What happens when you've spent your entire life going to church, knowing the Bible, and doing all the right things—only to discover that knowing about Jesus isn't the same as actually knowing Him?

On this episode of the Central Arkansas FCA Podcast, host Kason sits down with Wade Goodwin, a former Henderson State University baseball player, athlete, husband, father, and passionate follower of Jesus, for a powerful conversation about faith, surrender, and the life-changing grace of God.

Growing up in Benton, Arkansas, Wade was surrounded by sports, family, and church. His father, legendary baseball coach Russell Goodwin, taught him discipline, perseverance, and the importance of faith. Wade even maintained a remarkable streak of nearly 20 years without missing a Sunday at church!

But beneath the perfect attendance and Bible knowledge was a deeper spiritual struggle. Wade knew the stories of Scripture, but he hadn't experienced the personal relationship with Jesus that would eventually transform his life.

Through athletic success, personal struggles, broken relationships, and years of pursuing his own desires, Wade continued searching for fulfillment. Then, during a frightening battle with COVID in 2021, everything began to change.

In a season of weakness and stillness, Wade came face-to-face with a powerful realization:

"You know about Me, but you don't know Me."

That encounter launched a journey into God's Word that ultimately led Wade to describe being born again on April 15, 2022.

Today, Wade's life looks dramatically different. His passion is no longer centered on athletic achievements or personal success, but on sharing the Gospel and helping others discover the transforming love of Jesus.

You'll also hear an incredible story about an ordinary trip to a tire shop that became an extraordinary opportunity to share Christ, ultimately leading to a man's profession of faith and baptism!

In this episode, Kason and Wade discuss:

• Growing up in a sports-centered family and the influence of a godly father

• The difference between religious activity and a genuine relationship with Jesus

• Why church attendance and Bible knowledge alone cannot save us

• How personal struggles and desperation can lead us to surrender

• Wade's life-changing encounter with Jesus after battling COVID

• The importance of spending time alone with God and studying Scripture

• How to overcome fear when sharing your faith

• An unexpected salvation and baptism at a Benton tire shop

• Why busyness, distractions, and social media can keep us from pursuing God

• How God can use ordinary people in everyday situations to accomplish extraordinary things

Whether you're a student-athlete, coach, parent, or someone who has attended church for years, Wade's testimony offers an important challenge:

Do you simply know about Jesus, or do you truly know Him?

It's never too late to surrender your life to Christ and experience the abundant life He offers.

Scripture Referenced:
Jeremiah 29:13 | John 3 | Ezekiel 36:26 | John 10:10 | Psalm 46:10 | Psalm 63 | Matthew 6:33 | Ephesians 2:10 | Revelation 12:11

About Central Arkansas FCA

The Central Arkansas Fellowship of Christian Athletes exists to see the world transformed by Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes.

Join us for inspiring testimonies, meaningful conversations, and practical encouragement as we explore what it means to follow Jesus both on and off the field.

Faith meets competition. Lives are transformed by Jesus.