A few years ago I attended the funeral of a dear friend whose words back in 1969 changed the direction of my life and ministry.
As leaders in our homes, communities, organizations, or church, we must work to keep the flow of reconciliation going.
What does it look like practically to work in ways that are not self-seeking? There are infinite answers to that question. Here are just three.
The next time you are tempted to depreciate your work, regroup and celebrate your sacred calling!
Pride is difficult to deal with, for so often prideful people can see the problem in others, yet not be able to see within themselves.
Engaging with unchurched individuals (the “Nones”) who aren’t actively seeking a church requires a careful and thoughtful approach.
I have shouldered a strenuous medical career for the past 30 years as an anesthesiologist. However, there was a huge void in my primary interest to act as a caring human being who loves to comfort people in need.
My dad didn’t do this perfectly, but he came a lot closer than most.
The things you and I create at work have the power to reveal things about the Creator God.
As a rookie pastor who’s been in pastoral ministry for the past 10-plus years, here are some thoughts in response to the world's view that pastoring is strange.
Unfinished business has a way of becoming a bigger problem to solve. Little David had to face Giant Goliath because Joshua left one important task undone.
I don’t know about you, but it is hard for me to boast about nothing. Maybe I’m just an excitable, exuberant guy, but I think all of us feel the need to boast in or praise something.
And why should they turn on their headlights when visiting your church?
Richard Blackaby reviews Shaping History Through Prayer and Fasting, by Derek Prince.
In a recent episode of the StrongTeams.com podcast, hosts Steve NeSmith and Rodney Cox interviewed bestselling author and podcaster Chris Bolinger. He had much wisdom to share about avoiding sinful pride and cultivating humility. These are essential lessons for leaders in any field, but especially for those leading in ministry contexts.
How do we see and experience the maximum expression of God’s love today?
Jesus made it clear that he won’t force his best on us. He also described how life involves choices. Not everyone chooses well. I pray that in the days ahead you will choose the narrow way. Perhaps the hard way. But the path that leads to life.
Notice how Jesus fulfills each of the characteristics of an effective counselor.
One of the biggest communication issues many of us face is truly listening to people rather than simply waiting for a long enough pause for us to be able to spew out our opinions (and if a pause doesn’t come, we just butt in regardless).
As a pastor, the past mistakes can truly haunt us, and feels like they can destroy our very being. Yet, be encouraged, you are purchased and redeemed by Christ who came and died for you.
