I often encourage people in our church that reading Proverbs should be part of the rest of their life. Whatever day of the month it is, read that day’s chapter of Proverbs. Today is May 3. Read Proverbs 3. A…
A Window into a Pastor’s World
“and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, Ephesians 6:19 ****************** The point of this is not to complain about my schedule – –…
A Guide to Proverbs Within Proverbs
One of the things we encourage our leaders to do is to read the day’s chapter of Proverbs. It’s not something we’re legalistic about – – not a big deal if you miss a day – – but, I encourage…
The Trellis and the Vine and our goals with the Bricks in the Valley
One of my biggest goals for the next 5 years with the Bricks is to see God develop men as leaders (see these posts). An excellent summary of this approach can be found in The Trellis and the Vine. It…
Tullian Tchividjian: “The Everday Gospel”
I can’t really move forward unless I learn more thoroughly the gospel’s content and how to apply it to all of life. Real change does not and cannot come independently of the gospel. God intends his Good News in Christ…
In whom should a pastor invest?
Guys –-here is one of the reasons I am making ministry to our men such a priority. Colin Marshall and Tony Payne in the recommended, The Trellis and the Vine: The Ministry Mind Shift that Changes Everything: But if we…
A new Bible is like fresh snow
I have a new Bible in my cupboard. Once Sabbatical arrives, I will peel the shrink wrapping off and begin devouring it (Jeremiah 15:16). And, my prayer (Psalm 119:18 –-see here) is that God will speak into my life in…
One of the reasons you need a pastor
Shannon Popkin gives a great description of one of the ways your pastor can bless you. Read Shannon’s article and consider her question at the end. I pray that you can give an enthusiastic, “yes.” When I was in middle…
Steve Brown on why pastors need a mean streak
I fully expect to go into an airport sometime and find three rest rooms: one for men, one for women, and one for clergy. Our image—and thus, God’s—is sissified. Steve Brown. “Fear of man will prove to be a snare,…
Meditate with pen in hand
One of the things we’re encouraging our leaders to do is to write in their Bibles. When you read the day’s chapter of Proverbs, paraphrase the Proverb that gets your attention (See here). So, today is the 27th. Read Proverbs…