The Tongue of Angels
In 1 Corinthians 13, even worthy actions like eloquent speech, vast knowledge, and fervent faith are meaningless without love. While it's important to pursue these qualities, the Bible reminds us that love must fuel them to give them true value. This week, focus on ensuring that your actions—whether in speech, faith, or generosity—are motivated by genuine love, as love is the greatest gift of all (1 Cor. 13:13). Without it, our best efforts gain nothing and fall short of their potential.
Keeping Your Family a Priority
Balancing pastoral duties and family life can be challenging, as both demand time and attention. To keep your family a priority, establish boundaries like designating an untouchable family night, continuing to date your spouse, and being fully present during family moments. Engage with your children when they want to talk, even at unexpected times, and communicate clearly with both your family and church leadership. Thoughtful planning and intentional choices can help you thrive in both your pastoral role and family life.
Fostering Unity Through Common Purpose in Your Staff - Part 1
Transitioning from business to church or non-profit work highlights the challenge of balancing measurable outcomes with less quantifiable goals like spiritual growth. Unity in these environments comes from a shared mission of making a positive impact, reinforced by clear communication and collaboration.
The Worship Pastor: More Than Just a Good Musician - Part 2
A worship pastor serves by guiding the congregation in worship through music, prayers, and Scripture, ensuring the service aligns with the gospel message. Their role extends beyond leading songs, as they foster spiritual connection and help create an environment for encountering God.
The Worship Pastor: More Than Just a Good Musician - Part 1
A worship pastor's role goes far beyond leading music; it involves shaping theology through song and shepherding the congregation into deeper worship. By selecting songs rooted in sound doctrine and caring for their team spiritually, worship pastors play a critical role in both the musical and pastoral life of the church.
Humility in Leadership
Humility is a critical and often overlooked quality in leadership, both in secular and faith-based contexts. True leaders know their limitations, are willing to admit when they are wrong, and put others’ interests above their own. Developing humility is essential for leading effectively and fostering growth in both personal and organizational success.
True Wealth
Tom reminded me that we are wealthy, not just spiritually but also materially. Despite losing a pig, he viewed his ability to raise animals and provide for his family as a sign of true wealth, emphasizing that knowing Jesus makes us truly rich.
The Spiritual Life of a Pastor
The role of a pastor often entails balancing the demands of message preparation with the need for personal spiritual growth. To prevent your spiritual life from stagnating, it is essential to cultivate your own practices and avoid comparing your journey to that of others; focus instead on methods that resonate with you and foster a genuine relationship with Christ.
The Executive Pastor: More Than a Task Manager
At its core, the Executive Pastor’s role is not just about managing tasks but leading people, both spiritually and practically…
The Least of These
John's inquiry, rooted in doubt despite his connection to Jesus, reveals the complexities of faith even among family. Jesus' response, filled with imagery and examples, encourages deeper contemplation rather than a simple affirmation, reflecting His teaching approach that guides listeners to uncover truth independently.
Dealing with Depression as a Believer
My story is increasingly common in the world today, yet often remains unspoken. Statistics indicate that someone you know closely may be grappling with depression, and the pressure to maintain a facade of being "okay" can lead to isolation for those who struggle.
Depression and anxiety are not a reflection of one's faith; they are genuine experiences rooted in the brokenness of
We Build
In the face of criticism and rejection, many artists persevered, driven by an intrinsic need to create. This resilience serves as a powerful reminder that the act of building, whether through art or other endeavors, often triumphs over external validation.
The Value of Rest
The biblical concept of Sabbath, introduced in Genesis, highlights the importance of rest as part of God’s design for humanity. Just as God rested after creation, we too are called to practice intentional rest, trusting in Him rather than striving on our own, as a vital part of spiritual and physical well-being.
Building with Purpose: Why Vision Matters More Than Facilities in Church Growth
While new buildings can address practical needs, they cannot fix a church’s vision problem. A clear, compelling mission must be the foundation of any building project, as facilities alone won't sustain growth or solve deeper issues.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Brian Hatcher’s Story
The feelings of depression took more control and it wasn’t that people didn’t care, but I grew to believe that I wasn’t worthy of any of it. I believed their feelings weren’t real.
The Treasure of Your Life
Our true treasures in life are revealed through how we spend our time, attention, and presence. What we value most shapes our hearts and influences the world around us.
Preserving Religious Liberty in Our Public Schools
Students in public schools have the right to pray, express religious beliefs, and wear religious symbols, while schools must ensure equal access and provide accommodations for religious practices. Teachers remain neutral during school hours but can express personal beliefs outside of work.