Watching children play can be fascinating. Their vivid imaginations allow them to be almost anything, go any place in the universe and be anybody they choose to be. They fantasize about accomplishing feats far beyond their physical, emotional or mental abilities. The other day I was watching a group of children playing where a little boy was the self-appointed leader.…
A burden for ministry may take you to a place of service, but only a love for Jesus will keep you there. Cultivating your personal spiritual walk is not a bullet point on your ministry training checklist; it is the source of life and ministry. Notice what Ezra (ca. 450 BC) did when he went to rebuild the temple. From…
What is the secret to living a powerful life? Fitness gurus would answer by telling us exercising and healthy eating, while motivational speakers assure us it is all about positive thinking. I support healthy eating and exercise (as long as it does not completely rule out French fries) but even adding a positive outlook on life may not produce the…
Youth Ministry 101: Balancing Family and Ministry One of the things I enjoy the most about my ministry is teaching college students. I teach a course each fall at Word of Life Bible Institute entitled, "Developing a Biblical Philosophy of Youth Ministry." I think it is imperative that we help students to think through their "principle centered" philosophy before they…
A practical plan for family devotions can be very elusive. I believe most parents really desire to influence their children spiritually but simply do not know how. I recently wrote an article for MTL Magazine entitled A Parent's Guide to Family Devotions. It contains some practical advice and creative ideas about how to institute a tradition of family devotions in…