As pastors, we can’t allow negative, anxious thoughts to overwhelm us — at least not for long. After all, we serve a big, amazing God who is greater than all our troubles. When we focus on everything that’s wrong around us, we can become defeated. But if we keep our focus on the things that are going right, we might … Read More
The Voice In Your Head: Listening to Your Internal Dialogue
One of the main things that separate us from animals is our ability to think about our thought life, to note an individual thought passing through our minds, analyze it for its truth and worth, and then act accordingly. God gave us this unique ability when he made us in his image. But so often, we let our thoughts run … Read More
Leaders Persevere in their Purpose
“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” —Romans 8:28 (NLT)
Bill Bright on His 50-Year Prayer Request
“I want before God that everything, every thought, attitude, action, motive, desire in my heart be pleasing to Him. I ask Him, ‘Keep the spotlight of your Spirit on me so there would be nothing impure or unholy in my life.’ That’s been my prayer for 50 years.” — William R. “Bill” Bright (October 19, 1921 – July 19, 2003) … Read More
5 Ways to Teach Kids about Missions, by International Mission Board
Each week in our children’s ministry, we gather our elementary-age kids for a time of worship. It includes praise songs, hand motions, call-and-response Bible and catechism memory, creative Bible teaching, and a time of prayer. We enjoy each of these assembly gatherings. We cherish the opportunity to sing and teach the good news to kids every week. But a few … Read More
4 Ways to Be a Lifelong Learner in Your Ministry
The call to ministry is the call to prepare — and preparation is an ongoing process. You will never learn all there is to be learned about any subject; you’ll never reach the pinnacle point in any area. And who would want to? It’s the continual reaching that grows you, equipping you to live and minister at an ever-increasing level. … Read More
Don’t Miss the Last Systems Boot Camp of the Decade
The 2019 Church Systems Checkup & Boot Camp will be my last one.* Let me explain. There will be no 2020 gathering as I will be using that year to focus on special plans that you will hear about soon. But, I am committed to making 2019 the best ever! I am loading up 2019 Boot Camp with more immediately … Read More
Grow Your Church – Know the 8 Systems AND How to Measure Them! FREE “What Get’s Measured ” E-Book ($23.95 value)
In life, we keep track of numbers for the things that are important to us. We measure birthdays and anniversaries. We make our kids stand against a wall and mark their height each year. We constantly know how much money is in our bank account and how much principal is left on our mortgage. And as my doctor was quick … Read More
How to Strengthen Your Personal and Spiritual Foundation
When you’re feeling out of sorts, you may need to strengthen your personal and spiritual foundation. There are two main categories to consider when doing this: public activities and private disciplines. When you are feeling emotionally drained, anxious, or depressed, lean even harder on both. Make sure to be intentional about the following: Your connection with your church. Stay connected … Read More
Leaders Seek Counsel
“Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.” — Proverbs 11:14 (NLT)