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 Seek Counsel
“Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.” — Proverbs 11:14 (NLT)
Bill Bright on Exercising Your Faith Muscles
“I had to learn how to trust the Lord. My faith muscles grew. Just like, you’re exercising your muscles and they may be sore for a while, but they become stronger with exercise.” — William R. “Bill” Bright (October 19, 1921 – July 19, 2003) was an American evangelist and Christian leader. His influence spanned the last half of the … 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
Charting a New Course: What to Do When You Don’t Respond Well to Stress
Let’s face it: none of us are always going to respond correctly, especially when a challenging situation first hits. So let’s talk briefly about what to do when we’ve had time to reflect and realize that we could have done things better. Here are three ideas about what to do if you find you’ve started handling a difficulty in an … Read More
Seize the Day
“How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? For your life is like the morning fog – it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.” – James 4:14 (NLT)
Wesley on the Power of Living for God
“Give me one hundred men who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not whether they be clergyman or laymen, they alone will shake the gates of Hell and set up the kingdom of Heaven upon the earth.” – John Wesley, 18th century Anglican evangelist and joint founder of Methodism
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
8 Biblical Principles for Recruiting New Volunteers
When I was just starting in ministry, one of my most respected mentors said something to me that I’ve never forgotten. As I was venting to him about feeling like a one-man show in my young church, he put his arm around me and said, “Nelson, remember, every member in your church is a minister. You are not in this alone … Read More
Leaders Should Be Servants
“But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant.” —Luke 22:26 (NLT)