I can think of about four times in my life when I felt the world closing in on me. I can remember how everything on the peripheral seemed to become fuzzy and there was an intense focus on the person giving me bad news. Each time I felt completely out of control. And I was. … Continue reading Drowning in Digestive Juices
There Has to Be Something More!
Have you ever thought, "God must have something more for me"? Many people that I have talked to have answered that question yes. There is a longing in their heart that there is something more significant for them to accomplish. God had something significant for the Old Testament prophet Jonah. But Jonah had a problem. … Continue reading There Has to Be Something More!
Community Is Worth It!
In a casual read of Genesis 1, there is a phrase that sticks out, "And God saw that it was good." But in Genesis 2:18, we see that God said, "It is not good for man to be alone." So He sent Adam on a Divine Quest. You may be wondering what is a Divine … Continue reading Community Is Worth It!
Bob & Phyllis
I love my mom and dad. They are great people who are loved by so many in the community where I grew up. But I have found the rest of the world knows nothing about them. Dad retired as the Board Chairman and the CEO of one of the largest Hoosier owned banks in Indiana. … Continue reading Bob & Phyllis
You Can Puke on Me!
I was just out of college. It was my first ministry. My mentor, the Lead Pastor of the church I was serving, helped me through a broken engagement. After it was over, he wrote me a handwritten note. In it he talked about how important it is to share deeply with a friend when you … Continue reading You Can Puke on Me!
Accountable Grace (Secret to a Joy Filled Life, pt 7)
Here is the bad news: Relationships are messy. Last week, I was praying with a friend. As we talked about life, he shared with me about how he was once again in court with his ex-wife. We reflected on how our vow before God of "until death do us part" is something even after divorce. … Continue reading Accountable Grace (Secret to a Joy Filled Life, pt 7)
Joy’s Power Source (Secret to a Joy Filled Life, pt 5)
When my kids were growing up, we raised club lambs for them to show in 4-H. It was intentional parenting. Not only did they make enough money to buy their first car, but they learned responsibility and the concept of shepherding (both important skills for leaders in training). One of the lessons, "What to do … Continue reading Joy’s Power Source (Secret to a Joy Filled Life, pt 5)
Responsive Obedience (Secret to a Joy Filled Life, pt 4)
The polarization of today's American politics is a microcosm of our culture. We are becoming more and more divided. You see it expressed in an argumentative spirit, grumbling and complaining. It doesn't matter what side of the political aisle people are on. In the name of free speech there is a number of people who … Continue reading Responsive Obedience (Secret to a Joy Filled Life, pt 4)
Think Like Jesus (Secret to Joy Filled Life, pt 3)
Relationships are critical to enjoying the human experience! You have probably heard the old saying, "If momma ain't happy ain't nobody happy." It may or may not make you smile, but it speaks to truth. If our relationships are unhealthy, we are not going to experience the joy God has prepared for us. Please read … Continue reading Think Like Jesus (Secret to Joy Filled Life, pt 3)
The Secret of a Joy Filled Life
I am a joy junky! If you could have more joy in your life would you want it? I know I would. I love life. I love the people that I live it with. And I love the people I encounter along the way. But if someone is offering more joy, count me in. How about … Continue reading The Secret of a Joy Filled Life
Inside HIS Grace 