Why Your Church Needs Conflict (Part 2)
Many us of don’t like conflict (I don’t) and sometimes go to great lengths to avoid dealing with it. Sweeping conflict under the rug can turn tiny issues into big ones and rob us of opportunities to learn and … Continued
Why Your Church Needs Conflict (Part 1)
“Relational conflict is what the Bible calls sin,” reads a discipling manual our consulting team came across at one church. That’s pretty clear, isn’t it? But there’s a basic problem with this statement: It’s wrong. While sin does, of … Continued
The Family with the Strange Habit
It all began long ago in a city far away. This family–the one with the strange habit–was not just a mom and a dad and a few kids. They had relatives living all over town. And, like other families … Continued
Doubt Boldy
“Do you just think there’s a God or do you know?” my pastor shouted. “I don’t THINK; I KNOW!” The preacher kept working up the crowd until almost every hand was in the air, agreeing that they had no … Continued
The Bible and the Painting That Came to Life
I love the Bible. It amazes me how some preachers and teachers can take the most exciting book ever and make it boring. Making the Bible boring ought to be a crime. Not that I’ve always felt this … Continued
Confession of a Frustrated Pastor
Sometimes I get frustrated with people I shepherd. I sometimes get frustrated when people are complacent about their sin that is destroying them and hurting the people they love. I sometimes get frustrated when people get stuck—when they lose … Continued
The Most Dangerous People in the Church
A few years ago, Jack and Rosa* drove to another state for three days of intensive marriage counseling. After they got home, Robin, a woman from their church, asked Rosa how the trip had gone. “One of the most … Continued
The Most Important Ability
Roy* is a Pied Piper to college-age guys who’ve never had a strong, healthy man in their lives. They feel safe with him. But he also shoots straight, telling them what they need to hear even when it’s hard. … 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