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When I first began work on this book, I was overwhelmed by the
seemingly insurmountable task of creating an entire volume of work
from start to finish. I lacked the skills of an experienced
author and, although I knew I had much to say, found it difficult to
put my thoughts on paper. This book could not have been written,
therefore, without the support and assistance of many friends and
colleagues.
My mother-in-law, Sue Smith, a professional
manuscript editor, edited the early drafts of the text and taught me
a great deal about some of the more technical aspects of writing.
The Reverend Robert Hill, professional writer and
editor, provided me with invaluable suggestions regarding chapter
organization and writing style, as well as edited various drafts of
this book.
Three friends and fellow Taylor University
alumni, Jeff Evans, Jack Hill, and Dan Pederson, have been
instrumental in bringing the book to market.
Dottie Coleman has faithfully served me for years
as my secretary and friend and has provided countless hours of
clerical assistance.
I wish to thank my parents, Elmer and Wanda
Chance, along with my brother, Bill Chance, for always believing in me
and encouraging me to take risks, even though those risks at times
took me far from home.
I wish to also thank the members of the board of
directors of Golden Clay Ministries for their faithful service,
guidance, and encouragement. Whereas every person who has ever
served as a member of the board has made valuable and significant
contributions to this ministry, I wish to make special mention of
Roland Elder, whose premature death from liver cancer prevented him
from seeing this book in print.
I owe a great debt of gratitude to Golden Clay
Ministries’ many financial supporters. Their generosity has
provided me with a platform to develop many of the ideas found in this
book.
Finally, I want to thank my wife, Randi, who has
stood beside me from the beginning of this project. She is my
best friend and has been intricately involved in developing, editing,
and proofreading the manuscript.
Steven G. Chance
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