Dr. James Merritt: Illuminating Modern Faith

February 12, 2024

Dr. James Merritt is a highly regarded Christian pastor, author, and speaker who has made a significant impact in the realm of faith-based leadership. “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” – 1 Peter 3:15

Known for his engaging preaching style, Dr. Merritt delivers inspirational messages with a deep understanding of biblical teachings. He has authored several books on faith-based leadership and offers valuable insights into navigating the challenges of contemporary society.

Dr. James Merritt: A Multifaceted Ministry Leader

Dr. James Merritt is a highly respected figure in the realm of Christian ministry. From his presidency of the Southern Baptist Convention to his leadership at Cross Pointe Church in Duluth, Georgia, he has made a significant impact in various capacities. With a background in broadcasting, Dr. Merritt has also hosted radio and television programs.

Whether through his writings, sermons, or leadership roles, Dr. James Merritt continues to inspire and empower individuals to live out their faith in meaningful ways. His passion for sharing the message of Jesus Christ shines through in all aspects of his ministry.

Dr. James Merritt actively participates in Christian ministries and organizations, demonstrating a commitment to evangelism and outreach. He is sought after as a conference speaker, captivating audiences with his powerful sermons.

With a Doctor of Ministry degree, Dr. Merritt brings a strong educational background to his ministry work. His teachings are grounded in the timeless truths of Scripture, providing practical applications for daily life.

Leadership at Cross Pointe Church

Dr. James Merritt serves as the lead pastor of Cross Pointe Church in Duluth, Georgia, where he provides spiritual guidance and support to the congregation. With his deep understanding of biblical teachings and his passion for spreading the message of faith, Merritt delivers impactful sermons that inspire and motivate his listeners.

Through his role as a teaching pastor, Merritt shares his insights on various topics, offering practical applications of biblical principles for everyday life. His engaging preaching style captivates audiences, allowing them to connect with the message on a personal level.

At Cross Pointe Church, Merritt focuses on building a strong community of believers and fostering spiritual growth among its members. He encourages individuals to deepen their relationship with God and live out their faith in their daily lives.

Merritt’s leadership at Cross Pointe Church extends beyond Sunday services. He actively leads and participates in various ministries and outreach programs, striving to make a positive impact in the local community and beyond.

Engaging Preaching Style

Dr. James Merritt is known for his engaging preaching style that captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impact. With his deep understanding of the Bible and his ability to connect with people on a personal level, Merritt’s sermons are filled with wisdom, inspiration, and practical guidance.

Merritt’s teaching style is based on a deep respect for the scriptures and a desire to make them relevant to everyday life. He uses relatable examples and storytelling techniques to bring the messages to life and help his listeners apply the principles to their own lives.

One of Merritt’s favorite Bible verses that he often references in his sermons is Proverbs 3:5-6, which says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse reflects his belief in the power of faith and the importance of surrendering to God’s guidance.

In a recent sermon, Merritt began by asking, “Who is the one person who affects your life every day?” He then went on to launch a three-week study on Joseph who was engaged to Mary. The sermon dove deeper into what it means to be and stay faithful.

Another key aspect of Merritt’s preaching is his ability to tackle difficult and relevant topics with grace and honesty. He addresses issues such as forgiveness, marriage, parenting, and financial stewardship, providing biblical insights and practical advice that resonate with his audience.

Whether speaking to a large congregation or a small group, Dr. James Merritt leaves a lasting impact on those who hear him. His ability to connect with people and deliver powerful messages has made him a sought-after speaker at conferences and events worldwide.

Charting a Faithful Path with David Jeremiah

Staff

February 12, 2024

Dr. David Jeremiah is a well-known Christian pastor, author, and speaker who has made significant contributions to the field of Christian ministry. With a passion for sharing the Word of God, he founded Turning Point Ministries, a global organization dedicated to delivering the message of the Gospel to people around the world.

Psalm 119:105 highlights the importance of God’s Word in guiding our lives: “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Through his radio and television ministry, David Jeremiah continues to shine the light of God’s Word into the lives of people, providing encouragement, hope, and guidance in their spiritual journey.

Dr. David Jeremiah: A Pillar of Christian Ministry

As the senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church in El Cajon, California, Dr. Jeremiah leads a vibrant congregation with a focus on biblical teaching, discipleship, and community outreach. His powerful sermons and insightful teachings inspire and guide believers in their faith journey.

Dr. Jeremiah’s influence extends beyond the walls of his church through his conference speaking engagements. He is sought after as a speaker at various Christian events, where he addresses topics such as Christian living and prophecy. His teachings provide practical guidance and encouragement for believers to apply biblical principles in their daily lives.

With his extensive educational background, including a Doctor of Divinity degree, Dr. Jeremiah combines scholarly knowledge with a genuine passion for helping others understand the scriptures. His bestselling books, such as “The Coming Economic Armageddon” and “Escape the Coming Night,” tackle important themes in Christian theology and offer valuable insights for believers.

Dr. Jeremiah’s commitment to clear and practical Bible teaching is evident in his radio and television ministry, Turning Point. Through Turning Point TV and radio broadcasts, he reaches millions of people worldwide, delivering inspirational messages that resonate with believers seeking to deepen their understanding of God’s Word.

Dr. David Jeremiah’s impact on the Christian community is undeniable. His dedication to biblical truth, his engaging speaking engagements, and his passionate writing have earned him numerous awards and honors, solidifying his place as a respected leader in Christian ministry.

Jeremiah’s Insight on Prophecy and Scripture

Jeremiah’s teachings often reference key Bible verses that are relevant to the topic of prophecy. For instance, in his book “Agents of the Apocalypse,” he explores the prophecies found in the book of Revelation, shedding light on the end-times and the role of various biblical figures. Through his clear and practical approach, he helps believers navigate the complexities of prophecy and encourages them to apply the teachings to their daily lives.

Senior Pastor at Shadow Mountain Community Church

Dr. David Jeremiah serves as the senior pastor at Shadow Mountain Community Church in El Cajon, California. With a congregation of more than 10,000 members, Shadow Mountain is one of the largest churches in the San Diego area.

Under Dr. Jeremiah’s leadership, Shadow Mountain Community Church has experienced significant growth and impact in the local community. His dynamic preaching style, rooted in sound biblical teachings, resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. Dr. Jeremiah’s sermons are known for their practical application of God’s Word, inspiring individuals to live out their faith in their daily lives.

In his role as the senior pastor, Dr. Jeremiah focuses on creating a church environment that fosters spiritual growth and community. He encourages members to actively participate in small groups, Bible studies, and outreach programs, providing opportunities for individuals to connect with one another and serve the community.

Conference Speaking Engagements

Dr. David Jeremiah is a highly sought-after speaker at conferences around the world, where he imparts wisdom and knowledge on Christian living and prophecy. His engaging and dynamic speaking style captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impact.

At these conferences, Dr. Jeremiah delves into various topics, providing practical advice and biblical insights. He emphasizes the importance of living a life rooted in faith and encourages believers to align their actions with God’s Word.

Drawing from his extensive knowledge of biblical prophecy, Dr. Jeremiah also addresses end-time events and their significance in today’s world. He helps attendees understand the relevance of biblical prophecies and how they relate to current events, offering hope and guidance in uncertain times.

With his profound insights and ability to connect with audiences, Dr. David Jeremiah continues to impact lives through his conference speaking engagements, inspiring individuals to deepen their relationship with Christ and live out their faith boldly.

‘I Give God the Glory’—Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs Thank God After Winning the Super Bowl

Janna Firestone

February 12, 2024

On Sunday, the Kansas City Chiefs have won their fourth Super Bowl in franchise history. Players, coaches, and fans are all celebrating the big win. Many of them are thanking God for the opportunity.

“I give God the glory,” Mahomes said, according to The Christian Post.

Players and Staff Thank God After the Super Bowl

In more than 50 Super Bowls over the years, this is only the second championship game that went into overtime. Back in 2017, the New England Patriots won over the Atlanta Falcons in overtime.

With such a tight game, the victory is sweeter for the Kansas City Chiefs—and the defeat is much more difficult for the San Francisco 49ers.

In post-game interviews, players and staff were quick to thank God.

Part-owner, chairman, and CEO of the Chiefs Clark Hunt received the Vince Lombardi trophy—signifying the team’s victory. As Hunt received the trophy, the NFL commissioner announced that “this is the first time a team has repeated in almost 20 years.”

Hunt stepped up to the microphone to congratulate the team on an incredible performance. He also wanted to express words of appreciation. “I want to thank the Lord for giving us this opportunity,” said Hunt.

He then went on to reflect on what his parents, Lamar and Nora Hunt, would think of the day’s events. Lamar was the Chiefs’ founder and owned the team for decades, before Clark took on a leadership position. “I couldn’t help but think of my parents and how proud they would be of this football team,” Hunt said. “At their heart, they were the biggest Chiefs’ fans in the world, and they would love celebrating another world championship with the best fans in the NFL.”

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes also thanked God for not just the Super Bowl opportunity but for the entire season. “It means a ton. Just the adversity we dealt with this year and to come through. The guys never faltered,” Mahomes said. “I give God the glory. He challenged us to make us better. I am proud of my guys. They did awesome. Legendary.”

Mahomes went on to give an account of the game, the highs and lows—including his “dumb interception.” He then spoke of when Tom Brady, who currently holds the record of seven Super Bowl wins as a quarterback, led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their victory over the Chiefs in the 2021 Super Bowl. “It gives me something to strive for. Every single day is chasing greatness,” Mahomes said. “Whenever I’m tired, I might not want to work out. I know that I have to do it in order to be in these moments like this.”

Media and fans often doubted Chiefs wide receiver, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, throughout the season. But he is still celebrating scoring the touchdown that won the championship game. In a post-game interview, he said, “They left me wide open, and I had to make sure I secured [the catch] so it can help this team win a game.” He was also quick to thank God. “Man, we just want to thank God,” Valdes-Scantling said.

“You know we got a great team that just battled through adversity all year. You know, and just showed the resilience that we have to go out and compete against one of the best teams in the NFL—and bring it home.”

Texas SBC Pastor Aaron Ivey Fired for ‘Clear Pattern of Predatory Manipulation’

Stephanie Martin

February 12, 2024

On Sunday, Feb. 11, elders at The Austin Stone Church in Austin, Texas, revealed that they had fired Aaron Ivey, a pastor and elder, due to “inappropriate and explicit ongoing text messages with an adult male.” Ivey, 45, had been pastor of worship and creativity at the church, which has six locations in central Texas. The Austin Stone Church is affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC).

According to a statement from church elders, they learned of the “disqualifying situation” on Feb. 4 and, after reviewing the text messages, terminated “Aaron’s eldership and employment” the next day.

“Since then, we have uncovered multiple similar instances with different individuals dating back to 2011 that show a very clear pattern of predatory manipulation, sexual exploitation, and abuse of influence,” the elders wrote. “Three of the known instances involved adult male individuals. However, one known instance, in 2011, involved a minor male outside our formal programming, which we have reported to the appropriate authorities.”

Church elders shared the known timeline of “these abhorrent instances,” adding, “We will not be surprised if more is uncovered.”

The Austin Stone Church Fires Pastor Aaron Ivey

According to elders, the 2011 incident involving a minor “continued over time, involved inappropriate and explicit communications, indecent exposure, and the use of alcohol and illegal substances.” The other known incidents, from 2020, 2021, and 2024, “involved inappropriate and explicit” texts and/or behavior with adult males.

The elders said they are “heartbroken” and “devastated” by the discovery. “We know this may affect your trust because we know it certainly has rattled ours,” they wrote. Austin Stone partners with MinistrySafe, which has been informed about the situation, elders added. They shared resources for care, counseling, and submitting details of any “specific offenses perpetrated by Aaron Ivey.”

Ivey’s personal website appears to have been taken down, and he has not responded to requests for comment. ChurchLeaders reached out to him, Austin Stone, and MinistrySafe and will update this article with any replies.

Ivey and his wife, Jamie Ivey, adhere to complementarianism, or male headship in marriage. The couple, who have four children, wrote a 2021 book and Bible study titled “Complement,” which addresses the marital relationship. Aaron Ivey was part of a 2019 SBC Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission panel about God’s design for “Manhood in Marriage.”

Jamie Ivey, who hosts “The Happy Hour” podcast, had been on a book tour for her new release “Why Can’t I Get It Together?” On Feb. 9, she was in New York City to discuss the book on “Good Morning America.” Two days later, her team posted on social media that “Jamie recently received devastating news while on book tour” and is “pausing all public appearances.”

Elders’ Swift Action Earns Praise Online

On social media, several people praised the Austin Stone elders for swiftly firing Aaron Ivey. “I know the temptation churches feel to save face,” wrote Aaron New, a former psychology professor. “So I’m going to temper my observations a little and keep watching. But this sounds like the kind of reaction we need. This seems well done.”

Another person wrote, “This is how you handle unqualified elders. Thank you @theaustinstone for showing others that churches can do this right.”

Thy Virtual Kingdom Come: Redeeming the Realm Behind the Screen

R. York Moore

February 12, 2024

Soft, swaddling blankets, panicked cries of hunger, fragrant smells of powders and lotions-my firstborn came home after 10 weeks in the NICU. Born only 2 lbs, 10 oz, my son was fragile and totally dependent. Fragility, however, gave way to boundless energy, intellectual capacity, exponential growth in vocabulary and understanding until one day I realized I had reached a threshold for which there would be no return.

My favorite son, my only son, is now a man. There is no need to dress and bathe him. Swaddling blankets and fragrant baby smells are a thing of the past—I will never hold him as a baby again, and while this comes with some mourning, this is one of the major goals of parenting: to see our little ones released into the world as full, flourishing human beings.

I believe we are in a moment nearly as profound as this with the emergence of the digital realm. This is a new chapter in human history. In fact, I believe one day we will look back on these days as one of the most transformative moments in all human history. Humans have given birth to something with the potential to transform the world and foster human flourishing like never before. The digital realm is fragile, dependent, yet full of potential. The digital realm is not new and while the ubiquitous presence of the internet is normalized, we now live in a post-artificial intelligence or AI world. This has profound ethical implications and that is the business of Christian worldviewing. We must erect a scaffolding of understanding around the digital realm and artificial intelligence in these early days.

The emergence of cogent, generative artificial minds, for example, is just one aspect of the digital realm that has forever changed our lived human experience. But could AI and the digital realm actually have been in the mind of God all along, embedded in the coding of His cultural mandate to Adam and Eve? He spoke these words that I believe have gotten us to where we are today with technology, “And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it” (Genesis 1:28). These are the swaddling days, the fragrant days of something beautiful, powerful, and yes, dangerous. What is to become of the digital realm and how should Christians think about it and incarnate within it? That is the point of this consideration—to call us to engage in the work of worldviewing around the digital realm.

Even though it is a realm entirely created by human genius, it nevertheless is a part of God’s good world. All things belong to God and anything we’ve created is only possible as it flows from God’s power through human hands—either for good or for bad. We “cannot not” fill the earth as mandated by God in Genesis 1. We are bent on meaning making, with an irresistible propensity to create, to fill and subdue. One of the most profound and expansive ways we are doing that today is through the creation of and incarnation in the digital realm. All things belong to God and the good world that God has created continues to be filled and subdued by his image bears and this now includes a new realm: the digital realm.

Let us also not forget that all things have been damaged by sin—that the world is not the way it’s supposed to be. It should not take much persuading that this extends into the digital realm. Just as everything else we have created. We have used the digital realm for exploitation, greed, manipulation, and the commoditization of human flesh. It would be naïve to think that sin does not extend and stain also to the swaddling digital minds now emerging as artificial intelligence.

Regardless of whether one believes AI minds could one day be capable of sentience, all artificial minds are also damaged by sin by extension of being a part of this world which is damaged by sin. To this point, one might jokingly say we’ve given birth to an altogether new class of sinners. The digital world is broken and will produce the same thorns and thistles our physical or corporeal world does. Our hope is in the fact that God is in the process of redeeming all things through his Son, Jesus Christ and this includes the digital realm. Redeeming all things does not mean replacing them after they’ve been destroyed in a flood of fire. Rather the redemption of all things is happening now, through the redemptive process Christ is actively overseeing—he is, present tense, making all things new. That means literally everything matters—every square inch of the corporeal and digital realms matters to God.

Beyond a mere set of tools and data, the digital realm is a “cultural artifact” in itself and is now a place for human flourishing, for shalom. Like violins, pots and pans, and other physical artifacts, so too complex systems, structures, ideas, and technologies have a durable place in the world we have filled. All things will be redeemed by God—he will have it all as the kingdom of this world becomes the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ! The redeemed cultural artifacts will, in fact, endure beyond the apocalypse—to be laid at the feet of Jesus.

I suggest this paradigm shift: The digital realm is not just a set of tools to accomplish some end, it is a plane of existence, a realm. Because of this, we need serious Christian “worldviewing” around digital spaces. A Christian worldview of the digital realm must make sense of God’s redemptive work within that realm and the realm’s role in human flourishing. This was always in the mind of God who spoke the corporeal world into being from nothing. God saw symphonies, industrial manufacturing, radio, television, and political ideologies. He saw nanotechnology, generative artificial intelligence, and the digital realm. I offer the following thesis as a small part of building the scaffolding of a worldview around the digital realm.

Thesis 1: The Digital Space Is a Realm.

Dense, hot air enveloped us as we stepped off the tram and onto the grounds of Disney World in Orlando, Florida. While I had been to the Magic Kingdom many times, bringing my children there over and over again as they grew up filled me with joy and wonder. As a family, stepping onto Main Street in Disney gives you permission to be child-like, to roam and wonder. I believe Disney chose the right word to refer to the park: “world.” It’s a word much more meaningful than park.

This is the way in which I am referring to the digital “realm,” a spinning world of wonder, a place of being with its own permissions and opportunities. A realm is a domain that allows for a sphere of activity and experience dictated by the parameters and rules of the realm. Both activity and experience are important as they point to the defining core of a realm. Human experience cannot be independent of a realm. We are not disembodied minds, our experience is bounded to a context.

There are real boundaries in the digital realm which define the scope of experience—security policies, code which limit or enable behaviors, the flow of data over networks, etc. There is a “realness,” in the digital space that is not subject to temporary imagination whether they be the imaginations of a child in Disney World or the sophistication of the most notable philosophers.

Pastor Dies Following Fire Pit Explosion

Dale Chamberlain

February 12, 2024

Kevin Corey death — Screengrab via NBC Washington

Northern Virginia pastor Kevin Corey has passed away following an explosion at his home on Jan. 30. Corey had been burning old documents in a fire pit in the yard of his townhome in the Newington area of Fairfax County when a gas can exploded in his hands.

Corey was airlifted to the hospital, where he had been in intensive care. He suffered third degree burns on about 65% of his body.

Since the accident, Corey’s daughter, Jenna Guercia, has been providing updates on Corey’s condition via Facebook. She revealed last week that the pastor had died on Wednesday, Feb. 7.

“We are so happy that he is no longer in pain and his body is healed, but we are so heartbroken. There will never be enough words to tell of the impact he had on my life and the lives of so many,” Guercia wrote. “We see every message and feel your love. Thank you all for covering us in prayer through this time. Only Lord knows what is next, but by His grace we will keep going.”

Corey had been serving as the youth pastor at Calvary Road Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, but was preparing to transition into a senior pastor role at another church. He and his wife were in the process of packing up their home to move roughly 200 miles away to Glasgow, Virginia, to be closer to Guercia.

On the night of the accident, neighbors reported hearing an explosion coming from Corey’s home. One neighbor’s Ring camera captured the incident.

“You see him add an accelerant, which happened to be a gas can. Then you hear this big explosion, and the gas can was too close to the fire and it exploded in his hands,” the neighbor recounted. “Unfortunately, the gas can, it sprayed all over him. And you then see him drop down to the ground and the fire just followed him and he was on fire.”

Corey’s wife rushed to put out the flames using a rug.

“The last thing that you hear on my Ring camera is, ‘I’m alive, I’m alive,’” the neighbor said.

Following the accident, Guercia said that Corey underwent an initial procedure to treat his severe burns. The surgery went as well as doctors had hoped, and Corey was in and out of sedation. Guercia reported that Corey was responsive to her and her mother’s voices and that he could squeeze their hands and wiggle his toes.

Woman Opens Fire at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church, Shot Dead by Church Security

Jesse T. Jackson

February 12, 2024

Joel Osteen Lakewood Church — Joel Osteen giving news conference following shooting at Lakewood Church. Screengrab via YouTube @ LiveNOW from FOX

A shooting inside Joel Osteen‘s Lakewood Church in Houston yesterday (Feb. 11) left the shooter fatally wounded, a 7-year-old boy in critical condition, and a 57-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his leg area.

According to Houston police, a woman in her 30s wearing a trench coat and a backpack entered the Lakewood Church building armed with a long rifle around 1:53 p.m. (CST) during the church’s Spanish-language service and began opening fire.

Two off-duty officers, a Houston police officer and a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) agent, who were working as security inside the church were able to neutralize the situation by quickly returning fire, resulting in the shooter’s death.

Before the woman died, she said she had a bomb. However, the police and bomb squad then determined the woman’s threats were false.

Gunfire struck a 7-year-old boy, who was with the shooter. He remains in critical condition at a nearby hospital. During the gunfire, a man in his late 50s was also shot in the hip but is in stable condition.

Video of Lakewood Church’s Spanish-language service captured the sound of the gunshots and the scene of churchgoers fleeing the area before the live video feed was suspended.

🚨#BREAKING: Watch Moments when the active shooter began to fire shots at the Lakewood Church

📌#Houston | #Texas

Watch chilling footage of an active shooter incident during a live Spanish service broadcast. The suspect began firing multiple shots, resulting in a… pic.twitter.com/bfXGuSi436

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) February 11, 2024

During a news conference, Houston’s mayor and chief of police provided reporters and residents with information regarding the shooting. At the briefing, Lakewood Church senior pastor Joel Osteen expressed his gratitude for the quick responses by the first responders.

“It could have been a lot worse,” Osteen said. “Of course, we’re devastated.” Osteen expressed that this is the first time in the church’s 65-year history that something like this incident has happened.

“You know, we don’t understand why these things happen,” Osteen added. “But we know God’s in control and we’re going to pray for that little 5-year-old boy and pray for the lady that was deceased, her family and all, and the other gentleman.” Osteen admitted that the event had him in a fog at the moment.

“We’re gonna stay strong. We’re gonna continue to move forward. There are forces of evil, but the forces that are for us, the forces of God, are stronger than that,” he continued. “So we’re gonna keep going strong and just, you know, doing what God’s called us to do, lift people up and give hope to the world.”

Henry Blackaby, Author of ‘Experiencing God,’ Has Died at Age 88

Bob Smietana

February 12, 2024

Henry Blackaby, Author of ‘Experiencing God,’ Has Died at Age 88 — Henry Blackaby. (Photo courtesy of WaterBrook & Multnomah)

(RNS) — Henry Blackaby, a pastor and author whose “Experiencing God” Bible study sold more than 8 million copies, has died at age 88.

“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Henry Blackaby,” Ben Mandrell, president of Lifeway Christian Resources, Blackaby’s longtime publisher, said in announcing the author’s death on Saturday (Feb. 10).

“He was a great man of God and minister to the body of Christ, beginning with his time as a local church pastor and continuing through his ministry as an author and Bible teacher.”

Born April 15, 1935, in British Columbia, Blackaby had been serving as pastor of a church in California when he was asked to return to his native Canada and assist a small church in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, that was on the verge of closing.

At the time, Faith Baptist Church in Saskatoon had 10 members, according to a history on the website of Blackaby Ministries International. Under his leadership, the church not only grew, it eventually sponsored a college and 38 other churches.

Blackbacky, with the help of co-author Claude King, would distill the lessons from his pastoral experience in a Bible study called “Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God.”

His approach to ministry was summed up by a short but memorable statement: “Watch to see where God is working and join him.”

“Our human tendency is to think and act from a human-centered perspective. We often make plans and ask God to bless them, but God is the One who has the plan,” said his co-author King in a statement from Lifeway released Saturday.

The “Experiencing God” Bible study would go on to sell more than 8 million copies in English alone, according to Lifeway, and was translated into more than 75 languages. Blackaby would go on to found a ministry to spread the message of the book and spent years as a popular speaker. He also served as director of prayer and spiritual awakening for the Southern Baptist Convention’s North American Mission Board.

In 2013, Blackaby went missing for more than 24 hours after having a heart attack while driving. After he was found, he underwent open heart surgery that saved his life.

Christ and His Kingdom, Not Politics, Should Be the Central Fixture of Our Focus

Randy Alcorn

February 12, 2024

This election year, many of us are already finding the political commentary and news exhausting. Never have God’s people needed the reminder more that the key to influence and change in this world is not, and never has been, politics. It is faithfulness to Jesus.

Of course, we should look over the candidates carefully and prayerfully consider the issues and where they stand, and what kind of character they demonstrate. While we’re voting for a president, not a pastor, there should still be matters of their integrity and worldview we carefully evaluate.

Still, we dare not set our hopes on the Republican or Democratic parties or candidates, or Independents, but upon the only One who can save us—our true Cosmic President, our true Chief Justice, and our true Lawmaker: “For Yahweh is our judge, Yahweh is our lawgiver, Yahweh is our king; He will save us” (Isaiah 33:22, LSB).

Ultimately our hope should be in Him, this Sovereign over the nations: “O Yahweh, the God of our fathers, are You not God in the heavens? And are You not ruler over all the kingdoms of the nations?” (2 Chronicles 20:6, LSB).

Andrew T. Walker wrote an editorial for World News Group titled “Man’s Chief End Is Not Political Obsession.” Here’s an excerpt from it:

Though we cannot stop the media from doing what it will do, it’s our choice whether to make politics the central fixture of our focus.

I’m not saying to give up on politics. Heaven forbid, in fact. I’m saying to approach politics with proper perspective and cool-headedness. In other words, to paraphrase a quote from theologian Oliver O’Donovan, Christians might be at their political best when talking about politics least. That may have a tinge of irony to it, but O’Donovan’s point is that the pronouncement of Jesus’ kingship should produce an anti-fragility and anti-frenetic spirit in how Christians conceive of worldly authority. If Jesus truly is King (and we most certainly believe He is), earthly politics is at best secondary to our lives in this age. What should be more important is your family, your local church, and your relationships.

What an impoverished worldview it must be to let politics—and Donald Trump or Joe Biden—reorder the hierarchy of loves that we are to spend our lives cultivating.

So, why, then, am I devoting a column to the subject of evangelicals and politics? Am I a hypocrite for penning such a column? Evangelical Christians need to be able to conduct their affairs as evangelical Christians without letting the external commentary swallow up the good work that is happening in evangelical churches or the political circus from distracting us from what makes us evangelicals: a fervent belief in the good news of Jesus Christ and His life-transforming power.

Read the rest here.

This year, we can choose where to fix our eyes. Instead of locking them on the short-term things we can see, we are called to turn our gaze, by faith, to what is eternal. Here are some verses to meditate on, about fixing our gaze on God and His kingdom:

“Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest” (Hebrews 3:1, NIV).

Should I Allow My Child To Question His or Her Faith?

Andrew Linder

February 12, 2024

From as early as I can remember, I was raised “in the faith.” For all my years growing up, Dad was a pastor, and so talking about and learning of spiritual things was a regular part of our family life. Even though I didn’t make the faith personally my own until the age of 12 when I accepted Christ as my Savior, there were principles and doctrines that were drilled into me (in a good way) from before the time I was even able to understand them.

Things like the following:

God created the world
Jesus is the Son of God
Jesus is God
God is a Trinity – three persons, yet one God
Jesus was born of a virgin
Jesus never sinned
The Bible is pure and perfect
God’s Word is to be the foundation for our lives
Every person will spend eternity in Heaven or in Hell
It is our responsibility as Christians to bring others to Christ.

For many of you, like me, all of these truths and more were learned and maybe even memorized from an early age. We were taught to believe these things because they were true and because they were based upon the authority of Scripture.

ONE THING WE WERE NEVER ALLOWED TO DO…

However, one thing many of us were never to do was question these things about our faith. They were to be taken as truth. Period.

And while we were allowed to ask questions in order to learn and understand these principles better, it was frowned upon (whether intentionally or implied) when we asked questions that actually brought into question the validity of these things.

Recently, my 8 year-old and I were watching a show together on PBS. They mentioned the common phrase “millions of years ago”… And so I simply interjected and said to my son, “We know that the earth is not actually millions and millions of years old. According to the Bible, the earth is only about 6,000 years old.” And in the back of my mind, I was proud of myself for setting the record straight for my son so that he wouldn’t be hood-winked by “science”.

But to my surprise, my simple two-sentence explanation wasn’t sufficient to convince an 8-year old. So he began questioning my statements with some very valid questions:

“Dad, how do we know that the earth is only that old?”…
“But none of us were around back then to know.”…
“But what if the earth is older than we think it is?”…

And while my son was drilling me with 20 questions, I had an internal and intentional choice to make as to how I respond. In my flesh, I just wanted to be firm and say, “Now son, I’m the dad, you’re the puny little 8-year-old. Don’t ask questions, just believe what I say!” But how much help would that have been to my son at a time when he was seeking honest answers by asking honest questions from a sincere heart of wanting to know? The simple answer is that it wouldn’t have been helpful at all.

In that moment, I chose to listen, and gracefully respond to each of his questions, answering them as best I could until his curiosity was satisfied. Why? Because I don’t want him to believe in my faith. I want my faith to become his faith. And the only way that will happen is when he is convinced that what the Bible says is actually true, not just because “Dad (or the Bible) says so, and that’s final.”

But guess what, we’re raising teenagers in our house, and they have questions too! In our home, we have a “no question is off limits” policy that has allowed for our kids to question things we do or things we believe when they don’t fully understand or know the reasons behind them.

This open-door policy to our beliefs has allowed us to have multiple conversations as a family about why we believe what we believe, and has ultimately strengthened our children’s faith, not weakened it, as some parents fear.

WHERE THE RUBBER MEETS THE ROAD…

We say that we want our children to own their own faith, but if that’s true, then we have got to give them some opportunities to make it their own.

How many times as parents are we quick to pounce on our kids when they question our beliefs or faith, making them feel guilty, rather than welcoming such questioning, knowing that it allows them to deepen their understanding of those things and actually make them their own?

As our children grow, they’re naturally going to begin to evaluate and analyze things on their own rather than just taking our word for it, and that’s okay. But our natural tendency when they begin to question our beliefs is either frustration or “freak-out” mode, neither of which are healthy.

Do you have an open-door policy to the beliefs in your home?

Because if your kids don’t ever have any questions about their faith, it’s quite possible they won’t have any depth about it either. Such depth requires that they be allowed and encouraged to ask the tough questions.

I heard this concept recently, and loved it… As parents and leaders, we’ve got to get comfortable in the belief that our faith is stronger than any questions our kids might ask about it. By allowing them to test it, we actually encourage them to trust it.

Allowing our children permission to question their faith (and ours) is one of the keys to helping it become THEIR faith. (This is equally important if you teach children in a church or other setting).

Our children hear a lot of different and competing things from a lot of different directions (friends, culture, media, games, books, etc.), and if we are unwilling to explain and defend our biblical philosophies and beliefs to our kids, someone else will gladly convince them of theirs.

All throughout the Scriptures, some of the great men of faith questioned everything they believed in… (Elijah, John the Baptist, Peter, etc.), and as a result, they came back even stronger and more convinced of the truths they held dear.

ARE YOUR KIDS ALLOWED TO ASK THE TOUGH QUESTIONS?…

Mom and Dad, don’t fret or fear when your children at any age begin to question the Biblical truths and principles that have personally become near and dear to your heart. Be thankful for it, and even encourage it. Why? Because it means that they are personally thinking about and processing these things for themselves. They are evaluating these things. And they are desiring to know the truth, rather than just taking others’ words for granted.

It can be a very dangerous thing to raise a generation on spoon-fed Christianity.

While the previous generation may have been able to get by with it, that doesn’t mean that we can today. This generation of young people strongly desire authenticity and transparency. And we shouldn’t expect them to simply take everything they are told at face value, when they want to personally possess those things and be convinced that they are real. This requires allowing them to ask those tough questions.

And if they question you, and you don’t have legitimate answers for why you believe what you believe, it may stretch you as a parent to do some evaluation yourself, to make sure that what you believe is not simply rooted in what you have always heard, but is rooted firmly in the Scriptures.

What could a parent want more than a child who desires to know the truth, and an open opportunity to explain and defend that truth, so that in turn, they will be able to one day do the same. The last thing you want as a parent is a child who simply mirrors your beliefs until they leave home, but never personally makes them their own.

While this idea may go against the grain of everything we’ve been taught, This is why I believe that every child should be allowed to question their faith. Do you agree? Disagree? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

This article about kids’ questions about faith originally appeared here.

5 Signs You’re a Leader Who Talks Too Much

Charles Stone

February 12, 2024

Nobody likes to talk to others who monopolize conversations and drone on about themselves. Healthy conversations should be two-way streets but science tells us that we tend to spend 60% of our conversations talking about ourselves. And unfortunately, leaders can talk too much, not necessarily by monopolizing conversations, but by giving too many answers. So, how do you know if you are a leader who talks too much and what can we do to stop? Consider these indicators.

5 signs you’re a leader who talks too much:

You do more than half the talking in staff meetings.
- If you do, your staff may feel the meeting is all about you rather than about the team.
Staff and volunteers come to you for answers more often than to offer solutions.
- This can indicate an unhealthy dependence on you to solve their problems.
You tend to rush conversations with others.
- If you’re a quick thinker and get frustrated with time wasters, you’ll struggle with this one.
Silence in a conversation really, really bothers you.
- Action biased leaders often view silence as another time waster.
While another person is talking, you’re framing your response.
- It’s easy to slip into this one. When we do, we miss half of what the others person is saying.

I suggest these three solutions to help if you’re a leader who talks too much.

Practice the art of the W.A.I.T.
- WAIT is an acronym for this question, “Why Am I Talking?” In meetings and conversations with others when you sense you may be dominating, mentally ask yourself this question. I’ve found it helps me listen much more carefully and talk much less.
Use the AWE question.
- In Michael Bungay Stanier’s book, The Coaching Habit (which is a phenomenal book every leader should read) he calls the AWE question the best coaching question in the world. It stands for, “And what else?” When you think a conversation has come to the end, he suggests asking this question 3-5 times to get everything from the other person.
Ask “What do you think?”
- This handy question helps when you sense someone wants you to solve his problem. You may immediately know the answer, but by answering it you may foster an unhealthy dependency on you. Often when I use this question with a staff person, her or she comes up with their own solution. The result? They buy in better to their solution and they learn to think better for themselves.

The Scriptures often remind us to listen more and talk less. These are my two favorites on this topic.

James 1.19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. (NLT)

Prov. 18.13 Answering before listening is both stupid and rude. (The Message)

What has helped you become a better listener?

This article about a leader who talks too much originally appeared here.

4 Aspirational Pathways To Help You Keep Growing as a Leader

Dan Reiland

February 11, 2024

When our kids were young, they went through several growth spurts. Their physical growth happened naturally, but most growth requires intentionality.

In their early developmental years they had both Patti and me, their grandparents and their schoolteachers setting the course of their advancement. Sound familiar?

What about our adult years?
Who sets the course of your advancement now?
It’s up to each of us individually, isn’t it?

One of the true perils of leading church ministry is being so invested in the growth of others that your personal growth goes unattended to.

How do you ensure that the busyness of your life and ministry doesn’t take over and inadvertently prevent your intentional pursuit of personal growth?

The principle of putting your oxygen mask on first during an in-flight emergency is critical, but also counterintuitive. You want to take care of your loved one first, but if you don’t take care of you, you can’t help anyone else.

When you consider your continued growth, were are you headed?

How do you know if you get there?

Any growth-oriented content you consume is helpful, but if you have a specific direction, if you have a sense of where you want to go, then selecting content and coaches to support progress in that direction allows your growth to become exponential.

4 Aspirational Pathways To Help You Keep Growing

1. Think Bigger

The pressures and challenges of daily life often create lids to our thinking. The energy expended to solve problems leaves little margin for imagining something larger and better that status quo. How can you break out of that trap?

First, understand that the people around you and especially those closest to you set the bar for how big you think, so make wise choices about your inner circle.

Who is in your inner circle? How do they shape your thinking? Do they leave you dreaming or drained?

After you work through the question of who you closely associate with, are you visiting organizations larger than yours and learning from them?

It is a good idea to see and experience organizations and their various environments, especially churches larger than yours. Size alone doesn’t mean those organizations are better, but it does mean they have traveled further in their leadership journey and have practiced bigger thinking.

Every time I step into an environment larger than where I lead, I see what is possible and it immediately causes me to think bigger.

How you think determines how you live. In fact, you naturally move in the direction of your most dominant thoughts.

Do your best to think biblically, values-based, hope-filled, other-oriented and set your sites on a purpose bigger than you.

Where are you thinking too small?

Take time to be quiet, think, pray and write your thoughts for clarity.

2. Stretch Further

When margin is low and pressure is high it’s easier to pull back rather than stretch your leadership. It’s tempting to hold steady when we should risk. We never grow during status quo, it’s only in the stretch.

If you believe God is with you, and you fervently pray, what keeps you from stretching toward larger leadership?
What is holding you back?
What do you need to let go of to take hold of the new?

We are all temped to live and lead inside the framework we know rather than to venture beyond what we know. That’s where we are comfortable and feel more in control, but growth is experienced outside our comfort zone.

How to Create a Healthy Worship Culture for Your Team

David Santistevan

February 11, 2024

As a leader, there’s nothing more important than defining and protecting your team’s worship culture. A team’s success and failure rises on the health of its culture and how well it’s protected. But you can’t protect a culture if it hasn’t been defined. And you can’t truly lead unless you’ve defined what you’re leading toward.

Culture manifests itself in many ways. There is macro culture and micro culture. Macro culture is the 100,000-foot view, “big picture” vision that sets the stage for everything else you do. Micro culture are the processes and systems you execute every day.

For example, your dress code is micro culture. How you develop worship leaders is micro culture. They are both reflections of the values you most hold dear, and are a snapshot of who you are as a team and a church.

How to Create a Healthy Worship Culture for Your Team

Before we dive into defining a macro culture, there’s an important step that sets the stage. A worship team’s macro culture cannot be defined apart from the large church vision.

Removing Ministry Silos

Your ministry is not a stand-alone entity that exists within your church. It is a living, breathing extension of that vision. This is where a lot of Worship Pastors and Lead Pastors uncover tension: A worship team is operating as a silo within the church. This can happen because a Worship Pastor is disagreeable and not a team player. But it also happens when a Lead Pastor hasn’t clearly defined and communicated the vision. Where there’s no vision, leaders will perish. They’ll either create their own, or they will leave. That is why it’s so important for the Lead Pastor and Worship Pastor to be in unity, moving together as one.

But don’t feel despair or pressure here. Oftentimes all it takes is getting into the same room and having an honest conversation. Commit to working on this together.

Take a look at the diagram below. This is how your worship ministry will make the most sense:

The GLOBAL Church

|

Your Local Church

|

Your Worship Ministry

This is the diagram of a healthy expression of a worship culture. There’s the Global church across the world. All nations. All tribes, colors and tongues. Varied styles and denominations. This is the overall vision of the church: to glorify God by reaching all nations with the message of Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit.

But what does that look like in your local expression? While all churches subscribe to this vision, each individual community is unique in its expression. If that is clear in your culture, you can move onto defining your worship team culture. If it’s not, work with your Lead Pastor to make sure this is well defined. Get behind it, or get out. Don’t push your own agenda in your local community. Get behind the vision and serve it with all your heart.

Once the local expression of a worship culture is clearly defined, it’s time to hash out your Worship Ministry Culture. Look at this as a set of values. This is what defines who you are. Once these values are defined, you can filter all your systems and structures through that vision.

What Are Your Worship Ministry Values?

Here’s an example:

WE ARE:

Discipleship Minded
God Centered
Excellence Focused
Spirit Led
Community Driven

This is a well defined culture. Of course, yours will look a bit different. But that’s not enough. Here is where most ministries get off track. They create values and write them in calligraphy on the wall. They create plaques and hang them everywhere. But it never filters down into daily actions.

So here’s the questions:

How does this overarching culture filter into your:

Audition process
Dress code
Rehearsal
Communication on stage
Team nights
Devos
Worship sound (guitar, keys, vocals, etc)
Stage presence
Song choice
Songwriting
Developing leaders

The list could goes on. But this is how you define culture. This needs to be communicated and it needs to be protected. Otherwise, everyone else on your team will define it for you and that is called a hot mess!

A well defined and protected worship culture creates disciples and removes the wrong people. That may sound harsh. But not everyone is suited to be a member on your team, whether paid or volunteer. Part of pastoral work is helping people find their place. That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s on your team. Saying “no” to someone can actually create an opportunity for them to find the right spot. Too many teams are accommodating everyone and destroying their culture. This is the definition of drama.

Connect with your lead pastor. Define the cultural values. Filter your systems through those values. Communicate it. Repeat and protect. Repeat and protect.

How has a worship culture been developed in your context? How connected are you to your lead pastor’s vision? What do you need to work on?

I’d love to hear more about your worship culture in the comments.

This article on how to create a worship culture originally appeared here.

Why Liturgy Is Important for Outreach

Josh Jones

February 11, 2024

I grew up in a tradition where you could say that there was no emphasis put on liturgy at all, at least not a formal liturgy. But we all follow a liturgy. Whether it has come from hundreds of years of tradition or it’s just from how we are feeling as we put together service elements, we all operate with a plan, and that is what a liturgy is—a plan. And here’s why liturgy is important for the church’s outreach.

Over the years I have come to realize that liturgy, or the plan, is important. Whether you are in the “let the Spirit lead” camp or you have your liturgy written out for you from a book, you know that a plan is important, it is what scripture calls for (1 Cor. 14:40). Liturgy, no matter how loose or tight, provides us with a framework. For years my liturgy consisted of a fast song, a medium song, a slow song, the sermon, a slow song, a medium song, a fast song. It was an emotional liturgy, if you will. Some weeks our service still looks like this, the only difference is that now there is intentionality because we have developed a plan.

Why Liturgy Is Important in Outreach

Liturgy helps us tell the Gospel story

It seems to me that this is becoming a pretty common theme with many pastors and worship leaders. We have taken the major movements of the Gospel story (creation, fall, redemption, restoration), and have begun basing the way we plan our services on those movements. It is nothing new, the church in one way or another has been doing this for hundreds of years. If this is a new thing to you then this is a great place to start. How can you take the congregation on a journey through this story from the beginning of your service until the end? How can you highlight one of these movements? Our aim must be to tell the Gospel story in our services, not just in the sermon or invitation. How can you use liturgy to do this?

Liturgy helps us plan intentionally

If you adopt even the simplest liturgy it gives you a target at which to aim. If you don’t choose any structure at all, services and events can become stale or seem as if they never really “come together.” When you seek to plan intentionally with a liturgy it gives you a basic form that you can deviate from without feeling like you have no base. It also allows you to elevate certain elements of your liturgy from week to week as they may go with the text that is being preached. One reason why liturgy is important is if we don’t plan with the Gospel always in mind we run the risk of trying to tell our own story and meeting our own needs instead of submitting to God’s story and allowing Him to meet the needs only he can.

Liturgy helps helps with discipleship

Liturgy is a great way to teach your congregation about who God is and what He has done. Take confession for instance. If there is an intentional time of confession built into your liturgy then it allows for everyone at the same time to learn the beautiful truth of 1 John 1:9-10. It also reminds us that confession is an act meant for the body as a whole as James 5:16 reminds us. With certain songs, readings and other elements, you can teach on the atonement of Christ, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the sovereignty of God the Father. You can even teach about the crazy mystery of the Trinity through your liturgy (I would encourage you to do this as much as possible!).

If you aren’t familiar with working with a liturgy, or with people who may not understand why liturgy is important, I encourage you to start slow and introduce small changes. Talk with your lead pastor and other pastors/leaders who are involved with worship planning and seek the Lord together on how He would have you plan your worship services. Two good resources on liturgy are Christ-Centered Worship by Bryan Chapell and Rhythms of Grace by Mike Cosper. Above all, seek to exalt Jesus as you plan in such a way that puts Him and His deeds at the center of all your worship.

This article on why is liturgy important originally appeared here.

Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice: 7 Reasons Why We Take Communion

Staff

February 10, 2024

Communion, also known as The Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist, is the central sacrament of the Christian faith. It is a ceremony steeped in deep spiritual meaning and serves as a tangible connection to the foundational truths of Christianity. Here are seven reasons why Christians partake in this sacred practice, which is more than just a ritualistic observance but a profound expression of faith.

Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice: 7 Reasons Why We Take Communion

1. A Memorial to the Saviour’s Love

“Do This in Remembrance of Me”

One reason Christians take communion is to remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus broke bread and drank wine with His disciples, instructing them to do the same in remembrance of Him (Luke 22:19-20). Communion honors the death of Jesus and reflects on the magnitude of His love .

2. Proclaiming the Gospel

Declaring Our Faith

Every time believers take communion, they proclaim the Lord’s death and resurrection until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). It is a public statement of faith that echoes the gospel message, affirming the hope Christians have in Jesus .

3. Acknowledging the New Covenant

Entering Into a Divine Promise

The Lord’s Supper signifies the New Covenant in Christ’s blood. Jesus declared that the cup represents the New Covenant, a legal and spiritual agreement between God and humanity secured by the shedding of His blood (Luke 22:20). This covenant supersedes the Old Testament law and affirms grace .

4. Uniting the Body of Christ

Fostering Spiritual Unity

Communion is an act of unity among believers. Just as the bread is one, so the church is one body, with many members sharing one bread. This unity is beautifully portrayed in 1 Corinthians 10:17, where it says, “For we, though many, are one bread and one body” .

Dave Hollis’ Passing: A Reflection on Health Struggles and Substance Abuse Insights

Staff

February 10, 2024

dave hollis death — Screengrab from Instagram / @mrdavehollis

Dave Hollis, the former Disney distribution chief, author, and ex-husband of Rachel Hollis, passed away at the age of 47. His death was announced on social media by his family on February 11, 2023. Hollis was known for his work in the film industry as well as his contributions to the self-help arena, alongside his then-wife, with whom he co-authored books and hosted conferences focused on personal growth and development.

His transition from a high-profile executive role at Disney to building a platform focused on personal development was met with recognition and support. He authored the book “Get Out of Your Own Way: A Skeptic’s Guide to Growth and Fulfillment,” where he shared personal anecdotes and insights into overcoming challenges and achieving personal goals.

An Unexpected Tragedy: The Death of Dave Hollis

Dave Hollis’ untimely death has been a topic of much discussion, particularly as further details have emerged regarding the circumstances surrounding his passing. The autopsy report obtained by NBC News from the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office provides a clearer but tragic picture of the health challenges and substance use that preceded his death.

His death has been mourned by many who were touched by his work, both in entertainment and the motivational sphere.

A medical examiner ruled Hollis’ death as an accident. This classification is commonly used in cases where death is not a result of intentional self-harm but rather the unintended consequence of specific actions, such as substance abuse.

The Impact of Substance Use

The presence of cocaine, fentanyl, and alcohol in Dave Hollis’ system at lethal levels was a significant factor contributing to his death. The involvement of these substances points to the serious dangers associated with their use, particularly when combined. Fentanyl, in particular, is a potent opioid that has been responsible for a drastic increase in overdose deaths in recent years.

Underlying Health Conditions

The autopsy report also highlighted Hollis’ pre-existing medical conditions, including high blood pressure, depression, and hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, he had moderate to severe atherosclerosis in his heart. These medical issues, combined with substance use, created a lethal situation, culminating in his tragic and untimely death.

Reflecting on a Life and Legacy

Despite his struggles, Dave Hollis’ contributions to the fields of entertainment and self-help were significant. He brought inspiration and motivation to many, drawing from his own experiences of overcoming adversity and personal challenges. Through his work and speaking engagements, he encouraged others to pursue self-improvement and resilience.

His openness about his journey, including the vulnerable discussions of personal obstacles, built a connection with a wide audience who looked to him as a relatable figure in the journey towards wellness and fulfillment.

Hollis posted a video of him encouraging viewers on their own journeys. Hollis said, “Today was all about creating integrity between who you’d hope to be today as a stepping stone to who you’d hope to become.”

Finding Solace and Inspiration: Bible Verses for Retirement

Staff

February 10, 2024

bible verses retirement — Lightstock #196413

Retirement marks a significant milestone in one’s life—a time to reflect on past achievements, embrace the present, and look forward to new opportunities and challenges. It is a period of transition that can be filled with a mix of emotions, from excitement to apprehension.

The Bible, with its timeless wisdom, offers guidance and encouragement for this new chapter. Here are some Bible verses that provide comfort and inspiration for those stepping into retirement.

Bible Verses for Retirement

Embracing a Future of Hope and Purpose

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

This verse reassures retirees that God has a purpose for them beyond their working years, plans that are good and filled with hope.

Celebrating a Lifetime of Work

“Also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God’s gift to man.” Ecclesiastes 3:13

Retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of one’s labor, reflecting on the contribution one has made throughout their career and taking satisfaction in it.

Reflecting on God’s Provision and Care

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

As retirees look to the future, this promise can provide peace of mind that their needs will continue to be met in this new stage of life.

Finding Joy in Each New Day

“This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

Retirement offers the freedom to enjoy each day fully, acknowledging it as a gift from God and an opportunity to find joy in everyday moments.

Encouraging Continued Growth and Learning

“Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” Proverbs 1:5

The Bible encourages lifelong learning and growth, an endeavor that doesn’t retire with us but can flourish in the newfound time retirement brings.

Wedding Wisdom: A Preacher’s Sacred Words

Staff

February 10, 2024

what does a preacher say at a wedding — Lightstock #73758

A preacher plays a vital role in wedding ceremonies, offering guidance, wisdom, and spiritual insights to the couple and their guests. Whether you’re the preacher, the bride, or the groom, you may wonder, “What does a preacher say?”

During a wedding ceremony, the officiant can bring spiritual guidance, wisdom, and blessings to the union of two souls. Their presence symbolizes the sacred commitment and the importance of faith in the marriage journey. As they stand before the couple and their loved ones, a preacher offers words of encouragement, love, and commitment, setting the tone for the entire ceremony.

What Does a Preacher Say at a Wedding?

A preacher’s message during a wedding ceremony typically emphasizes the importance of love, trust, and mutual respect. They may share biblical marriage advice and offer spiritual reflections on the significance of this lifelong commitment. Through their words, a preacher reminds the couple and the guests of the divine purpose of marriage and encourages them to build a strong foundation based on faith.

Bible verses, such as 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, may be incorporated into the preacher’s address, highlighting the qualities of love and the commitment the couple is making. The preacher’s words serve as a reminder of the promises being made and the commitment to support and love one another unconditionally.

Understanding the Preacher’s Role

During a wedding ceremony, a preacher plays a vital role in officiating the union of two souls. Their words hold great significance as they guide the couple through the sacred commitment of marriage. Typically, a preacher will begin by welcoming the guests and setting a tone of love and celebration. They may then share spiritual reflections on marriage, emphasizing the importance of love, commitment, and unity.

Order of Service in a Preacher-Led Wedding

In a wedding ceremony led by a preacher, there is a customary order of service that is followed. It typically begins with a welcoming address where the preacher acknowledges the significance of the day and the joining of two hearts in love and commitment. This is followed by an opening prayer, asking for God’s blessings upon the couple.

Next, the preacher may share a message or homily, offering spiritual reflections on marriage and the sacred commitment being made. Bible verses may be referenced to emphasize the importance of love, unity, and faith in a marriage.

The exchange of vows and rings is a central part of the ceremony. The preacher guides the couple through their marriage vows, reminding them of the promises they are making to each other before God and their loved ones. The rings are then blessed and exchanged as a symbol of their commitment.

The ceremony usually concludes with a closing prayer and say blessings for the newly married couple as they embark on their journey together. The preacher may also pronounce them as husband and wife, sealing their union in the presence of God.

Personalizing Your Ceremony with a Preacher

When it comes to your special day, adding personal touches to your wedding ceremony can make it even more meaningful. Working with a preacher allows you to incorporate your own unique preferences and values into the ceremony. From selecting specific readings or prayers to including personal anecdotes or stories, a preacher can help make your ceremony truly reflect your love and commitment.

One way to personalize your ceremony is by choosing Bible verses that hold special meaning to you as a couple. These verses can be incorporated into the preacher’s address or used as a foundation for your marriage vows. For example, Psalm 127:1 reminds us that “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” This verse can serve as a beautiful reminder of the importance of God’s presence in your marriage.

Additionally, you can discuss with the preacher any specific rituals or traditions that you would like to include. Whether it’s incorporating a unity candle lighting ceremony or having the preacher bless your wedding rings, these personal touches can enhance the overall experience and create lasting memories.

Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of your love and commitment. By working closely with a preacher, you can ensure that your ceremony is a true reflection of your unique journey as a couple.

4 Common Ministry Errors That Leaders Make

Eric Geiger

February 10, 2024

common ministry mistakes — Adobestock #48988054

You have likely observed two common and opposite errors in relation to physical fitness and health—neglect or obsession. Neglect often looks like minimal exercise, eating to relieve stress, and ignoring the neglect you know is occurring. Obsession often looks like being unable to enjoy a meal because you are so consumed with counting the macros, measuring or weighing continually, and thinking non-stop about your body. Perhaps you have bounced in between these two (I have) and learned that both extremes are not pleasing to God and not good for you.

Our tendency to drift impacts not only our health, but also our approach to the ministries God has given us. Here are four sets of common and opposite errors that ministry leaders must avoid to be faithful stewards of the sacred calling that God has given us.

1. Lazy or Workaholic

A mentor once told me that “local church ministry can be a haven for the lazy or the workaholic.” The mystery behind much of the work of pastoring can allow some to not do much of anything, and the unfinished nature of the work of pastoring can pull the sin of workaholism to the surface. A lazy person can hideout and a workaholic can burnout in local church ministry. Both extremes must be diligently avoided.

2. Truth Without Grace or Grace Without Truth

Jesus is full of grace and truth (John 1:14), and we are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Some attempt to only speak the truth and others attempt to only offer grace. Notice I use the word “attempt,” because as Randy Alcorn insightfully wrote, “Truth without grace crushes people and ceases to be truth. Grace without truth deceives people and ceases to be grace.” We must not choose between the two.

3. Love Offending or Unwilling To Offend

If you love to offend people, ministry is not the place for you. And if you are unwilling to offend people, ministry is not the place for you. Both loving to offend and being unwilling to offend are bad for the sheep in God’s flock. The sheep need compassion and clarity. They benefit from shepherds who love them and the truth—and are willing to share the truth even when it offends. Loving people and loving the truth keeps us from the ditches on both extremes.

4. Needing Ministry or Neglecting Ministry

To need ministry in order to feel like your life has worth is to make a god of the gift of ministry. To not work diligently is to neglect the gift of ministry God has given. In Luke’s Gospel, we see Jesus’s desire for his disciples to serve passionately while also not idolizing ministry. When the disciples returned to him rejoicing from a full day of ministry, Jesus gave a strong instruction: “…don’t rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20). Jesus wants us to rejoice more in what he has done for us than in what we do for him.

Remembering who we are helps keep us faithful and away from the common errors. We are servants of Christ and stewards of His grace (1 Corinthians 4:1). He has rescued us and made us his own and given us his message of grace and truth to faithfully steward. May we rejoice in him first and serve others with a holy grit because of what he has done for us.

This article originally appeared here and is used by permission.

9 Evidences That Popularity and Fame Are Getting the Best of You

Chuck Lawless

February 10, 2024

I write to my own heart first today. I can easily fall into the trap of ego, and I can just as easily long for more recognition. I try to monitor my heart, but my heart can be deceitful at times. Maybe these characteristics I watch for in my own life will challenge you as well:

You increasingly isolate yourself from all but a select few. Sometimes the folks you isolate from are even loved ones you know care deeply for you, but you don’t need them now that you’re more successful. The only people you hang around are those who prop up your name and work.
You tend to judge others more harshly than you once did. That’s because it’s easier to see wrong in others when you think you’re something. Self-righteous, important people set themselves up as the judge.
You immediately “bow up” if someone points out something wrong in your actions or words. You’re no longer teachable; after all, you think, the Lord has been using you more than anyone to build His church.
You subtly—and sometimes not so subtly—let others know what great things you’ve accomplished. Some folks often do this in the form of praise: “I praise the Lord for using me to do _______________,” when what they’re really saying is, “Make sure you don’t miss how important I am.”
You have no time any longer for the “little guy.” You used to minister to people regardless of their status in life, but your time won’t allow you to do that anymore. Others will have to minister to them because you have more significant things to do.
You like the stage, but you’re not so fond of quiet times alone with God. The former puts you on the platform before others, but the latter convicts your soul. Aloneness with God slowly disappears for the person drawn away by fame and popularity.
Genuinely godly people tend to quietly walk away from your leadership. You blame them for their choice, but their concern is they see something in you that’s not God-honoring. Right or wrong, they choose to walk away because they assume confronting you will be unsuccessful.
No matter what your current position is, you’re not satisfied. That is, you always think there’s something greater, something more influential, something more national or global for you to do. You can’t settle where you are as long as you’re seeking more fame.
You get jealous when somebody else receives recognition you think you deserve. It’s again the hunger that fleeting fame produces; not only do you long for more, but you also get frustrated when others get more.

Please pray for me, and I’d be honored to pray for you if you find yourself at any spot in this post.

This article originally appeared here.

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