You have likely heard the cliché, “there is a grain of truth in every criticism.” It is usually offered to leaders as an encouragement to look for some truth in every criticism they face, to carefully evaluate themselves in the light of what someone has said about them, a decision they have made, or an…
Should You Share Criticism You Receive With Your Spouse?
I was in a meeting last week with a group of senior pastors, and we were asked to force rank the pain of criticism by groups of people. Whose criticism hurts the most? There was some discussion about the force ranking, but we essentially landed on this order (the top being the most painful and…
Leaders and Smoking What You Sell
Drug dealers typically sell to others what they do not use. Lyrics have captured this: “to be a dope man you must qualify, don’t get high off your own supply.” Some believe this is smart and savvy, not only to avoid the damages of drugs but also to maximize profits. Others believe this is the…
7 Principles of Wisdom from the New CSB He Reads Truth Bible
For the last several years I have been using the Christian Standard Bible for my personal studies, sermon prep, and when teaching. The following helpful and encouraging article about wisdom is from the new CSB He Reads Truth Bible, designed to foster a growing affection for God and His Word and to increase biblical literacy….
The Great Commission and 3 Types of Churches
After Jesus walked out of the tomb alive and just before He ascended to heaven, Jesus gave His disciples authority to join His mission of reconciling people to God, people of all nations. Jesus commissioned His disciples, sending them out to make disciples. His words have been called the Great Commission: “All authority has been…
Nicodemus and the Samaritan Woman: Will You Serve Both?
Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman: Will you serve both? If you had to choose, which one do you find easier or more enjoyable to love and serve? We tend to be more passionate about serving some people over others. Even for those of us on staff at a church, those of us with the title…
3 Lessons from a Vineyard Farmer about Your Growth
In John 15 when Jesus told His disciples that He is the true vine and they were the branches, He assured them that those who abide in Him would produce fruit because of their connection to Him. Judas, His betrayer, had already departed and thus proved to not really belong to Jesus – to be…
The Most Expensive Cheesesteak in America and What to Do With Our Desires
Barclay Prime sells the most expensive cheesesteak in the U.S. While most cheesesteaks cost eight to ten bucks, this one sells for 120 dollars. The sandwich features A5 Wagyu beef, served on a sesame roll with truffle better, and topped with rich blend of Italian cheese. Some reviewers love it, claiming it is the best…
3 Reminders to Seminary Graduates, Past and Present
May is the month of graduations, not only for high school and college students but also for seminary students. I remember both of my graduations from Southern Seminary (I completed both masters and doctoral studies at Southern), and they were big days for my family and me. Kaye and my parents attended and we celebrated…
Church Leaders: Ministry Is From God, But It Is Not God
When I first began serving in local church ministry, a pastor told me that “church is a great place to hide out and a great place to burn out.” He further explained that ministry can attract workaholics, those who live off affirmation from others for the work they do. And that ministry can also attract…