The Year of Overcoming Triskaidekaphobia

Thursday, January 10, 2013 Building People of Substance for Works of Power Trust and obey, Friend. Like most preachers, I usually make some sort of proclamation concerning the New Year. This year I have deemed it “The Year of Overcoming Triskaidekaphobia.” For those who are not up to speed on this condition, it means fear … Continue reading The Year of Overcoming Triskaidekaphobia

The Word and the Spirit, keep it real!

I had an interesting visit recently with a lovely lady of about 70 years. She has been a Christian for 60 of those years, all spent in one Pentecostal denomination. She made and appointment to see me, and came to my office with a notebook and a pen. She opened the conversation with a question: … Continue reading The Word and the Spirit, keep it real!

The Nature of Leadership

I came out of my office the other night about a half hour before service. In addition to the usual flutter of early birds preparing for ministry, there was a new covey gathered in the back of the sanctuary. About 20 folks were lined up in front of a table full of plastic bags, energy … Continue reading The Nature of Leadership

Grateful for the Message

I am having a gratitude attack this morning. The symptoms are a swollen heart and tears of joy when I think of how God has blessed me. In particular, I am grateful that He plopped me into this wonderful family of faith. I came to the Lord by myself reading a Billy Graham book in … Continue reading Grateful for the Message

Plan Time with God

While preparing to leave Panama this week, a couple of things struck me while negotiating the airport. As usual, after clearing security I headed for the men’s room. This is a recently remodeled facility. Millions of dollars were spent to provide a beautiful building with modern appurtenances. As I joined the march of men pulling … Continue reading Plan Time with God

Give Them the Word

Every now and then I read or hear something so far outside my way of thinking it hardly seems real. Often I take another step or two before it hits me and my mouth drops. A few days ago a friend wrote me about a church where he was told they didn’t like to study … Continue reading Give Them the Word

Don’t Settle for Less than God’s Best

Many years ago, in another place and time, I had a fellow come to me with a big grin on his face. He shook my hand vigorously and announced, "Pastor, I believe God wants me to serve as an usher here." I encouraged him to do so, gave him the job description, and referred him … Continue reading Don’t Settle for Less than God’s Best

Thank God for the New Old Days

As Christmas gets close I tend to reminisce and, like many in my age bracket, wax philosophical about the “good old days.” I do miss my mom and dad, and Christmas at Grandma’s, etc. But this morning I am struck with how many things I am grateful for today that we didn’t have just a … Continue reading Thank God for the New Old Days

Love Constrains

So I'm standing in line with Judy at the salad buffet, tray in hand, ready for lunch. Ahead of us is another couple perusing the cabbage. They look to be 40ish, attractive and well-groomed. Suddenly, the woman takes out her cell phone and appears to read a text message. We stand waiting. She puts down … Continue reading Love Constrains

God Does Good Stuff!!

We just finished a season of collecting testimonies from the people in our church, both written and recorded. Last Sunday, the service was comprised of 4 testimonies. It was great! (If you missed it, you can watch it on line.) We had stories of recovery from addiction and sexual abuse and incarceration. God has been … Continue reading God Does Good Stuff!!