Have you thought of all the benefits in your life that came from others before you? Consider the city you live in, the country you’re a part of, and possibly the church you attend. Consider the sacrifices of those who have fought for freedom, worked hard to provide for you as you grew up, and … Read more
The ministry whirlwind is a reality. Priorities can shift in a matter of moments when serving people in church ministry. The seasons can fly by and it’s not uncommon for the mission to become swamped or at very least, fuzzy. There are lots of good people serving faithfully each day but may not see the … Read more
Books about finances and money are always good reminders. I recently read The Automatic Millionaire by David Bach. This older book doesn’t have the most up-to-date tricks and tips, but the principles are good. I’m not a financial planner – at all – but I do have thoughts about the relationship we have with our … Read more
Suits for many modern preachers have become obsolete. Overhead projectors were once used by churches, Short choruses from the 1980’s are almost non-existent and many people don’t know the definition of a hymnal. Colors have changed in church buildings. Weddings are often held outside the church. Styles will always come and go. However, some things … Read more
August is a perfect window of time to make some lasting connections and build momentum for a new season of student ministry in your church. Here are eight things you can try in August to boost your ministry. Plan Your School Year Calendar Get the school calendar (or at least the fall) calendar finished or, … Read more
Social capital is more about belonging than belongings. The world seems to be going back to this idea. And in cases where things in our world are going terribly downhill, a stronger social connection may be the cure. We talk about “social media” connections, but statistic after statistic indicates that loneliness and disconnect are stronger … Read more
Ministries, families, churches, and businesses have been ruined by the close examination of their leaders’ inner lives. As Kevin Harney writes in his book, Leadership From The Inside Out, you need someone who can check your back. It’s like having skin troubles. Those who are prone to them wear sunscreen, hats and long sleeves; and … Read more
Motivation is central to the work of the church. Christians are motivated out of love (1 Cor 16:14), out of thankfulness (Eph. 5:20), out of calling (Matthew 28:19) and from future promises (Heb. 11:24-26). We’re thankful for God’s rich mercy (Eph. 2:4) and that is enough to motivate us to serve Jesus faithfully. I’m thankful … Read more
Two close boyhood friends grew up and went their separate ways. One became a humble monk, while the other became a rich and powerful minister to the king. Years later they meet. As they catch up, the king’s minister, in his fine robes, takes pity on the thin and shabby monk. Seeking to help, he … Read more
I was first invited to serve when student ministry was called youth group and worship songs were “fast or slow” songs. Our youth pastor asked me to play guitar and lead music during youth group. When I was a sophomore in high school, he gave me a note: “Tim, I will be gone this week. … Read more