The Untruth of “There Is Truth in Every Criticism”
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
5 Dangers of Being Deprived of an Involved Father
In their latest book, The Boy Crisis, Warren Farrell and John Gray highlight stats and research that point to the pains of boys growing up deprived of an involved father. They also offer wisdom and counsel on how to invest in your sons. Though I don’t have sons, the research reminded me of the great […]
8 Ways to Treat your Successor
We are only eight months in to the transition at Mariners Church between Kenton Beshore (long-time senior pastor) and me (the new guy). But we are frequently receiving phone calls from churches that see succession from a long-time senior to a new leader in their not-so-distant future. The healthy relationship Kenton and I share is […]
Christian Leader: Remember, You Are a Child Before You Are a Boss
We lose our power as Christian leaders when we think as “leaders of people” before we think as “children of God.” We must posture ourselves first as sons and daughters of God, not as rulers and bosses. If we lead others without following Him, we are not leading well and who knows where we are […]
5 Strategies to Bring Out the Best in Your Team
While team competence is important, team chemistry is more so. My friends at Vanderbloemen care deeply about team chemistry — not just team competence. Because they work with church leaders every day, I find their insight on bringing out the best in your team to be very helpful and very insightful. While building and leading […]
How One Change in Technology Changed So Much for Teachers (and Leaders)
Before we had kids, Kaye taught public school for eight years. When we found out we were having our first daughter, we decided she would take step away from teaching for several years. Her last day as a teacher (the first time around) was one day in June of 2007. The first iPhone was released […]
3 Things That May Be True if People Are Constantly Complaining to You
In my first full-time ministry position, right out of college, I learned so much because I served with a leader who loved me enough to confront me and tell me the truth. He coached me on developing other leaders for ministry, and he encouraged me in my personal development. And I still remember one interaction […]
Chasing 2 Rabbits in Leadership and Ministry
Confucius is credited with saying, “The man who chases two rabbits, catches neither.” It is a statement about focus, and it is true. If you chase two rabbits at the same time, you won’t catch either one because they will pull you in different directions. Right as you are close to catching one, you will […]