Faith Conversation with Sarah Rose and Dave Davis: Inspiring Faith, Horses, and Christian Ministry

Welcome to a heartfelt and inspiring faith conversation between host Sarah Rose and special guest Dave Davis of the Christian Horse Show Association (CHSA). This engaging dialogue explores Dave’s remarkable journey of faith, his love for horses, and how God has uniquely woven these passions into a ministry that’s touching lives across the country.

Growing Up in Indiana and a Deep Family Heritage

Dave Davis’s story begins on a farm in Hardinsburg, Indiana—a small town with a rich history. Descended from Aaron Hardin, the town’s founder, Dave’s roots run deep in the land. A horse enthusiast from childhood, he trained horses and showed them through 4-H, developing lifelong friendships and a love for the equine world.

A Life Transformed at Twenty

At twenty, Dave’s life took a pivotal turn. He was pursuing horse training when he encountered Jesus Christ in a profound way. His salvation experience happened during a vibrant praise and worship service—a moment so powerful that he knelt at the altar and asked Jesus into his heart, feeling an immediate transformation. He recalls feeling the presence of God so strongly that he cried and knew he was born again, forever changed.

He shares a touching story of how in that moment, God delivered him from a smoking habit he struggled with, affirming his new identity in Christ. Since then, Dave has been on fire for Jesus, sharing his faith through his talents with horses and beyond.

The Power of Prayer and Faith

Dave emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer. He likens prayer to scrubbing a stain—continue praying and trusting that God is working. His own experiences of prayer being answered bolster his belief that faith and perseverance are essential to seeing miracles manifest. He encourages believers to try everything—prayer, faith, laying on of hands, anointing—to bring healing and breakthroughs.

Obedience and Following God's Call

Despite a desire to travel and preach globally, Dave recognizes that God’s plan was for him to start in his local community. His obedience led to the birth of the Christian Horse Show Association, a ministry that combines his passion for horses with his faith. The CHSA has quickly expanded nationwide, with members from every state, including Alaska and Hawaii.

The Christian Horse Show Association (CHSA)

Launched with a simple but powerful mission—let your light shine through your participation in horse shows—CHSA encourages Christians to display their faith openly. Showing your horse anywhere and submitting results to CHSA helps track points and awards, but more importantly, it’s a platform for evangelism.

Dave shares how people wear CHSA logos at events and share their faith, leading to salvation opportunities. The association also fosters relationships through Zoom fellowships and partner clubs, creating a nationwide family committed to Christ and equestrian sports.

Horses, Faith, and Connection

For Dave, horses symbolize submission, cooperation, and trust—mirroring our relationship with God. His trick horse performances showcase this harmony, illustrating how submission to God enables us to accomplish great things with Him. He emphasizes that every person has a divine birthright to hear from God, and even young children can begin experiencing His voice and leading.

Recognizing God’s Voice and Key Moments

Dave recounts powerful moments of divine guidance—visions, dreams, and impressions—showing how God speaks spirit to spirit. He shares stories from childhood and adult life where he knew God was leading him, including a vivid experience of Jesus appearing in his room before salvation. These moments have shaped his purpose and ministry.

Balancing Passion and Faith

A common misconception is that following God means giving up all fun or passion. Dave clarifies that God desires us to enjoy life, and He blesses our pursuits when they align with His purpose. His own example includes recording Christian country music, which became a successful endeavor, and receiving divine encouragement to enjoy life and fulfill His desires.

Building Relationships and Spreading the Gospel

Dave stresses the importance of relationships within the church and ministry. His life exemplifies how serving in various capacities—pastoring, evangelism, ministry performances—can lead to a fruitful and impactful life dedicated to Christ.

Closing: A Heart to Share and Inspire

Sarah concludes by praising Dave’s inspiring testimony—his passion for horses, his obedience to God’s call, and his desire to reach others with the love of Jesus. She invites him back for future conversations, recognizing there's so much more to learn from his journey.

Final Blessing

Dave closes in prayer, asking God to help everyone recognize His voice, pursue their passions with faith, and be obedient to His leading. He encourages believers to step out in faith, plan with God’s guidance, and trust that He will bless their efforts.
If you're inspired by Dave’s story and want to see how faith and horses can intersect in your life, consider exploring or joining the Christian Horse Show Association. Remember, following your passions with faith can be a powerful testimony for Christ.

Link to YouTube YouTube