Mike Lee has an incredible journey of resilience and redemption that has inspired countless lives. Growing up in Durham, North Carolina, in a family that valued faith and sacrifice, Mike became the first in his family to attend college, although his childhood dream was to become a cowboy. But God had different plans, leading him from an unexpected start as a young pastor in Southern California to founding Hope Community Church in North Carolina, which grew into one of the largest churches in America.

After a personal crisis that led to the end of his ministry at Hope, Mike’s life took a dark turn, facing depression, shame, and despair. But through God’s grace, the support of steadfast friends, and a powerful journey of journaling, he found healing and renewed purpose. His book, Death by Church, Life through Christ, shares these lessons of hope, reminding anyone who has ever failed or faced loss that God can restore and transform even the darkest moments.

Today, Mike and his wife, Shannon, are passionate about sharing God’s faithfulness, especially with those who feel lost or broken. With a message rooted in grace and resilience, Mike inspires others to see hope beyond failure and to discover a God who never gives up on us.