We live in a world that is becoming increasingly divided, and at the same time more heated in those differences than ever before. As Christians, with so much in common, why do we spend so much energy debating our differences. Could it be that we are to model for the rest of the world the right way to treat each … Read More
For 22 years Joseph had been in Egypt while his brothers lived daily with the lie they had propagated about his death. For that same time Joseph’s father believed him to be dead, and never stopped mourning for his son. You would have thought that such a restoration would be a great celebration. I’m sure it was, but it was … Read More
Each of us has authority figures we struggle with. If you don’t have one now, you will sooner or later. What do we do in those situations? We know its easy to complain, or resist, but is that what’s best? I first met Dr. Robert Smith when I was having my own struggle with authority. I had been told how … Read More
James gave some of the best advice ever on communication when he penned, Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God (James 1:19-20) This is especially necessary in our family relationships. The author is unknown, but I have found the simple acrostic ladder to be helpful … Read More
Peace-making is rarely confused with peace-breaking, but it is often confused with peace-keeping. When I first traveled to Bosnia in 2001 on a humanitarian aid effort I got a good look at peace-keeping. The United Nations had divided up the land between the Bosnians and Serbians. Without a doubt there were heinous crimes committed during their civil war. There had not been an … Read More
When it comes to understanding ministry there is no limit to what you can find. Walk into any Christian bookstore and you will find more publications on ministry than you can possibly count. There are different means, different ways, different ends, different groups, and different publishers. Ministry in the 21st century is like the ultimate all-you-can-eat buffet. Pick and choose … Read More
For many of us waiting is one of the hardest lessons to learn. I have discovered that one of the best ways to wait is to ask the question: âLord, what are you teaching me through this?â We all have a tendency to think of Godâs teaching lessons as being for someone else. Like the first humans in the garden of Eden … Read More
If you have pastored at the same place for any length of time you know firsthand some of the hardships in ministry. The unexpected criticism. The weariness of soul. Trying to serve faithfully when your heart may not be in it. Investing countless hours in a life only to have them turn their back on the Lord.  I call those forks in … Read More
We live in a day and age where there is a growing distrust in anyone who claims to be leader or CEO. Every news release seems to reflect that the major leaders in our world care only for those who work for them when they might personally benefit in someway. One writer said it this way, âWe live in an … Read More
