After reflecting on God’s ultimate promise that He would never leave or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6), Sumrall penned these insightful words: “I am holding on to the hope I have inside/ With you I will stay through every day/ Putting my understanding aside/And I am comforted.”

“That’s an amazing promise, and it’s never broken,” Sumrall says. “No matter where we are or whatever we are dealing with, we can hold onto it forever.”
 
Changing Times

Of all the songs on Kutless’ new CD, the cut “Winds of Change” seems particularly apropos to Sumrall. “I’ve been at a point in life where things changed dramatically, especially with the birth of my son,” he says. “The song deals with trusting the Lord during times when life might not be exactly how you planned it. When changes happen and things get crazy, the situation can be a blessing. At first, I wondered what we would do when we had a child; but he’s been a real joy.”

Another change that’s affected the band is the addition of two new members, drummer Jeffrey Gilbert and bassist Dave Luetkenhoelter, both formerly of the group Seven Places. And original members Kyle Ziegler and Kyle Mitchell? “The road is a difficult place for some people,” Sumrall explains. “The guys with us before just weren’t into it; and anytime you’re in an environment where some of the guys don’t want to be there, it’s a tough situation.”

Currently, both men run a recording studio in Vancouver, Wash., where they help young, local bands develop their talent.

As for the newest bandmates, Sumrall says the transition has been extremely smooth. “Their enthusiasm has been magnetic and a boost for all of us,” he says. “Jeff and Dave definitely helped us bolster the sound of the new record, and our live show keeps getting tighter.”

Staying Strong

Anytime a band spends so much time on the road, trials and temptations are inevitable. For Kutless, accountability and boundaries are essential safeguards for remaining on track spiritually.

“We’ve been fortunate to have a support network of people who make sure we keep our heads on straight,” says Sumrall. “We have a tour pastor with us named Brad Duncan, and he leads all of us in daily devotions. We also have our wives with us most of the time, and they help put us in our place like no one else can,” he says with a chuckle.

Disciple’s Young has been impressed with the maturity and integrity Kutless has exhibited over  numerous months on the tour circuit. “It’s an honor to know these guys and watch them offstage, which is where they inspire us most,” he says. “One of the most remarkable things about Kutless is, if a girl comes up after a show and asks for a hug, the guys don’t [comply]. Sometimes people get offended, but the guys simply say, ‘The only woman I hug is my wife.’”

What about the temptation to get caught up in the trappings of fame and success? “We hear testimonies from young people who say that our music has touched them or changed their lives, and that helps keep us humble,” Sumrall says. “We’re not out here to become rock stars or anything like that. We just want to impact people’s lives for Christ, and, when that happens, it keeps our focus in the right direction.”

    
© 2006 CCM Magazine.  All rights reserved.  Used with permission.   Click here to subscribe.