Writing

This blog helps pastors and church leaders foster spiritual discernment and maintain a healthy work-life balance, offering reflections and practical advice to lead with clarity and purpose rooted in a strong connection with God.

Preparing for a Sabbatical Journey

Preparing for a Sabbatical Journey

I have not been as faithful through 2016 in writing for this blog. Other work has taken precedence during the year. However, I am not abandoning this blog. I am more convinced than ever of the necessity of discernment in churches. This past week, ...

Heart Eyes

Heart Eyes

In each of Paul’s letters, he follows the writing conventions of his day. He begins by identifying himself and then offers greetings. As usual, Paul then includes a prayer of thanksgiving for his readers. In Ephesians, I find his prayer particular...

Embracing Discernment Through Psalm 25

Embracing Discernment Through Psalm 25

I’m beginning to see the word discern more frequently these days. In books, magazine articles, and blog entries, the word seems to be everywhere. However, I’m not sure we fully understand its meaning. One definition describes discernment as: ...

Clean Water

Clean Water

In following the lectionary readings as a part of a devotional time, I came to a passage in Jeremiah that caught my attention. Jeremiah is proclaiming God’s reaction to the disobedience of His people. (Jeremiah 2:4-8 NIV) Hear the word of the ...

His Ways

His Ways

This has been a season of traveling for me and my family. We have enjoyed time with extended family and a week of serving kids with disabilities at a camp. I have enjoyed a break from daily routines, but it is good to be writing again. A few week...

The Peril of Old Methods: Lessons from the Sons of Thunder

The Peril of Old Methods: Lessons from the Sons of Thunder

As we continue to consider the twelve disciples in worship, we focus on James this week. While he is one of the lead disciples, he is seldom mentioned alone in Scripture. In fact, the only time he is cited without his brother John is when he is ma...