During the sermon yesterday, I shared three points that were concepts to explain the 5th Law of the Harvest which is “We reap in proportion as we sow”. Looking back, I realize this law would make better sense if it was simplified. Here is the 5th law reimagined: “We reap more when we sow more.” … Read more
On Saturday, July 16th, I awakened to a headache, body aches, and dizziness. That afternoon, I tested positive for COVID-19. During my time in quarantine, I’ve had several thoughts about my experience and I’d like to share a few with you. It could’ve been worse.I’m vaccinated but remember, vaccination doesn’t prevent a person from contracting … Read more
Our county is once again mourning the loss of multiple lives at the hands of misguided individuals. We are at a moral crossroad that must be navigated with care. We can either abandon the truth and retreat deeper into apathy, or we can reclaim the moral high ground and revitalize our community. I’d like to … Read more
As churches look to recover from the separation caused by the pandemic, many pastors have lamented their poor church attendance. I’ve heard pastors say things like “we’re back open but we only have a few people each week.” Some have said “our members won’t come to church but I see them everywhere else.” I’ve considered … Read more
Every church member is important. However, it’s not always clear how we can help make our churches better. Here are 5 ways every member can help build and strengthen our church. Make a commitment to spiritual development.“And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the … Read more
The church has become decentralized. It is not focused on the church building any longer. Many pastors have expressed joy when reopening their buildings and sadness at the lack of attendance. Also, church isn’t focused on the 11:00 hour anymore as people engage with the church digitally at the times that fit their lifestyle. The … Read more
Things have changed in our churches and may never really go back to pre-pandemic standards. Sunday schools, missionary ministries, and special services may not survive the pandemic. Youth and children’s ministries will be unrecognizable as we adjust to new social norms. Small group teaching ministries and community fellowship gatherings may die out because of a … Read more
Earlier today, I watched a clip where a mega church pastor named Louie Giglio (@louiegiglio) suggested instead of saying “white privilege” he would suggest “white blessings”. You can watch the clip here: https://twitter.com/namenzie/status/1272692946907824135?s=20 . This is disturbing for many reasons but I want to use an analogy to show why this statement along with “all … Read more
Is it alright to pray angry prayers? In my sermon yesterday, watch it here, I introduced the idea of praying angrily. I know this is not a concept we discuss much in church, but I believe we need to understand this concept in difficult times. Someone may be wondering “is it alright to pray angry … Read more
Recently, I was honored to deliver a eulogy for the adult son of one our eldest church members. After the memorial service, I had 2 conversations with another minister and the funeral director that inspired me to write this post. Here are 4 tips to consider when you’re called upon to preach a eulogy. 1. … Read more
Does your church have screens in the sanctuary? Are you contemplating adding screens to enhance your worship services? If so, I’d like to share some tips with you for using visual media in preaching. 1. Prepare a good sermon. Visual aids are good but they’re not the most important part of the preaching experience. No … Read more
Times have changed. We are living in a new age of information and influence. To be effective in ministry in this present age, we must learn from the examples of those who were leading the church in an unchurched world. With this in mind, I’d like to share a few thoughts with you from Paul’s … Read more
In the book of Galatians, the Apostle Paul takes time to validate his apostleship. You see, unlike the other apostles who walked with Jesus during his earthly ministry, Paul only encountered the risen savior on the road to Damascus. As a result, the people in Galatia were more impressed with the other apostles than they … Read more
The best leaders communicate well with their teams. The Apostle Paul, writer of 13 books of the New Testament, used letters to keep followers on track spiritually and connected to his ministry. I’d like to share some communication principles from Paul’s example that every leader can apply for immediate results. Let’s look at 2 Corinthians … Read more
Bad sermons happen. It’s not an issue of “if” you have a bad sermon but “when” you preach one. In those times, it can be for any number of reasons. But, as preachers, pastors, and ministers we learn from those experiences and allow God to correct us, teach us, and refine us. I believe there’s … Read more
Have you ever preached a Saturday Night Special? A Saturday Night Special is a sermon you start preparing at the last minute on Saturday night before you preach it on Sunday morning. For my entire ministry I’ve heard countless seasoned pastors warn against preaching a Saturday Night Special. I’m sure you have too so I’m … Read more
In January, I was blessed with an opportunity to visit the CURE Childrens Hospital in Niamey, Niger, Africa. While there I learned the hospital had several children who were awaiting surgery while the hospital staff increased their nutritional levels. You see, many of the hospital patients come from remote villages where food is scarce. Some … Read more
The final point in my sermon this week was “Communicate Everything”. During that point, I explained how Nehemiah made communication a priority during a crisis. There’s a story I wanted to share but the Lord didn’t lead me to share it at that time. So I’ve decided to share it now to emphasize the value … Read more