Dr. Bobby Atkins

Bobby Atkins and I have been friends for almost 28 years. We both experienced dramatic conversions to Christ about one month apart. We both went to the same Bible College in Dallas, Texas; we have preached in each others churches throughout our ministry. We have traveled around the world together on mission assignments. We have been in Israel, India, Africa and Brazil together. The above picture was taken before we went on our first oversea mission trip to Brazil in May of 1983. A lot less hair later and for me a lot more weight later we still are the best of friends.

This past Sunday, on the invitation of his wife Marie, I surprised Bobby by showing up at his church in Atlanta for a surprise 25th anniversary celebration of his ministry. Marie and their children and the congregation of Truth Tabernacle of Praise outdid their selves in presenting Bobby with an almost three hour long service of songs, banners, testimonies, a love offering and a special tribute by his children. I was instructed not to preach but tell as many embarrassing stories as I could on their beloved pastor. It was hard to narrow them down to fit my time slot. I told of Bobby using his negotiating skills in Brazil to secure us a deal, his upgrading skills to get a “special” room in Israel and our unique swimming experience in Jerusalem (I cannot believe I told that one!). I told of the time we were almost martyred in India (that one was not funny) and of the many times I witnessed God use Bobby Atkins around the world.

The Bible says a friend is born for adversity. The longer we live the more we realize how few and precious true friends we have on this earth. Bobby has been my friend in the good times and the difficult times. His wisdom and godly advice have saved me many times. I am thankful to be his friend. Congratulations Bobby on 25 years of ministry. I pray that the next season will be even more blessed so that your latter days are more productive and fruitful than your former.

Neil Cameron Graham 1952-2008

On Saturday January 12, I was in the hospital room with Neil when his courageous battle with cancer ended with total victory as he entered the presence of his Lord. Neil Graham was one of my best friends. He and his wife Karla were the first couple to join the church in Trophy Club on my first Sunday. When I finally decided to pursue one of my personal dreams of beginning Destiny International, Neil Graham was one of my biggest encouragers. He was a Dream Mate in every sense of the word. He and I spent countless hours at Starbucks, in my office or driving around in his truck talking, laughing and dreaming about ways to change the world.

A Strong and Courageous Man

I told the people gathered for a memorial service on Sunday night in Trophy Club that Neil Graham was the strongest and most courageous man I have ever met. He was strong physically. Looking at his picture as a young Marine serving our country in Vietnam, I certainly would not want to be the enemy facing him on the battlefield. He fought very bravely for his country serving in countless dangerous situations in special operations. What is most amazing is that about two years ago with chemotherapy drugs in his body he bench pressed 538 pounds three times at a local gym! That is not a misprint. 538 pounds! He was working for the State record for men over fifty when the cancer forced him to stop. He was a man’s man. He was my friend.

Neal’s testimony that he shared at our Date with Destiny conferences was how Jesus moved from his head to his heart. He had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I have wept and grieved all weekend over how much I will miss my friend but I do not sorrow as one with no hope (1Thessalonians 4:13). I believe in the Gospel as Neil did and expectantly look forward to a reunion one day.

Please pray for Karla and his daughter Cameron, stepdaughters Dawn and Chrissy, his Father and his beloved sisters Vivian, Nell and Paula. I will travel with the family this weekend for funeral services in Lumberton, North Carolina.