The Hard Work of Healing
“O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed” (Jer. 17:14 NLT). I was in a dark, dark place, almost overwhelmed with emotional pain, reeling from the most devastating crisis of my life. I felt like I … Continued
30 Minutes to Inner Peace
Feeling stressed? Overwhelmed? Confused? Try starting your day with this simple guide for morning prayer. 1. Be still. “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10, KJV) Quiet yourself in God’s presence. You may want to … Continued
When Your Cup Is Empty
About a month ago I woke up feeling so overwhelmed that I told my wife, “I don’t want to talk to anyone I know today except you.” I notified my staff that I would not be in the office … Continued
All Hours Are Not Created Equal
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Eccl. 3:1, ESV). We all have an equal number of hours in our day, but not all hours are created equal. I am … Continued
To Accomplish More, Do Less
I once led a workshop called, “When You Have More Slots than Workers.” The room had standing room only. Before beginning my presentation, I asked each person to answer the question: “Why do you think churches often have more slots … Continued
Why I Changed How I Pray
I’ve been tired a lot lately. After an illness last year that involved a couple of surgeries, I’m feeling stronger, but nowhere close to being able to work full-time again. For weeks, my number one prayer request was for … Continued
He Restores My Soul
In the aftermath of the most devastating trauma of my life, my days were buried under an oppressive, raw pain, with no end in sight. I could not even imagine a future worth living. Each morning when I woke … Continued
Frazzled by Interruptions
First thing in the morning, I eagerly tackle my big project. I am in the zone, creative juices flowing! A half hour in, I get an exciting email. Ooh! This will just take 10 minutes! While answering the email, I … Continued
Beating Ministry Fatigue–Part 2
Last week’s blog suggested tracking which activities give you energy and which drain your energy, then spending at least 80% of your time on energy-giving activities. It’s just as important to be aware of how the people you spend … Continued
Beating Ministry Fatigue–Part 1
In ministry, three budgets are crucial. Two are familiar. The third most of us rarely, if ever, think about. We know about managing money. A good church budget fully funds our top ministry priorities, exercises good stewardship, and empowers … Continued