks effortlessly and eloquently in front
of large crowds.
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Fear is extremely good and useful for life in one other context.
In fact, it is the one instance where fear is not only good, but
also absolutely necessary. And that is…
The proper fear of God replaces and negates all other fears.
When we recognize God's awesome power we take on a healthy
fear for Him, an all-encompassing respect that properly
prioritizes all aspects of our life. It is the fear of God that allows
us to have full confidence to fight and Slay Our Giant! That fear
is a very healthy perspective and lifestyle, not only empowering
97
us, but also providing us inner peace and serenity.
98
I'll say it again, "when you fear God, there is no need to fear
anything else." That's right, I said "anything" else.
Fears Eliminated
It's time to bow down at the altar of Almighty God, rather than
bowing down at the altar of fear. By bowing down to the
authority and sovereignty of God, you allow your Champion to
rise up and fully triumph!
Now that we see the battle through the eyes of God, the eyes of
victory, we can relinquish the fear of doing battle. Let’s go!
99
****************
The eyes of Old Home must be exchanged for the sight and
vision of Godly eyes
Fear is not necessary. Exchange fear for confidence in the
Creator of the Universe, not the created things made by
God
The only healthy fear is the healthy fear of God Almighty
Your Giant is no match for God
Notes:
100
Chapter 6
The Battlefield
“The Philistines occupied one hill and the Israelites another, with
the valley between them.” 1 Samuel 17:3
The prophet, Joel in Joel 3:14b, calls the battlefield the “valley
of decision”. The battlefield is where a decision is rendered. As
with a boxing ring where two competitors meet and a decision
takes place as to whom the victor will be, the battlefield is the
venue where life-changing decisions can take place.
101
look at the fight as the way to bring about that decision, that
resolution. Until resolution is reached in a person’s life, they
bounce around in a nebulous world of indecision. If you’ve ever
avoided making a choice, you know that the land of indecision is
a chaotic, stressful, and unproductive place to be.
Can you relate to all of this talk using “battle”, “fighting”, and
“slaying” imagery? I am sure you know what I’m talking about
or you wouldn’t have read this far. How often have we found
ourselves in a low place, and we knew we had to change. We
knew we had to escape that low place. Many of us will never
fight our Giant or strive for higher ground until we find ourselves
in that low, oftentimes desperate place.
102
People whose Giant has been alcohol or drugs talk about their
low point, where they were in a valley so low that they were
looking at death from their addiction, suicide, or Slaying Their
Giant. Unfortunately, the first two options have claimed way too
many lives. The best choice is to deal with the Giant.
In the case of alcohol and drugs, as I’ve stated already, you must
not negotiate with these Giants. You’ve got to totally kill this
breed – so that you are resolutely certain they will never live
again. They took control of your life, literally all but ruining your
life. You served Your Giant, but now he MUST be terminated for
good. That Slaying starts with a resolute decision that is
accompanied by supernatural power. These Giants, as with most
of our Giants, can and will fall, but only with God’s intervention.
This entire book, indeed every page must be scrutinized for the
Giant Slaying tips that will be extremely important in gaining the
victory.
Prayer
103
Linda makes it clear that prayer has been their single most
important weapon – their weapon of choice. I could not agree
more. In my experience, building a business is a matter of faith
and belief. Owning a business requires constant Giant Slaying,
one after another on a consistent basis, and requires all the
resources we can muster. God is the provider of all our strength
and all our wisdom. To involve Him, to reach Him, we simply
speak and even ‘cry out’ to Him in our prayers. And when we do,
we must then trust Him explicitly without any trace of d-o-u-b-t
whatsoever - and the battle will be won!
104
Similarly reported, the greatest breakthroughs and
advancements that had occurred in our Millionaire Mentors’
business lives were all the result of fervent prayer prior to the
manifestation of the incredible miracles they all have witnessed.
There is unquestionably a direct correlation between prayer and
success – lack of prayer and failure. It was evident that prayer
has been and is the greatest weapon for all of our Millionaire
Mentors.
105
Personal Responsibility and Life-tasks expand in dimension
as our trust in God deepens and as we place our focus and
emphasis on Him solely, rather than focusing on “I – me”
At the same time, you won’t see me taking my cues from their
actions, thoughts or words. I simply want to encourage them. If
I do take any cues from MPs, it’s to see what they do or say,
which will often lead me to consider the exact opposite choice.
My Personal Giant
106
not from me, but rather totally and solely from God. I finally
came to the conclusion that the fight was not about me, and that
the size of my opponent, the Giant, simply did not matter. I
realized that when I am aligned with God’s Word, the outcome of
the battle is in God’s hands, not mine.
I finally figured out that the exact directions on how to fight the
battle were available through the wisdom given me by the Holy
Spirit. I may be slow, but I finally figured out that details of
what New Home looked like are details provided by God. I finally
figured out that complete directions to New Home are always
provided by Him when seeking His direction for my life. And I
also finally figured out that the timing of the fight and the move
into New Home was all on God’s time clock, not mine.
I finally woke up to the fact that if “it” was all God’s, then the
best thing I could do was get out of the way and let God make all
the decisions. What I am saying is, “I turned it all over to Him”.
It is all rightfully His anyway. It was at this point that I
107
discovered Tim Darnell’s true problem - not relinquishing to God
His proper position in my life.
That’s right. I’ll say it again: I finally figured out that I, and
my not allowing God to fully take control of my life, was
my own Giant. The “Tim Darnell of the past” mistake is very
likely your Giant as well. Regardless of what you consider Your
Giant to be, this is your answer, the very powerful Giant Slaying
solution:
Turn Your Battle Over to God
and Step Onto the Battlefield To Win
I would never step out onto the battlefield without asking for and
being armed with Godly wisdom. I would never go into the fight
without prayer and being fully immersed in God’s word. And
when I do prepare and enter the battle properly, I have
absolutely no fear or worry about the outcome. I know, without
a moment’s hesitancy that my victory, God’s victory, is
imminent, and that there is absolutely no risk.
108
But God wants us to trust in Him. Numbers and analysis are
man-made devices that pale in comparison to God’s awesome
power. Not only that, counting and measuring can be the most
deceiving devices we can implement, yet we depend on these
way too often, when we should rely and depend on God.
Imagine thinking that our counting and measuring is more
accurate that God’s power, wisdom and direction! This is where
we can really go wrong. Thinking we can “out-figure” God is
absurd.
Even King David fell into the “Counting and Analysis Trap” years
AFTER his famous Giant Slaying of Goliath and countless other
battlefield victories and heroics. Toward the end of his life, David
went to his trusted commander, Joab, and commanded him to
“enroll the fighting men, so that I may know how many there
are.” 2 Samuel 24:2b
109
Slay Your Giant. It is the only way to know what New Home
looks like and the only way to know how to get there.
David Slew His Giant not by his own might or savvy. God won
the battle for David. “David said to the Philistine, “You come
against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against
you in the name of the Lord Almighty…” 1 Samuel 17:45
Read 2 Samuel chapter 24. How does this apply to your life?
What are you “counting and calculating”, and then even worse,
“depending upon,” other than God? Are you relying on the
“number” of dollars you have coming in, or the size of your
investment portfolio more so than God? If so, you need to turn
your trust over to Him and not some “accounting” you believe
will save you. That is offensive to God and unproductive relative
to relying totally on Him for your strength and power.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and
lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways
acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.”
*****************
110
The battlefield is an excellent place to be – it is where
decisions are made and quandaries solved
Your biggest Giant is YOU thinking you are god and not
giving the true God supreme command of your life
Battles may occur in the valley, a low place in your life –
not to fear, with God you will triumph
Counting your physical and financial assets is not basis for
Slaying Your Giant – total and absolute trust in God is the
basis for your strength and victory
Notes:
111
Chapter 7
The Battle
112
Treasure your successes and remember them often, but don’t get
stuck in the past. You have more victories ahead of you.
Remember, we are always moving into New Home and Giants will
inevitably raise their monstrous heads to defy our positive
decisions and resolve.
As you picture your Giant, you too can and should say the same
sentence – “Let no one lose heart on account of (insert Your
Giant’s name), your servant will go and fight him.”
113
Without going into great detail, I find it truly predictable that I
would face a formidable Giant the moment I began writing a
book called, “Slay Your Giant”. That had to happen, would you
not agree?
And so for me, I say, “Let no one lose heart on account of this
‘agency’, your servant will go and fight them.” I have decisively
entered the battlefield. I have calmly and resolutely committed
to the fight. And I am completely confident of the victory, with
God as my guide, companion and fellow warrior. Insert Your
Giant’s name in this phrase and let it be your firm conviction to
prevail, as well.
114
1
in these,’ he said to Saul, ‘because I am not used to them.’”
Samuel 17:39b
– a wise choice.
God has given you all the weaponry you need. Weapons come in
a variety of forms. One of those weapons may be professional
allies, people who aid and support you in the battle. I personally
employ and contract many people who are better at certain,
necessary aspects of my business than I am. Certainly my
attorneys are trusted and capable allies as I fight business
issues. My data people are more adept at keeping and finding
statistics and documents than I could ever be. My financial
people understand issues that I don’t even recognize as issues!
And my website expert keeps me from having to constantly learn
new, involved web technology. And the list goes on.
I also have people all over the world that pray for me on a
regular basis – intercessory prayers are weapons in my arsenal
for which I am so very thankful, and for which I wouldn’t trade
any amount of money. One of your weapons that you now have
is my daily prayer for you and each reader of this book. You
have my word on the consistency of that important and effective
commitment to you, my friend. Yes, “The prayer of a righteous
man is powerful and effective”. James 5:16b Am I a righteous man?
Woefully inept in human terms, but optimally empowered
through the Holy Spirit!
Father, I pray for the person reading these words right now
– that you may strengthen him or her and give them the
very weapons that will Slay Their Giant! I thank you in
advance for the new insight that you are providing the
reader now and in your timing. In the name of Jesus I
pray, Amen.
115
Your weapon may be well-thought-out, careful wording as you
Slay Your Giant with powerful thoughts and verbiage. Kindness
and caring can win many a fight - “pre-battle”, thereby not
inflicting potential scarring from direct conflict. The way in which
you phrase your verbiage to others is a powerful, positive
weapon. Your inflections and tone of voice are powerful weapons
when used correctly. Gentleness and kindness are two ways of
dealing with people that have solved many a conflict before it got
out of hand.
David was amply prepared with five stones. If the first shot
didn’t find its mark, he would have four more chances. As this
wonderful story unfolds, we see that, with God’s help, he only
needed one stone.
116
Preparation
117
2. Bible Study brings out God’s thoughts and God speaking
to you with words that will be highly impactful and ‘dead
on target’ for your battle. I currently read the Bible every
morning, and in addition I lead or attend four different
Bible studies per week. Quite often the very answer I’m
needing for a particular dilemma will jump out at me
during the discussion or the prayer-time afterward. This is
nothing less than the voice of God providing me with
perfect directions and wisdom. If you are not currently
reading the Bible daily, I strongly suggest you start your
day being fed from the living Word of God. If you are not
in at least one Bible study with a good teacher, I strongly
suggest you join one immediately.
118
thought and accomplishment to the encouragement I
received in that one little book.
NEM Giant
119
check-book. Whenever I mention that fact in public speeches, I
receive near unanimous agreement each time.
If you want to be a great singer, you’ve got to think and act like
a great singer. You’ve got to rehearse and learn music like great
singers do. If you want to be a great coach, you need to study
the lives of great coaches. You’ve got to learn their mindset and
their language.
120
5. Exercise – One of the greatest improvements you can
make in your overall life is to exercise. Regular exercise
affects your attitude, which in turn ties in to all aspects of
your life! When you feel sluggish and tired, you’re not
going to be in much shape mentally, emotionally, or
physically to undertake the battle. I recommend walking if
you haven’t been exercising for a while. Walking can lead
to faster-paced and longer distance walking, jogging, and
eventually running. Even if you never get to the jogging or
running stage, walking is excellent for your overall well-
being.
121
Jack recognizes that he is no more than just a regular guy,
but he also knows that through Christ he can do anything –
he believes in being “more than a conqueror.” I know in
my heart of hearts that Christ is proud of productive, men
and women of excellence, the Jack Weinzierl’s of the world.
122
be healthy for your clients. Eliminating colas (whether diet
or regular) and replacing them with a healthy substitute will
gradually, but certainly, help you shed pounds and perhaps
even feel more coherent, less foggy.
In this case, you should find all the information you can
about colas from diet and nutrition experts. If chips are the
issue, you don’t have to be too deep into nutrition to
understand the needless calories that habitual snacking can
add, and add, and add.
You may say, Tim, you are not an expert on diet and
weight-loss. You may be right, but I care very much about
health, diet and nutrition. I may be more of an example
than an expert. I have a 32 inch waist, the same waist size
I had as a freshman in college. I run, lift weights, and golf
regularly. I avoid sugars and deserts and drink a single
cola a month, if any. If I sense that I’m getting a little
pudgy, I’ll cut back on food consumption for a few days and
step up the exercise. I’ve never allowed my weight to get
out of control. It’s an ongoing, watchful process, not a
“one-time” dramatic program to correct days, months, and
years of bad choices.
To Eat
The word, diet, means “to eat”. Again, our society has
another concept upside down. Most people think “diet”
123
means to “not” eat. What I’ve done personally, and
encourage my audiences to do, is to recognize that we are
meant to eat regularly and not starve ourselves in an
attempt to get the weight off. It simply doesn’t work.
Eating regularly in reasonable, satisfying quantities is the
true meaning of “to diet”.
It’s really quite simple. Don’t quit eating. Don’t opt for
another fad diet. Don’t starve yourself. Just make good
choices when you eat. Eat healthy foods in non-excessive
helpings. Choose foods that don’t add needless fat. It’s
really simple and intuitive – skip deserts, avoid colas, don’t
eat pastries (doughnuts) and cakes. I also don’t sit around
snacking on chips or candy. It’s in sensible dieting (eating)
that we Slay the Weight Giant. It’s in eating nutritional
foods in moderation for the rest of our lives – what we do
eat, that allows us to drop excess weight and experience
overall health.
Beautiful Foods
I’ve noticed that the foods that are best for us are often
visually beautiful. God gives us simple clues as to what we
should eat. Colorful fruits and beautiful vegetables are much
better for us than meats (bloody and brown). I’m not saying
you need to go “vegan” (full vegetarian), although many of
you could turn the corner more rapidly with this approach.
But colorful foods are more likely to be rich in nutrients and
anti-oxidants, substances that support your immune system,
sound organ function, and your overall sense of well being.
Eat Breakfast
I start the day with fruit for breakfast. And by the way, you
should eat breakfast. I have not seen a dietary report yet
that won’t tell you to eat breakfast. That meal helps
124
increase your metabolism. The right breakfast helps your
alertness and ability to focus. Fruits are also digested much
more easily than bacon, sausage, or breads. Energy that is
required to digest sausage or bacon can be used rather for
thinking and muscular activity. Although I love the taste, I
consciously avoid ingesting meats like bacon and sausage in
the morning.
125
Don’t look for the quick fix. Look for a diet that you can live
with for a lifetime. Look for healthy ways of living your life,
not gimmicks, not something you’ll only do for a brief
season, or in a “one-time shot”. Those approaches cure
nothing, and usually put you further back than you were
when you started.
126
you will be able to draw upon at just the right moment,
especially in the thick of battle.
127
(approximately 15 – 20 minutes a day). You can read at a much
quicker clip, or more slowly, but regardless of the time frame,
your rewards will be immense.
Reading the Bible from front to back affords even greater insight
into God’s word than just picking out a single book and reading
it. Although any Bible reading is a great thing to do, you’ll
experience even greater insight into who God is; who the
Prophets are and what their role in the overall scope of history
has been; the amazing significance of who Jesus is and what His
willingness to die on a cross and rise again accomplished here;
who the Holy Spirit is; and a host of other powerful “gleanings”
to which you were not fully privy in the past.
128
with it! I’ll support you 100 percent and pray for you on an
ongoing basis!
Land Mines
129
air in the muddy bog with a dropped jaw and surprised
expression on your face, going “what was that all about?” One
minute, everything is fine. The next, your life is turned upside
down and you have a new enemy you never knew existed.
David was not ignorant. Even though David was young, he had
many experiences that prepared him for the battlefield. God will
fight our battles with us and, although He could win even without
our developed skills, He doesn’t need an ignorant, or unprepared
Champion representing Him on the battlefield. Indeed our
experiences and purposeful, daily preparation allow us to be
eligible and more prepared to participate in the battle - to fight,
and be a much more effective Champion on the battlefield!
Can you detect the jealousy in Eliab’s voice? When you get
ready to do battle – when you pass the point of Ample Reason
and others find out you are thinking about Slaying Your Giant,
everybody around you will be offering advice – mostly telling you
not to do what you are thinking about doing. If you are new to
Slaying Giants, you will be tempted to listen to the non-qualified
roars of advice from the maddening crowd. But think about it, if
those offering the advice were so knowledgeable, why are they
not on the battlefield accomplishing the rewarding thing you are
accomplishing?
130
Giant and move ever closer to New Home, you will have a
multitude of people, some who genuinely care about you, tell you
how stupid you are for even thinking you qualify to Slay Your
Giant. They will tell you that New Home is a ridiculous notion – a
figment of your naïve optimism. Loved ones (I’m talking close
family members) will lovingly tell you that you would be better
off not starting that new business, or not attempting an endeavor
that you truly feel and know is God’s calling in your life.
Qualified Voices
131
Unsolicited advice is pervasive, and will lead you down anything
but the right path. If you want to be a millionaire, then listen to
millionaires who have your best interest in mind. If you want to
be a concert pianist, listen to accomplished pianists and those
who believe in you and your specific dream. If you want to lose
weight and get in better shape, listen to someone who is an
expert in nutrition, bariatrics, and body toning – and who is
personally in great physical shape. Find out what these experts
know about the particular Giants that are likely to be lurking
between you and New Home.
Read this book once and then I encourage you to read it again.
Read other powerful books that can change your thinking and
thereby change your life! I recommend “The Purpose Driven
Life” by Rick Warren; “Your Best Life Now” by Joel Osteen; “The
Wonderful Spirit Filled Life” by Charles Stanley, and one I just
read called, “Wild at Heart” by John Eldredge. Each of these
brilliant authors will provide an intellectual and spiritual workout
for your mind and will that will help your Giant Slaying mindset
immensely.
There are many others who can help you ‘figure it out’. Be a
student who soaks in goodness, truth and inspiration through
reading. In order to compete with the barrage of ridiculous and
truly satanic voices that come at us from all directions every
single day, we must consciously and proactively pour “goodness”
into our lives!
132
upcoming battle with your own intellect and heart. That
‘still small voice’ is telling you the answers you need to
hear.
Notes:
133
Chapter 8
MPs think this way. They see their obstacles and problems as
bigger than they are, and without thinking the solution through,
they will resign themselves to not being able to handle the
problem. No, your problem, Your Giant can be defeated.
I have heard about the proverbial 80/20 rule all my life. Twenty
percent of the people produce 80 percent of the results. I
believe the mathematical calculation of that folk-lore is incorrect.
It’s actually more like 83.4/16.6. “OK, Darnell, where did you
get that?” My answer? It’s Biblical!
When Moses sent spies into the Promised Land to scout it out
and come back with a report, only two in twelve were able to see
the conquest as achievable. Ten spies said, “We went into the
land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey!
Here is its fruit. But, the people who live there are powerful, and
the cities are fortified and very large. We even saw descendents
of Anak there.” Numbers 13:27-28
134
Never mind that this was God’s “Promised” Land. We’re talking
God’s Promised Land. The Israelites rejected their reward, their
promise, their destiny because they heard a report
(rumor/opinions) that Anakites were there. Guess who the
descendents of Anakites were – that’s right, supposed giants!
Only two of the spies, Caleb and Joshua, perceived the situation
correctly. Rather than relying on the fear-filled calculations that
non-faithful, rebellious men always come up with, Caleb and
Joshua rightly relied on God’s promise. God’s promises, plans
and provision are not to be taken lightly, nor are they to be
rejected or compromised. God’s promises will be fulfilled – but
we have to be willing to take Him up on His promises! We have
to be willing to receive. And we have to be willing to fight!
God was very angry that ten out of twelve (83.4%) failed to
believe in His Promise to Israel. Israel paid the price for thinking
this way, by not being allowed to enter the Promised Land for
forty more years. Can you see why it is so costly and non-
rewarding to listen to negative reports?
135
issue a fear-filled, negative report. Listen, it’s time to wake up to
the fact that the majority of people, MPs, are dead wrong. You
can’t listen to their fear. You must follow the voice and direction
of God Almighty. He will lead you all the way!
God will show you the way. He will carry you like a father carries
his son! You will have God showing up in the elements – a Fire
by Night and a Cloud by Day – to prepare the battlefield and
overcome the giants of the land. Anakites, Shanakites –
whatever kind of “ites,” your God will take them down. Your
Giants are no match for the team of You and God! Beware, you
Giants of the land. You are defeated before the battle begins.
David didn’t give heed to the fact that Goliath was grotesquely
huge and intimidating; because he was aware that size was not
136
the issue. MPs tend to delegate even greater credence to their
fears, giving their opponents an inappropriate advantage in, of all
places, their own mind! What a crazy thing to do to yourself,
allowing fear based perceptions to occupy the very mind you
must use to beat the opponent. Allowing fear and dooms-day
into your life in any way is an extremely bad choice.
Your Giant is smaller than you think he is. Your Giant is more
vulnerable than you think he is. Your Giant can and will fall,
more readily than you think he will. He is capable of being
beaten, and you are the one who will beat him.
For example, let’s say that you have struggled with finances all
your life. Remember the NEM (Not Enough Money) Giant. You
may never seem to have enough money, especially at the end of
the month. Because of your “scarcity” mindset, your shopping
and buying habits have always been determined by one factor
more than others: price – specifically the cheapest price!
137
really want from the item description found in the left-hand
column. You’ve always approached purchase decisions as, “well,
we just can’t afford the pricier items”, even though you are
aware that they have more long term value and would often be
more enjoyable and appropriate for your life.
138
Understanding these seemingly minor, yet functionally HUGE
concepts will enable you to begin eliminating the “Not Enough
Money” Giant.
Paying the price and fighting the battle are closely related to
each other. Learn to expect to pay the price; and PREFER to pay
the price. Learn to expect and prefer to fight the battle.
Although society teaches just the opposite, Champions know that
there is reward in doing what most people won’t do.
MPs have the perception that they will never be able to do the
things millionaires do. The word “never” is quintessential “Old
Home” vocabulary. They don’t think of themselves in terms of
wealth, but rather in terms of need, lack, and scarcity. As long
as they have that perception, they will be right. They will have
limited their finances and virtually everything about their life,
especially as regards “contributing” back to God’s Kingdom.
New Home thinking by Champions goes more like, “I can and will
conquer the “NEM” Giant and start being more productive. I can
and will work smarter rather than giving in to the lie that harder
work is the only way to make more money.
You will begin to discover how you can add substantive value into
peoples’ lives, and then how to duplicate that value to hundreds,
thousands, and possibly even millions of people – genuine value
139
for which the masses will gladly pay. That productivity will give
your more choices and give your family more solid financial
footing. When you begin establishing excellence in your
finances, you will see more clearly how to contribute more to
your church, synagogue, and/or special ministries, charities and
causes that are in need of funding!
While I empathize with any trial you are going through, you
MUST NOT see your life through the “poor, pitiful me” lens.
140
Champions don’t play the blame game, regardless of their
circumstances. Your problems, your Giants may seem huge, but
you can overcome them. Your GIANTS are not in charge of your
life! YOU are in charge of your life.
The very second that unexpected things happen in your life is the
very time for you to courageously make solid decisions that will
allow you to fight your way out. Let’s say that your spouse
decided to leave you. That would certainly qualify as a Giant – a
traumatic, highly unfortunate event. If such an event occurs,
you’re going to have to make the best of the situation and not let
circumstances defeat you. You can bemoan the fact and have a
pity party; and you certainly should experience the natural grief
and pain of that situation. But even amidst the tears and hurt,
you must come out strong, come out fighting, to deal effectively
with the situation you find yourself in. Remember, Giants often
come suddenly and unexpectedly, and whether it is “fair” or not,
you are called to rally your emotions and resources to make the
best of whatever situation in which you find yourself.
141
Plan A is past history; and whether you think you’ve been treated
fairly or not, Plan A is not the plan you can now implement. God
is the God of Plan B and will help you regroup and reorganize.
Plan B will lead you to New Home! Another ironic aspect of how
your story is going to unfold is that quite often Plan B will likely
get you to New Home more efficiently than Plan A ever could!
Plan B will actually deliver as many or more rewards than Plan A
ever could.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you
will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.
Is not life more important than food, and the body more
important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they
do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your
heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more
valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a
single hour to his life?” Matthew 6:25-27
142
Focus on Gratitude
MAJOR POINT The NEM Giant most often appears not due to
the calamity that occurred. The NEM Giant appears due to your
acceptance of and settling for an income amount that is simply
not enough.
143
business. You should develop a mindset that is receptive to
aligning with new, more rewarding realities of income and
opportunity. Pray for the right situation to emerge, thanking God
in advance for His answer to His child’s (your) situation.
Thinking Abundance
The fact of the matter is, you can begin “thinking your
way” to much more substantial monthly incomes, just as
assuredly as you have successfully thought your way to
your current amount. People who live in your same town and
state in which you are now living make twice, three times, ten
times, one hundred times the amount you make and more, due
to a few small modifications in the way they think relative to how
you think.
144
income amount to pay off all your debt and make some of those
long overdue purchases of items, services or repairs you’ve
needed for some time. You will begin putting money away for
retirement and/or a college education for the kids in no time. You
will also start ‘blessing’ a whole lot of people who are in dire need
right now, like the woman whose husband left her, or the victims
of a natural disaster.
By the way, a single verse from the Bible referring to money and
evil in the same phrase is more commonly misquoted than not.
The scripture says, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of
evil”. 1 Timothy 6:10
145
and use money, not the other way around. Remember our
discussion about “Improper Targets?” Money is indeed an
Improper Target. You should never chase money. But you
should also not run away from or avoid money! No, run toward
fulfilling your God-given purpose and work to fulfill your mission
here on earth. Money is simply an inanimate object, and yes, it
certainly can be used for evil. But it can also be used powerfully
for good and Godly purposes. I consider money to be God’s
wonderful gift and an important resource for building His
Kingdom on earth - not something to be feared or avoided.
When we treat our money with the full knowledge that ALL of it is
God’s money and all we are doing is “handling” it, then we
begin to take on the proper perspective of this thing called
“money”. The test is whether we will use it for our own greed
and desires; or rather, use it appropriately for building God’s
Kingdom. Will we ‘hoard’ it and ‘clench’ it, or will we amplify it
for His purposes? When you choose the latter, God will allow you
to handle and be responsible with greater amounts of money.
I say, let’s talk about it a whole lot more and let’s get excited
about being more productive and resourceful with our finances.
Let’s get our heads on straight about money by Slaying the NEM
Giant once and for all, and use our new-found resources to build
146
God’s Kingdom! I’ve dedicated my life to doing just that and I
challenge you to go to work with me!
When I was given this mandate and vision called The Fundraising
Advantage, I was on board without having a clue as to how this
was going to be accomplished. When God tells me to do
something (I hear the skeptics right now – Darnell you’re a nut),
I don’t ask questions and I simply trust God that He will show me
the path. I know that in His time, his mission for me will be fully
explained. And that He has done. I have been patient and calm,
knowing that the whole project was God’s. It was and is totally
in His hands.
Why would I tell you about this? Because the ministries you
know that are truly doing God’s work need funding. Money is a
very good thing when it is used for Godly purposes and not for
greed. I am humbled that God would choose me to serve in this
way, and I am also very, very excited to share this with those of
you who aren’t too skeptical to understand it.
147
If you don’t have substantial amounts of money right now, it’s
because you haven’t yet successfully passed that test I just
mentioned. You think money is yours to cling to. Nope, sorry,
it’s all God’s and when you get that single, HUGE concept, you
will have discovered one of the greatest secrets of life.
148
the one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid
his master’s money.”
“The man with the two talents also came. ‘Master,’ he said,
‘you entrusted me with two talents; see, I have gained two
more.’ His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful
servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put
you in charge of many things. Come and share your
master’s happiness!’”
“Then the man who had received the one talent came.
‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man,
harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where
you have not scattered seed. So I was afraid and went out
and hid your talent in the ground. See, here is what
belongs to you.’”
149
“‘Take the talent from him and give it to the one who has
the ten talents. For everyone who has will be given more,
and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have,
even what he has will be taken from him. And throw that
worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there
will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’”
Law of Circulation
150
Giving
By doing so, they are breaking a simple, yet little known principle
and secret about money and having money. One must first GIVE
in order to GET. I call this the Law of Circulation. You have to
put money into circulation, rather than keeping it clinched to
yourself. Money is not you. It is not a body part. And again, it
is not even yours.
151
truth. And that truth will set you free! Don’t worship money,
worship God. At the same time, don’t fear money. Simply use it
for God’s kingdom.
MPs want the light without sending out the current. Rather than
doing anything about solving the dilemma of having too little
light, they just sit on their porch and moan. Is that Ole Blue I
hear in the background?
152
So, entrepreneurs understand the value, indeed the necessity of
putting money into the circuit (circulation). Without doing that,
their project doesn’t work. When they do send it out, and
consistently continue to send it out, they set up a process
whereby the money comes back, actually in multiples of what
was originally sent out.
“Mine” Myth
153
and me). It is our obligation to thank Him in return and send
blessings to others on an ongoing basis – putting it into constant
circulation. You should be giving and giving, even without
thinking about the return. That’s the kind of thinking that keeps
the circuit functioning. The laws of physics kick in and cannot be
denied. As long as the circuit stays intact, your giving will come
back in multiplied amounts and in ways that transcend mere
dollars.
If you are going out onto the battlefield, and feel like you’ve been
losing the battle for a long time, it is imperative that you analyze
the shape of the battlefield itself. It is possible that your
battlefield was created to your disadvantage.
For instance, I’ve spent the better part of thirty years active in
the fields of marketing and advertising. Closely related to those
fields is the seriously important, yet boring subject of
“compensation structures.” Most people don’t think
compensation plans and numbers are important and therefore
154
pay little if any attention to them. Many people find
compensation structures to just be too complicated.
If the NEM Giant is your next conquest, you should take the
necessary time to scrutinize the compensation structure on which
you have been relying. It may be the case that your
compensation structure is seriously flawed. My experience shows
that to be exactly the case for the majority of people in the
corporate world and even for those who own their own business.
155
to your advantage, or you’ll have to create your own
compensation structure – your own “playing field”.
I could cite dozens of examples of this. Here are a few that will
illustrate what I’m talking about:
Case Study:
156
(not in voting control), Paul is entering a position where he could
be overruled consistently, and even be voted out of the business.
157
on the bank account) regarding all issues of your business. Hire
employees or independent contractors for services your company
needs, rather than partner with someone who possesses those
talents.
Dear Reader: Yes, you reading right now. Are you listening to
what I just said? If a million people read this book and only one
pays heed to the previous paragraphs regarding advice on
partnerships, then the effort to write this book will have been
worth it. You just avoided a major Giant without having to step
on a non-level battlefield!
Case Study 2:
158
not fall under the domain of “a Level Playing Field”. It doesn’t
even fall in the domain of “possible.” In my opinion, what it
takes to make decent money with many of these “opportunities”
is simply not doable for the vast majority of people.
159
David was fighting the right Giant, but had David’s battlefield
been for instance, in a forest or on a boat, his sling-shot might
not have been the best weapon. If Goliath had a helmet that
included protection between his eyes, David would have had to
resort to another game plan that found another of the Giant’s
vulnerabilities. It is not unusual that Giant Slayers have to
regroup and consider all the angles. That doesn’t mean the job
won’t get done, it simply means that, based on a savvy
assessment, the first choice of weapons and battlefield location
may necessarily need to change.
Proverbs 13:20a says, “He who walks with the wise grows wise…”
**************
160
Notes:
161
Chapter 9
“25The king will give great wealth to the man who kills him. He
will also give him his daughter in marriage and will exempt his
father’s family from taxes in Israel.”
26
David asked the men standing near him, “What will be done for
the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from
Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy
the armies of the living God?” 27They repeated to him what they
had been saying and told him, “This is what will be done for the
man who kills him.” 1 Samuel 17:25b-27
As the time draws near to Slay Your Giant, you will want to
clearly understand exactly why you are going to the effort of
Slaying Your Giant. David asked about and was told three times
what the rewards for his Slaying Goliath would be. He may not
have known it, but this was David’s Ample Reason check list. I
can just hear David engaged in the following thoughts…
David: “Did I hear you say, the king’s daughter - the really good-
looking one over there?’”
David: “And do you really mean that my father’s entire family will
be tax exempt?”
162
David: “That’s what I thought I heard - I’m in, let’s get on with
the fight!”
1. __________________________________________
2. __________________________________________
3. __________________________________________
4. __________________________________________
5. __________________________________________
163
alone is responsible for the creation of more Champions than
talent, mechanics, preparation, or skills combined.
SUB keeps you on the battlefield until the battle has been
decided. It keeps you on the path to New Home, ensuring you
won’t slow up or give up until you’ve entered New Home’s gates.
The power of belief supersedes any opponent you have ever
faced. Belief is the most powerful trump card you will ever carry.
Sustaining that belief and never wavering is the posture that true
Champions take with them on to the battlefield.
Believe, my friend, believe. God will know He can trust you when
you choose Sustained, Unwavering Belief. Believe - sustain that
belief and never waver. You are unquestionably a Champion
164
Giant Slayer. SUB is what separates Champions from MPs. SUB
is what fuels your journey to New Home. SUB is your crowning
possession, greater than any other thing you can own or hold. It
allows you to confidently enter and stay on the battlefield.
Congruence
165
handle with the Giant we are about to Slay without having other
battles going on within our self.
If you are living a life of incongruity, you are having to cope with
the conflict within yourself in one of two ways. The first way
most commonly implemented by MPs is to add new strands to
their ever-growing Web of Rationalization. They have to make
even more excuses for the incongruities in their life. They have
to say, well, I’m not perfect; and I really like to do such and such
(too often that such and such is simply sin), and it’s really not
hurting anybody anyway. Sadly, three new strands have just
been added to their already carefully constructed web, condoning
and strengthening the inappropriate lifestyle – the more strands
and the stronger the web of rationalization, the weaker the
person. Adding strands is the first method of coping – a totally
bad way of dealing with character flaws and sin.
The second way to deal with incongruence, and what this book is
all about, is to Slay the errant behavior. The sin, character
flaws, bad habit, or bad behavior has to go. Unfortunately, MPs
often prefer to delete the positive behavior in order to make
room for the sin. They’ll quit going to church or quit reading the
Bible in order to cut down on their “cognitive dissonance.” What
they are doing is rejecting the reality and need for God in their
life. That unfortunate choice is the opposite of Slaying Your
Giant – it is actually the feeding and growing of Your Giant.
No, we must Slay the Giant – that is, eradicate the sin in our life,
the errant ways that we have allowed to enter our lifestyle.
Living an incongruent lifestyle serves to pamper Your Giant. It
166
grows the Giant and keeps him around. It is a lifestyle choice of
compromise that will effectively trap and lock you solidly in the
confines of Old Home.
Submit your request and desire in prayer to Slay Your Giant. Ask
in the name of Jesus, and He will do it! I can feel your
167
excitement. I know that your unquestioning faith will bring about
the death of your Giant - end of story.
Done Deal
Did you get that? You should pray from now on knowing your
requests will be answered. “And I will do whatever you ask in
my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You
may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” John 14:13-14
168
Your requests are certain to be heard. They are certain to be
answered. That makes the prayer of a true believer a “done
deal.”
My friend, you have God on your side when you are living your
life to please Him, aligning your thoughts, actions, and will with
His. So ask for that which you wish to have happen in your life.
Be sure that what you are asking for is in God’s will and to His
glory. When you do this humbly and sincerely – what you ask for
and believe for will happen. It is a done deal!
It is Time
Are you ready? You’re going out to Fight Your Giant. More
accurately, you are going to Slay Your Giant. You’ve made the
decision. You’re geared up. You’re on deck. It’s time to step
out onto the battlefield. You and I have been having this
discussion for one reason – to win the battle. In fact, there are
no other options. It’s a done deal.
169
The Battlefield Location is: ___________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
Day: ____________________________
Hour: ___________________________
Minute: __________________________
How long will this battle take? David’s fight lasted only a few
moments. Depending on Your Giant, he may take years to fully
Slay. The real answer to the question, “how long will it take to
Slay My Giant,” is…
170
Until Your Giant is Dead
Until you are holding the (get ready) decapitated head proudly in
your hand. That is when you will know you’ve been victorious.
50
“So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a
stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine
and killed him.”
51
“David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine’s
sword and drew it form the scabbard. After he killed him, he cut
off his head with the sword.”
“When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned
and ran. 52 Then the men of Israel and Judah surged forward
with a shout and pursued the Philistines to the entrance of Gath
and to the gates of Ekron. Their dead were strewn along the
Shaaraim road to Gath and Ekron. 53 When the Israelites
returned from chasing the Philistines, they plundered their
camp.”
54
“David took the Philistine’s head and brought it to Jerusalem,
and he put the Philistine’s weapons in his own tent.”
55
“As Saul watched David going out to meet the Philistine, he
said to Abner, commander of the army, ‘Abner, whose son is that
young man?’”
171
“As soon as David returned from killing the Philistine, Abner took
him and brought him before Saul, with David still holding the
Philistine’s head.”
58
“ ‘Whose son are you, young man?’ Saul asked him.”
You have chosen to Slay Your Giant and you are not going to
stop until he is a non-breathing, eradicated, beheaded, dead
Giant. David picked up the decapitated head of Goliath and held
onto it for some time – the trophy symbolizing the finalization
and victory of his battle.
Once Your Giant is dead, I encourage you to fill out and enlarge
the Giant Death Certificate included at the end of this book. You
may want to frame this important document, because it
represents a fresh beginning for you.
172
If Your Giant is the fear of starting a business, you can
accomplish that much more quickly and definitively. You can
have a new business up and running in as soon as two to three
months without sacrificing sufficient due diligence and
preparation.
Upon rising early, I read the Bible, pray, exercise, shower, eat
fruit with a cup of coffee, and jot down my three top priorities of
action for that day. It’s a fantastic way to start the day and will
173
help you replace the non-productive habits that have crept into
your life. You’ll soon be amazed at how good your day can be
and how you could ever have had another, less productive
agenda like that of your former lifestyle.
********************
Epilogue
174
If you are Slaying the Fear of Speaking Giant, you need to start
speaking more, rather than avoiding talking. Most fear is
overcome by doing the thing you fear. Action is a powerful Giant
Slayer!
***********************
Well, my friend, I’ve taken you as far as I can. At this point Your
Giant awaits you on the battlefield. He’s looking for you, but he’s
not going to know what hit him. Don’t feel sorry for him. He’s
as good as already dead. I know without question that you have
the full wherewithal and mindset to actually Slay Your Giant. My
question to you now is, “Will You Slay Your Giant?”
***********************
175
Let us pray:
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
176
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
The Beginning
177
Thank you so much for studying Slay Your Giant. Please E-mail your
response to the question above and/or comments to:
TimD@AdvantageConferences.com
*****************
If you would like to know more about accepting Jesus Christ into your
heart as your personal Lord and Savior: www.TimDarnell.org
*****************
If you would like to know more about Mr. Darnell’s Company, Advantage
Conferences, you can go to this website: www.7KAbundantLife.com
*****************
If you would like information on Tim Darnell’s newest Praise and Worship
Album, The Heart of Worship: www.RhinoNationPublishing.com
*****************
*****************
****************
To recommend people you know to read Slay Your Giant by sending them a
link to the e-book or printed version: www.SlayYourGiant.com
178
Giant Death Certificate
______________________________________________
(Your Former Giant)
______________________
Giant Slayer
______________________
Signature
179
About the author…
Tim has been active in Christian fundraising for many years, and
over the past years, along with his group, Dreamer, has
particularly focused on The God’s Child Project of Antigua,
Guatemala. He attends Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church in
Allen, Texas where he enjoys participating in the Worship and
Arts Ministry, and teaching Bible study on a backup basis. As a
Gideon, he also teaches Bible study at a local prison on a weekly
basis.
Tim and his wife, Cathy have been married for twenty years and
have three children:
Lindy - 16, Hannah – 14, and Timothy Caleb – 7
Slay Your Giant is Tim’s first book.
180
The Darnells
Hannah, Lindy, Cathy, Caleb, and Tim
181