May 12, 2023 | Inspiration
As any runner can tell you, no one starts off running by signing up for a marathon. First I learned to run a mile, and then I worked up to a 5K, and then I tackled numerous half-marathons and a lot of intense training before building up the endurance to run 26.2...
May 5, 2023 | Refreshment
A popular maxim goes like this: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” First impressions are often etched into the mind and hard to overcome with later interactions. The whole field of marketing seeks to create positive first impressions of their...
May 2, 2023 | Inspiration
Begin with What You’ve Been Given A faithful person honors, cherishes, maintains, and guards the faith of those who put their trust in him by keeping his promises to them. God’s always like this. You and I, on the other hand . . . well, let’s just say this proverb was...
Apr 28, 2023 | Inspiration
Ever since I can remember, I’ve wanted to hear God’s voice: a loud, booming voice. Heavenly words that were clear and undeniable. Anytime I’d pray as a kid, I’d hope that voice would respond. But it never did. Another voice danced around inside of me, though. I’d try...
Apr 25, 2023 | Perspectives
Organizational cultures are born in the intersections of shared relationships. If the quality of those relationships is healthy and constructive, that’s the kind of culture we’ll experience. If those relationships are toxic and fear-filled, well, that’s exactly the...
Apr 21, 2023 | Inspiration
As any runner can tell you, no one starts off running by signing up for a marathon. First I learned to run a mile, and then I worked up to a 5K, and then I tackled numerous half-marathons and a lot of intense training before building up the endurance to run 26.2...
Apr 18, 2023 | Editor's Pick, Inspiration
Matthew is a stereotypical millennial evangelical worship pastor. He dressed the part with his oversized sweater, ripped jeans, and converse shoes. He was highly creative, passionate, and extremely extroverted. I could feel his energy even before he walked into the...
Apr 14, 2023 | Inspiration
What does your congregation think when you encourage them to “go and make disciples” (nlt) like Jesus commissioned us in Matthew 28:16-20? If they are like most congregations, their thoughts are a mix of That sounds hard and I don’t know how to do that. Or I’ll bring...
Apr 11, 2023 | Inspiration
A minister’s duties may include everything from providing counseling and mentorship to organizing charitable events and helping to strengthen members’ faith. It can be difficult to see a person retire after they’ve played such an important role in your church and...
