Kyle Rohane, editor of the Christianity Today pastors’ newsletter, used that forum to thank a number of pastors who had made a difference in his life. He summed up his column with these words. “But to these pastors and to…
Don’t Be Discouraged. Seasons Don’t Last Forever
A few weeks ago people in my part of the country received a pleasant surprise. Just as summer came to an official end, the weather turned unseasonably warm. The highs were around thirty degrees with lots of sunshine. In other…
Some Words Of Encouragement
Every once in a while I need a note of encouragement. I have filed away in my computer some quotes that often provide that encouragement for me. I try to extract from every book that I read at least one…
A Simple Faith
I have always been the type of person to ask questions. When I was a teenager, I drove my mother crazy with the questions that I used to ask about my faith. I look back now and realize that Mom…
The Larger The Church The Greater The Risk
During my years as a pastor I once found myself in a situation in which I had to ask someone to leave the church. I can still remember that conversation in which I suggested that it would be best for…
David And Goliath
Every once in a while I love reading a book that is just a fun read. Malcolm Gladwell writes those kinds of books. If you have never read anything that he has written, you should give him a try. I…
Count Your Many Blessings
I love many of the songs that are being sung today in our churches. There is a steady stream of praise songs available and many of them have been used powerfully by the Holy Spirit to touch people’s lives. I…
Strengths Of The Small Church Part II
Two weeks ago I shared with you three strengths of the small church in Part I of this blog entry. Today I want to share two other strengths. The small church allows leadership to know each person in the…
The Need For Patience 101
If I were setting the courses for seminaries everywhere, I would make a course entitled “Patience 101” mandatory for every future church leader. Patience is absolutely essential in bringing about change in any church setting and often the lack of…
Strengths Of The Small Church: Part 1
I find myself often explaining to people that I am not opposed to large churches. I am afraid that in conversations I can so emphasize my love for the small church that I sound like I think that large churches…