Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Think about how many things in life you need to apply that principle to. While you’re at it, reconsider where you feel you’ve nailed it but may actually need a good gut-check. How about when it comes to technology in your life or ministry?…
A pastor was working on his weekly sermon one day while his son watched. “Dad,” the boy asked, “how do you know what to say every week?” “God tells me,” he answered, writing some more thoughts on his sketch pad. The boy watched for a few minutes more and asked, “Are you sure it’s God?”…
You know the temptation. It goes something like this: Plan for your program. High-five some kids as they come in. Say something profound in your message or class time. Talk up the next big event. Run the next event. Over-hype everything you did so your church is glad they hired you.…
How much sleep did you get last night? I’m not asking what you did last night or the night before that required you to stay up late. It was probably quite noble and likely “for the kingdom.” Maybe this is even a pattern in your life.…
Leneita Fix wrote a brilliant post on how to answer student’s questions that leave us speechless. I added a comment there, but I thought it might be helpful to also share a slice of an email along these lines that I wrote to our youth leaders.…
I like it when people pick up the tab for my food. A guy named Doug approached me years ago when I transitioned into a church as its youth pastor. He’d been a faithful student ministry volunteer and wanted to start a friendship with me.…
Let’s be honest: It’s hard to find a student who wants to step up. I’m not talking about teenagers who want a position of power. Many do, and often for the wrong reasons. I’m talking about getting students to do something that is authentic and needed, yet incredibly awkward.…
How can I serve you today? You know you can use a little help with something. Maybe it’s a phone call someone wants you to return or some copies you’ll have to make before your next lesson. Some of those things require you, but I’m guessing not all of them do.…
