What we allow into our lives is what we dispense to others. What’s in your cistern? Thirst is powerful. It is a warning of something physical, but the desire to consume water permeates into the emotional and mental realms of a person. In a hot and dry place, panic and hopelessness can overwhelm one whoContinue reading “What’s In Your Cistern? Day 4”
Tag Archives: Jesus
Leadership Lessons from Israel: Shalom
Leaders bring peace into chaos. Leaders fight for reconciliation in broken relationships. They work diligently to build unified teams that pursue a clear vision. Leaders offer plans that best utilize the resources available to fulfill the mission. A disciple-making ministry that is lacking in peace will fail to glorify God or follow His purposes. OnContinue reading “Leadership Lessons from Israel: Shalom”
Unimaginable Suffering in Gethsemane (The Physical Weight of the Cross)
When we see in the news where a gang member kills a rival gang’s member, we are saddened by the depravity of our world. When a man beats a preschool child to death in an uncontrolled fit, we are outraged and demand justice. Taking the life of one whom seems innocent and incapableContinue reading “Unimaginable Suffering in Gethsemane (The Physical Weight of the Cross)”
Unimaginable Suffering in Gethsemane (Intro)
What was the closest Jesus came to death prior to the cross? In the wilderness temptation, Jesus nearly starved to death (See Matthew 4:2). At the beginning of His public ministry, Jesus was nearly killed in His hometown of Nazareth (see Luke 4:29). Before retreating to Perea, Jesus was almost stoned toContinue reading “Unimaginable Suffering in Gethsemane (Intro)”
The Not So Quiet Christian Life (Cannot But Speak – Part 4)
“Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary” is a statement for which I vehemently disagree. In the town I live, a church sign proposed this statement and assigned the author as Francis of Assisi. Strangely, no one can find that he actually made the statement (even though the name for this congregationContinue reading “The Not So Quiet Christian Life (Cannot But Speak – Part 4)”
Talk About Your Testimony (Cannot But Speak- Part 3)
News travels fast. People all over the world can learn of a catastrophe within seconds of the event. At times it seems that we are starving for new information. If something note-worthy occurs in our lives, we call, text, or update our favorite social media outlets immediately. Then we check to see what is happeningContinue reading “Talk About Your Testimony (Cannot But Speak- Part 3)”
Talk to God First (“Cannot But Speak” Part 2)
Somewhere along the way I heard a statement that went something like this: “Before you talk with someone about their sin, talk to God first.” With my words, I have seen God do miraculous works and I have also seen the negative effects of angry, self-righteous words. Above all parts of the body, none shouldContinue reading “Talk to God First (“Cannot But Speak” Part 2)”
“Cannot But Speak” Introduction
I do not agree with an old saying, “Children should be seen and not heard.” When it comes to Christians (God’s children), our society attempts to adopt such an archaic philosophy. Most non-Christians care less about what we do on Sunday morning and where we give our money. However when we open our mouths andContinue reading ““Cannot But Speak” Introduction”
Joy. That’s What It’s All About (Four Levels of Followship)
The “Hokey Pokey” got it wrong. In fact, just the terms “hokey” and “pokey” make me quite uneasy. Fortunately, joy is what “it” is all about. That is what Jesus said in John 15:11. “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” (ESV) That’sContinue reading “Joy. That’s What It’s All About (Four Levels of Followship)”
The Ultimate Relationship (Four Levels of Followship)
Jesus offers His disciples an intimacy that is deeper and more fulfilling than any other relationship can provide. Intimacy is a word we struggle to use in the church realm. We think too much in human terms, where the romantic honeymoon becomes the less than perfect adventure in mediocrity. The “knight in shining armor” becomesContinue reading “The Ultimate Relationship (Four Levels of Followship)”
Shepherding Well 