Tony Evans might be a world-renowned evangelical pastor, author and speaker, but that doesn’t mean he’s immune to the same life challenges others face.

The one difference? The husband and father of four has learnt how to lean on his faith when conflicts arise.

Dr Evans will be on the Island this Saturday sharing his knowledge and wisdom at the Overcome Conference. Hosted by Cornerstone Bible Foundation, the event will also feature a message from Senior Pastor Gary Simons and Worship Leader Tricray Astwood.

You’ll be sharing on overcoming hardships at the event on Saturday morning. What kind of obstacles have you personally come up against in your faith walk?

Different seasons in my life I have thought about different trials. Early on they were major financial trials that I had to believe God for a miracle to overcome. I had to do intense prayer for God to reverse my circumstance. There was also a time when my daughter got pregnant in college and I had to seek encouragement and guidance from others I respected.

Why do you think Christians get so stuck when it comes to hardships? Are too many of us going into our faith with the perception things will be easy?

They get stuck because of bad theology that teaches Christians are not supposed to have hardships. There is a need for a clearer teaching from the principles and purpose of suffering.

You get to meet people from all walks of life, and from around the world, through your ministry. What are some of the more common struggles you’ve seen other believers struggle with?

I’ve seen people battle with health struggles, financial struggles, relationship struggles and key decisions they need to make.

What do you hope this workshop will teach them? Is there anything in particular you want people to walk away with?

I want the workshop to strengthen people’s faith during hard times so that they find encouragement in the midst of their discouragement.

We are a small island, yet you minister to us at least once a year. Why have you chosen to invest in the island in this way?

I love the people of Bermuda and I have a special relationship with Pastor Gary Simons and his wonderful ministry. I also get to enjoy the beauty of this island.

How long have you and your wife, Lois, been coming here? When you aren’t preaching what kinds of things do the two of you enjoy doing in Bermuda?

We’ve been coming for five years now and we love to just walk, and of course my wife loves to shop.

Did you grow up in a Christian household? What sparked your decision to go into full-time ministry?

Yes I did grow up in a Christian household. The influence of my father and the model he set sparked my decision to go into full-time ministry.

Did you ever imagine you would get to share the gospel with people from around the globe? What has been your most memorable experience while preaching overseas?

God gave me a vision that he was going to use me in a broad way. One of the most memorable experiences was when I ministered in India and had to use an interpreter. Just seeing the exciting response of the people [really moved me].

Your children have continued your legacy with their own respective ministries. How does that make you feel as a father to see them thriving in their different avenues?

It makes me exceedingly proud and excited especially since they chose to do ministry without pressure from their parents.

With all you’ve done for God’s Kingdom, which accomplishment are you most proud of?

The fact that our family loves each other and loves the Lord and loves being together.

• The conference will be held on Saturday at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club from 9am until noon. Tickets, $30 or $50 including breakfast, are available at www.bdatix.bm