I have a few “go-to” tools that help me prepare a message. I am the primary teacher in our high school youth ministry but I also carry part of the teaching load for our church (about once a month). More than anything, I want to correctly convey God’s word. My hope is that I do that in a way that honors God and engages people. Here are a few sites that help me shape messages.
Evernote
This is my go-to note-taking app. It is free and it is everywhere.
Visual Thesaurus
It is hard finding the perfect word(s). This is a good thesaurus, but it is a great visual. I like seeing my choices and this site uses a unique layout. There are apps that do something similar, but this has been the best I have found.
RhymrZone
I feel weird trying to rhyme a phrase, but it can be very memorable. I use this site sparingly, but it is handy.
iTunes
Listen and learn. I watch other teachers, a lot. This really helps be learn and sharpen as a presenter. I love the warning that indirectly comes with this tip from Francis Chan.
Pray
Not an app. The role prayer plays in my ministry has changed over time. I can not believe how I have let this slide over the years.
Prayer does not equip us for greater works— prayer is the greater work.
– Oswald Chambers
iAnnotate
The app I use to speak from. If you are teaching from your tablet here are several options, just find the app that works best for you.
What am I missing? Do you have a go-to site that helps you with message prep?
– Brandon / @iamBRANDONEARLY