Calling vs. Vocation: A Crucial Distinction for Church Leaders
In ministry, it’s easy to confuse our calling with our vocation, seeing them as one and the same. But calling goes beyond the duties we perform; it’s rooted in our relationship with Christ and our identity in Him. When we prioritize abiding in Christ, our work becomes an overflow of that connection, enriching our lives and our ministries with genuine purpose and balance.
The Peace Out There
True peace isn’t found in external circumstances but entirely in God. While we may seek peace in relationships, situations, or the world around us, the lasting peace that Jesus offers is an inward gift, independent of what’s happening out there (Jn. 16:33; Col. 3:15). As followers of Christ, we’re called to embrace and share this peace, resting in its abundance within us.
Making Marriage Work
While the wedding day may be picture-perfect, a lasting marriage takes continuous, intentional effort. By investing in quality time, openly communicating, and supporting each other emotionally, couples can build a strong foundation and embrace the beautiful, ongoing journey of marriage as a true gift from God.
Multiplying Leadership by Letting Go: The Discipleship of Delegation
As pastors and church leaders, our tendency to cling to control can hinder discipleship by preventing others from growing into their own ministry roles. True delegation—like Jesus modeled—means empowering others through guidance and support, fostering a sustainable church that can carry the mission forward for generations.
Great Power
Believers carry a greater power within them, as 1 John 4:4 assures, even amid a world resistant to truth. Our responsibility is to share this eternal truth with patience and wisdom, bringing light to those around us despite competing voices.
Dealing with Grief During the Holidays
The holiday season can be a particularly challenging time when navigating the loss of a loved one. As Brian Hatcher shares, grief is a natural and profound part of the healing process, and it’s okay to let ourselves mourn deeply, just as Jesus did when He wept for His friend Lazarus. During this season, it’s essential to let the tears flow, share memories, and lean on loved ones rather than isolating ourselves. Embracing a “new normal” can help bring healing. By honoring past memories and creating new ones, we can find ways to experience both grief and the quiet joy of being with family and friends amidst the pain.
Multiplying Church Ministry in Your Church
The church is most alive when every member uses their unique gifts to contribute to its mission, as Paul emphasized to the church in Ephesus. Recognizing our individual limits, entrusting ministry to faithful people, giving them space to lead, and following up for growth all contribute to a thriving church body. When ministry is shared, the church’s impact is multiplied, beautifully reflecting God’s design for His people to carry out His mission together.
Death in Exile
Fethullah Gulen, an exiled Islamic cleric in Pennsylvania and outspoken critic of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, passed away after years in exile. Once allies, Gulen and Erdogan became fierce adversaries, with Gulen accused—though he denied involvement—of supporting a 2006 coup attempt against Erdogan. His death leaves a void for his followers, but as believers, we recognize that only the love of Jesus Christ can fill the deepest void and offer true freedom (Jn. 8:32, Jn. 14:6).
And the Winner is . . .
The election results are in, and former President Donald Trump is set to become the 47th President of the United States. As the nation reacts to this outcome and the shifts in power within the Senate and House, one thing remains unwavering for Jesus followers: our ultimate mission. Regardless of the political landscape, we are reminded of our calling to go into all the world, declare the Gospel, and seek the peace and prosperity of our communities (Jer. 29:5-7), living from the certainty that God is still on the throne (Ps. 47:8).
The Force of Will
When facing unimaginable trials, Jesus didn’t rely on the force of His will but instead prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Lk. 22:42). In our own challenges, may we find strength in following His example of surrender.
Dealing with Disappointment
When disappointment strikes, it’s easy to let doubt and discouragement cloud our faith. However, by shifting our perspective and trusting God’s plan, we can transform these moments into opportunities for growth, knowing that He uses even the hard times to shape and guide us.
When Everything is Lost
In moments of immense loss and despair, both Job and David offer remarkable declarations of trust and praise to God. Despite having every reason to cry out for deliverance, their faith was rooted not in what God had given or taken away, but in who He is. Even when everything seems lost, we are reminded that the greatness of God far exceeds the circumstances of this world—His goodness remains, and we can still declare, "The name of the Lord be praised."
Heaven's Gaze
In this edition of The Equipped, we reflect on the most agonizing moment of Jesus' crucifixion—when He cried out in despair, feeling abandoned by His Father. Though the physical suffering was immense, it was the turning away of God the Father that caused Jesus the deepest pain. Yet, this unimaginable moment of abandonment was motivated by an even greater love: God's love for you. As John 3:16 reminds us, the Father turned His gaze from His beloved Son so He could turn it toward us, offering us eternal life and adoption into His family.
Pastors: Learn to Lament
Grieving is essential to spiritual health, yet often overlooked, especially for pastors. Unresolved grief can lead to emotional, physical, and spiritual harm, impacting every aspect of life. By expressing grief healthily—through trusted relationships, recognizing a new normal, and seeking professional help when needed—pastors can navigate their sorrow and grow deeper in their spiritual journey.
God Laughs
As the world conspires and nations plot, Psalm 2 reminds us that God laughs, knowing His Kingdom is already established and unshakable. While the turmoil of this world may feel overwhelming, we can take comfort in knowing that God’s King is already on His throne, and our ultimate security lies in His eternal Kingdom.
Responding to Halloween as a Believer
As fall approaches and Halloween nears, many churches and believers wrestle with how to respond. Whether rejecting, countering, accepting, or engaging with the holiday, there are biblical perspectives to support each approach. Halloween offers a unique opportunity for outreach, with neighbors coming directly to your doorstep—a chance to connect and potentially create pathways back to the church.
Discipleship: The Ministry of the Church, Not Just a Ministry in the Church
Explore the vital role of discipleship in the church. Too often, discipleship is treated as just another ministry option, but it is actually the core mission of the church. A disciple-making church goes beyond hosting events, focusing instead on transforming lives by equipping believers to engage deeply with Scripture, build authentic relationships, and live missionally. Discipleship isn’t a Sunday-only activity—it’s a seven-day calling. At Replicate, we help churches shift their focus from managing programs to fulfilling Jesus’ command to make disciples.
One
In a world filled with distractions and competing demands for our attention, the message remains clear: there is only one God, and He is jealous for our worship. Despite the many altars we may face—whether in business, relationships, or politics—He alone calls us to devote our lives fully to Him.
Fostering Unity Through Common Purpose in Your Staff - Part 2
Fostering unity in churches and non-profits requires servant leadership and celebrating team successes. Leaders who prioritize service and acknowledge team achievements create a culture of care, strengthening the collective commitment to the organization's mission.
What's Your Spiritual Narrative
Spiritual growth often starts with behavior, but God calls us to something deeper—wholeness in Christ. Instead of living in fear, trying to earn God's approval, we are meant to trust His redemptive work, recognizing that we are complete in Him and growing spiritually through His transformation of our hearts.