Statement of Faith
First and foremost in my life is my faith in God. My faith in salvation through Jesus Christ. I never pull out a soap box and preach to my students, I think that is wrong and superficial.
I believe the best way to express to others your faith in God is by living out your faith in front of them. By setting an example. When others observe the way you live and treat others, that is how they determine what kind of person you are regardless of your faith or religion.
I endeavor to treat others only the way I would want to be treated. Never to lie to, cheat, mistreat or judge another human being.
Jesus Christ is the center of my and my wife's lives. We have been married for 24 years and have two beautiful children the Lord has blessed us with.
Has it been a "bowl of cherries" all the time? Of course not. We have had our challenges just like everyone else. But our faith in God has always pulled us through and brought us out on the other side in victory and better people.
God has inspired me to minister to others through health and fitness. Why? Because the Word of God clearly states our bodies are His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-21).
God does not want his people sick and feeble. He wants us strong and healthy so we can enjoy life on this earth and be an inspiration to others.
You may say the Bible states to turn the other cheek and not retaliate when offended physically. So why would God want me to teach martial arts?
First of all it is my dream. Second, martial arts are not about fighting, they are about discipline and expressing the human body God has blessed us with. Fighting is always a last resort and should be avoided if possible. We are to live peaceably among our neighbors if possible (Romans 12:18-21). Notice that the verse says if possible. Sometime it may not be possible.
We live in a violent, desperate world full of people who do not respect the rights of others. God never intended for his people to be subjected to wanton violence and not defend themselves.
Therefore, I instruct my students how to defend themselves if need be and how to avoid an altercation altogether.
I take this calling in my life seriously and therefore by God's grace will carry it out to the best of my ability with His help and blessing.
Elliott W. Woodards
