Larry Durham

Larry Dean Durham was born in Alliance, Nebraska, and his journey through life has been as diverse as it has been enriching. From his early years, he displayed a passion for creativity and innovation, traits that would shape his career and personal endeavors. During the transformative years of the 1970s through the early 1980s, Larry immersed himself in the Jesus Movement's vibrant atmosphere at Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California. Here, under the guidance of mentors such as Chuck Smith, Chuck Missler, and later with Rick Warren, he deepened his spiritual roots and cultivated a sense of purpose and service. Larry’s professional journey spanned over three decades in the entertainment industry, where he served as a director of package engineering. His expertise extended across various mediums, from LP Record Jackets to DVDs, and his knack for crafting extraordinary, custom packaging garnered him accolades and patents. His contributions to the field were widely recognized, with numerous awards celebrating his outstanding packaging designs. Outside of his professional pursuits, Larry remained deeply committed to his faith, actively participating in church affairs and serving on various boards. His leadership as the chairman of His Place Christian Centre in Indiana exemplified his dedication to fostering spiritual community and growth. Over the past 40 or so years, Larry has been heavily involved in Small Groups, sometimes referred to as Life Groups, in leading, teaching, writing, and ministering in discipleship. He believes that the church is highly effective when the membership meets in smaller venues where intimate relationships are formed, and testimonials are shared for edification. One unique part that has had a tremendous effect is the time when we review and share what we received from our past Sunday service. The idea that we are attendees versus participants changes our minds and hearts as we share together. We also place a priority on studying the Bible, fellowship, and time for special prayer in the format of these groups. Driven to share his insights and reflections, Larry authored “MTFT (My Thoughts for Today)," a collection of over 650 daily devotionals. Through these writings, he continues to inspire and uplift others, offering wisdom gleaned from a life rich in experiences. Today, Larry resides in North Carolina alongside his beloved wife, Nickie. Together, they cherish their roles as parents to Robert and Mindie, grandparents to Megan and Autumn and their husbands, Tony and Jody and as great-grandparents to Maverick, affectionately called "The Mav." Larry says; It is our desire to daily live out the values of God in love, faith, and family, the foundation principles that have guided us throughout this remarkable journey. Both Larry and Nickie are very involved in their local church, Grace Covenant Church in Cornelius.