In James 1:2-4, the author James writes these shocking and uncomfortable words: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” We don’t […]
What I Learned Memorizing the Book of James
Two months ago I took on the personal challenge of seeing if I could memorize the first chapter of James. I was preparing to start a new sermon series in this book and thought it would be a good discipline to commit the beginning words of James to memory. After memorizing the first chapter over […]
How Do We Live Out Our Mission?
Most churches have a mission statement that states the purpose for their existence. The goal of these statements is to provide clarity, focus, unity. These statements can help everyone move in the same direction as they seek to live out God’s calling for them as a church. But the challenge with the mission statement is […]
Is That Song Biblical?
Last month we talked about different types of worship songs in the Bible. Over the years, in the many churches I have worked at as a worship leader, worship pastor and a variety of other titles (the most convoluted being “Pastor of Creative Communications and Worship Leader”), I often received messages concerned that a specific […]
Living Out the Great Commission in Children’s Ministry
Jesus says in Matthew 28:18-20, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I […]