By: Aubrey Coleman
What began as a question, turned into a kickstarter campaign, which then resulted in the writing and publishing of a book, and as of today that book has sold 8,500+ copies. Does God Care Who Wins? by Bob Schindler has impacted coaches, athletes, sports ministers, leaders, and readers alike by providing biblical insight into this commonly asked question.
The author, Bob Schindler, is the COO of CEDE SPORTS. CEDE SPORTS was born out of the desire to mobilize churches and chaplains into gospel centered sports ministry. Bob has prior experience in pastoral ministry and church planting, as well as careers in professional golf and several arenas of business. Through his extensive experience, God provided him with the question that now serves as the title of this book.
Does God Care Who Wins? was published in September 2017 and offered as a resource to consider the answer to this question that many may find themselves conflicted about answering. Bob walks through common answers and discusses their implications, while encouraging further dialogue. Finally, he provides an answer that makes God great, makes everyone and everything meaningful - even our failures, and moves us to God.
Bob’s answer to the question developed over 30 years, beginning with Bob’s journey into professional golf and coming to a head as he tried to qualify for the PGA Tour at PGA Tour School. The answer has taken further shape along the way through conversations with athletes, coaches, parents, and many others who wrestle with this question.
Robin Barden, Director of New Opportunities at Ridley Hall, Cambridge, shared that the book
“not only helps people think through the question, but moves them closer to God.
In doing so,” he continued, “it brings healing at a deep level.”
Bob Schindler notes that Barden’s words illustrate his very hope in writing the book. It helps people to better understand God and to connect Him to very tangible things in our world today like wins and losses. Schindler continues, “The longer I've been asking this question, the more I see what a provocative question it is, and the more humbled I am that God gave me this question to ask.”
Reaching 8,500+ copies reveals the many ways God continues to use this book to work in the lives of its readers. Bob could not be more grateful for all of the support and prayer that went into this book. The original kickstarter team not only helped fund the work of this book, but provided overwhelming confirmation, prayer, and support for what God could accomplish through this message. None of it could be possible without them! May you join us in celebrating this milestone through praise to God and prayers for continued healing and understanding found through this resource.
If you’d like to know more about this book, read about it on cedesports.org by clicking here, and if you’d like to purchase and further support the sharing of this message, click here.