Faith often becomes most visible in the places where life requires endurance, humility, and service. For Chris Gardner, Director of Ministry, Training, and Technology at Legacy Ministries, that journey has included military service, a transition into civilian life, decades of work in information technology, and a growing commitment to helping others walk more deeply with Jesus Christ.
In this Living My Faith with James Fenimore feature, Chris shares a veteran faith journey shaped by gratitude, perseverance, Scripture, marriage, ministry, and a desire to serve Christ in every area of life.
A Veteran Faith Journey Rooted in Service
Chris Gardner is a veteran whose Navy enlistment ended in 1985. Looking back, he describes the transition out of the military as one of the most impactful moments of his life. Re-adjusting to civilian life was challenging, especially as he and his wife were young and had married while serving.
For many veterans, leaving military structure behind can require a new kind of discipline. Chris and his wife had to re-learn how to live off base and adapt to the traditional rhythms of civilian life. At the same time, Chris remains deeply grateful for his time in the Navy, noting that it was instrumental in introducing him to his wife.
That gratitude reflects a powerful theme: even seasons of transition can become part of a larger testimony when viewed through faith.
Living Faith at Work, Home, and in the Community
Chris has worked in the information technology industry since his enlistment ended. Yet his faith has not been confined to church settings or weekend gatherings. Since 2007, he has led, launched, and helped others activate faith-based employee groups at a variety of companies.
This kind of service highlights a practical model for Christian leadership: faith can be lived out with integrity in the workplace, in relationships, and in daily responsibilities. Chris describes these experiences as richly blessed, and they have become part of his ongoing calling to encourage believers in their spiritual growth.
Serving While Balancing Work and Ministry
Chris also remains active in ministry while continuing his responsibilities in the IT industry. He and his wife hosted a house church from 2010 to 2023, and he now serves on the leadership team at Legacy Ministries.
His story reminds us that ministry is not limited to a title or a building. For veterans, professionals, parents, and leaders alike, living faith can mean faithfully serving where God has placed you today.
The Scripture That Guides His Work
One passage that has been especially meaningful to Chris is Colossians 3:23-24:
“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.”
Chris describes this as one of his “life verses.” For him, it is vital to remember that he is serving Jesus Christ no matter what work he is doing.
This perspective offers practical encouragement for anyone seeking to live out their faith. Whether serving in the military, working in technology, leading a ministry, caring for family, or mentoring others, the heart posture matters. Work becomes worship when it is offered to the Lord with humility and faithfulness.
Moments That Deepened His Faith
Chris points to several moments that significantly shaped his walk with God. In 1995, he and his wife participated in a Cursillo weekend and experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit. In 2000, his wife faced death due to a major illness, and following deep prayer, Chris shares that the Lord healed her through surgery and post-surgery recovery.
He also describes a meaningful transition in their church life. Cathy came from a Roman Catholic upbringing, while Chris came from an Episcopal background. Together, they later moved into a Charismatic church experience. Starting in 2007, they entered what Chris calls their Bible college era, emerging deeper in love with one another and with the Lord.
These experiences reflect a faith journey marked by learning, healing, growth, and a willingness to follow God into new seasons.
Legacy Ministries: Discipleship, Mentoring, and Spiritual Growth
Legacy Ministries is a non-profit Christian organization committed to establishing and maturing a community of believers in Jesus Christ. Located in Peachtree City, Georgia, the ministry offers training and mentoring services grounded in prayer and worship.
Its programs are available in person and online and include discipleship, mentoring, speaking, writing, and more. The ministry’s heart is to support people on their spiritual journey and help believers grow in maturity.
Why Mentoring Matters
Chris encourages those struggling to live out their faith or seeking spiritual growth to seek the Lord and engage with Scripture in a way that brings encouragement and aligns their struggles with His understanding.
He also emphasizes the importance of walking with others. If someone needs help on that journey, believers should be ready to be a “Paul” to them, helping guide them into a deeper relationship with Christ while showing respect and dignity to those who think differently.
That balance of conviction and compassion is essential. Spiritual maturity is not only about knowledge; it is also about love, humility, and faithful presence.
Practical Encouragement for Veterans and Believers
Chris Gardner’s story offers several helpful reminders for veterans, ministry leaders, and anyone seeking to live a Christ-centered life.
1. Give Yourself Grace in Transition
Moving from military life to civilian life can bring real challenges. Chris’ experience shows that readjustment takes time. Faith, community, and gratitude can help create a foundation for the next chapter.
2. Let Scripture Shape Your Work
Colossians 3:23-24 reminds believers that they can do every task for the Lord. This mindset can bring purpose to work that may otherwise feel ordinary or unseen.
3. Bring Faith Into Everyday Places
Chris’ involvement with faith-based employee groups demonstrates that workplaces can be meaningful spaces for encouragement, prayer, and Christian community when approached with wisdom and respect.
4. Keep Growing in Every Season
From church transitions to Bible college to ministry leadership, Chris’ journey reflects a willingness to keep learning and deepening his relationship with God.
5. Walk With Others Respectfully
Discipleship is relational. Chris’ advice to be a “Paul” to someone else reminds us that spiritual growth often happens through mentoring, encouragement, and patient guidance.
A Life of Faithful Service
Chris Gardner’s story highlights the connection between service, faith, and perseverance. As a veteran, technology professional, ministry leader, husband, and follower of Christ, his journey reflects a commitment to serving Jesus in every arena of life.
Through Legacy Ministries, that commitment continues through discipleship, mentoring, training, prayer, and worship. For those looking to grow spiritually, the message is clear: seek the Lord, stay rooted in Scripture, and walk with others who can help you mature in faith.
Learn More About Legacy Ministries
If you are looking for Christian mentoring, discipleship, training, or support for your spiritual journey, connect with Legacy Ministries to learn more about its in-person and online programs.
Visit Legacy Ministries to explore available resources and take the next step in your faith journey.
