Legalism is attempting to earn God’s approval with our works. It is man’s attempt to qualify himself to stand before God on his own merits. We are recovering legalists, for there was a time, before Christ rescued us, when we attempted to find our joy in ourselves, our salvation by ourselves. Now we trust His…
In his book Practicing Affirmation, Sam Crabtree gives 9 reasons why we should affirm others. His words are also helpful in giving “handles” in how we can love our neighbor. Affirming others earns us the right standing from which to make suggestions. It gains us a hearing. Affirmation lifts morale. It’s good for the home, the office,…
Here’s some insight Paul Tripp gives on understanding the biblical function of our hearts. He shares that the order of the questions must not be changed. You can change the verbiage but its important to walk through these question in the order given. What was going on? This question is designed to simply get a sense…
They communicate clearly and consistently the problems and challenges the organization is facing, as well as possible solutions, positive news, and exciting possibilities. They empower people by giving them the authority and the tools to get things done. They make sure that people are excited and inspired by the mission.
In 2 Corinthians 4:7-12 Paul tells us several truths about the gospel message that affect us at a heart-level. They are… The gospel brings perspective because when you come to an understanding that God set you apart, that you’re saved by Jesus’ merit, life NOT what you do, that He graciously allows you to be…
Good leaders make optimism an organizational priority. The people in the organization where you serve/lead will become more optimistic if they 1) are informed and involved, 2) feel that they have the power and authority to take action and 3) are committed to a compelling direction and inspiring vision. Good leaders stoke the fires…
Uzziah was a great king who ruled in Judah. He accomplished many, many things that can be read about in 2 Chronicles. However, 2 Chronicles 26:15b reads, “…And his fame spread far, for he was marvelously helped, till he was strong.” Till he was strong… There was a change that came in King Uzziah’s life.…
The Anatomy of an Affair from “A Man and His Marriage” material Unintentional neglect of each other in your marriage. Both the friendship & the physical intimacy begin to wane. Someone of the opposite sex is really kind to you. She notices you, compliments you, affirms you & you feel respected. The compliment turns into a…
Here’s some characteristics of someone who is not a leader: They’re not a servant They’re not teachable They’re unjust in their dealings They’re not hospitable They have an unhappy family Steve Farrar, in his book Finishing Strong makes these observations from John’s account of Diotrephes in 3 John. This list is short – what else would you…
Here’s a quote from Charles Bridges’ book The Christian Ministry that addresses both the external and internal call to ministry. Bridges writes, The external call is a commission received from and recognized by the Church…not indeed qualifying the Minister, but accrediting him, whom God had internally and suitably qualified. This call communicates therefore only official authority.…
Theology Along the Way 