Have you ever been puzzled by the “knowing vs doing” problem? You know the problem I’m talking about. It’s the one where you know WHAT to do, but can’t make yourself WANT to do it. You know… Going to bed on time Getting up early Exercising Eating well Avoiding alcohol Turning off your social media … Continued
I receive some of the most amazing emails in my inbox, detailing people’s stories and how intersecting some of my books or podcasts has helped affirm what the Spirit had already been speaking into their hearts. I don’t always get to meet those who write them, though. On my most recent trip, I got to … Continued
Every story given to us and every story told to another is a precious gift that has the potential to seed us with God. —Dan Allender As he served me a mouthwatering steak dinner, he sat down kitty-corner from me and asked, “What three things would you like me to know about you right now?” … Continued
Having been a church planter twice, I understand the unique challenges facing planters. They are constantly struggling with leadership issues, finances and simply knowing what to do next. I’d love to offer a word of encouragement for church planters. Recently I had a conversation with a church planter friend in Chicago. He’s in hard soil … Continued
There is not one relationship I have with another person in which being used would be considered desirable. Nobody wants to be used. To use something is to extract its goodness out of it for my purposes then discard the parts that are not useful. When I first began to follow Jesus, I was surrounded … Continued
Where there female prophets of the Bible? Yes! There certainly were! There are at least seven (maybe eight – but we’ll get to that in a minute). Not including, of course, false prophets. First, however, let’s examine what a prophet is, biblically. Prophets Of the Bible Often when people think of prophets, they think of … Continued
What is the role of a shepherd of God’s people? Sometimes I think we confuse our role and get discouraged as a result. Many pastors and teachers get frustrated when people fail to live up to their expectations, or when they come so far only to mess up again. I can easily join them in … Continued
“The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart” (Ps. 19:8). Knowing your life is on the right track is a source of great joy. What brings you joy? Your answer will reveal much about your priorities and the direction your life is heading spiritually. The psalmist wrote, “How blessed [happy] is the man … Continued
Peter thawed his cold hands by the warm fire. He said that he would never be ashamed of Jesus. But he was about to deny Him…to a maid. He was about to go through a fiery trial and three times be found guilty of being ashamed of the one he called his Lord. Peter made … Continued
I found this sad prayer request in the comments section of our YouTube channel: I’m very depressed and so on, my wonderful mother passed in March (months ago). I’m dealing with a lot of bad thoughts and negativity in me that you can imagine. I don’t find peace. Please pray for me. I feel lost … Continued
