Kevin has eyes that never dim. They can’t. They’re too full of light and hope and passion. Come to think of it, so are Sarah’s and Brad’s and Caitlyn’s and Mitch’s, and the list goes on. Each one is unique in their dreams and ideas. Each one is a bright light in a world of dark people. It’s awesome. Together, they represent a cross-section of young adults who have come from here and there Sunday after Sunday to be part of something bigger than themselves. They have come to be present. They have come to listen. And, their … [Read more...]
Making a Case for Your Use of the Wheel
In the 1930’s, a 22-year-old sailor who was on fire for Christ had an idea for an illustration that would enable him to teach others the basics of this faith that he had come to grip so tightly. Dawson Trotman would come up with the beginning version of what is now known as “The Wheel of the Obedient Christian.” This visual tool has been a staple for disciple-makers for the last 80 years and still features a prominent spot amongst the Navigators, a Christian ministry that was birthed by Trotman. I genuinely believe that this simple … [Read more...]
How Do We Teach College Students to Share the Gospel?
"For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16, CSB) Recently when a number of college students were asked to share the gospel, they struggled to do so. These students are leaders of ministries, grounded in their faith, involved in church, and they love Jesus. Their inability to share the story of Jesus clearly and succinctly was astonishing. Some of the students shared about who Jesus was in their lives. Others talked about … [Read more...]
4 Reasons to Take a Break and Give Thanks in Ministry
For some ministry leaders, summer is a season of rest and recovery from a crazy year, as well as a time of envisioning what could be in the year to come. Though there are still opportunities for ministry, there is also the possibility you’ll have a chance to take a minute to breathe. When that season comes, what do you do with the space? I find it hard to turn off my brain, to slow down and remember the past year, or even to take a break from thinking about the next things that need to be done or the next places the ministry needs to … [Read more...]
Do You Do Summer on Purpose?
I absolutely love summer! Beaches, ice cream, long days, fireworks, vacations, and hot temperatures all point towards a relaxing couple of months. Summer, in my opinion, is the “unofficial” rest season. It is a season for Sabbath and restoration—especially for those in ministry. We spend all fall, winter, and spring going full speed working, serving, discipling, mobilizing, reaching, and pouring into others. Our callings—in addition to all these things—take lots of energy and time. By the time summer hits, many of us are running on … [Read more...]
5 Signs You Are Seeking Your Own Glory and Not God’s
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). Our college ministry staff has been reading the classic Campus Crusade book “Principles God Honors” by Jim Sylvester. In the book, his first principle is: God honors Himself, not men. Sylvester writes of five signs that indicate you may be seeking your own glory more than God’s glory. I have struggled with each of these issues and suffered the consequences of them. I pray that this article will serve as a warning to those of us in … [Read more...]
Change Is Coming
CHANGE. The word either stirs deep excitement for new adventures and journeys ahead or strikes fear within the very depths of all that is known and comfortable. Regardless…change happens. Change is inevitable for us at different seasons of our lives. Change is part of the journey in following Jesus. However, it seems as though change happens more frequent and at a quicker pace in the young adult years. Graduations, new friends, switching jobs, paying bills, and finding a new church are all changes young adults face as they … [Read more...]
The Difficult Application of Matthew 6:33
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you” (Matthew 6:33). I remember the first time I heard Matthew 6:33. I was in a tiny mountain church in East Tennessee, and the 7-person choir was singing an old hymn. “…Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you, Allelu, Alleluia…” I remember thinking the old English sounded funny and that the ending was strange. Sadly, it was some time later before I discovered the … [Read more...]
2 Key Ways to Cultivate Spiritual Growth
Over spring break this year, I planted three pots of flowers. I bought seeds and dirt at Lowe’s and carefully followed the instructions on the seed packets about how deep to plant them and how to arrange the potting soil. I should probably say here that I am no gardener. In fact, it’s a good thing that the killing of plants isn’t punishable by law, because I am a repeat offender. But I want to get better at cultivating beautiful plants, so I keep on trying. The seed packets told me that I should see green shoots after 10-14 days. I … [Read more...]
How Does Jesus Respond to Your Doubt?
Now that same day two of them were on their way to a village called Emmaus, which was about seven miles from Jerusalem. Together they were discussing everything that had taken place. And while they were discussing and arguing, Jesus himself came near and began to walk along with them. But they were prevented from recognizing him. Then he asked them, “What is this dispute that you’re having with each other as you are walking?” And they stopped walking and looked discouraged (Luke 24:13-17). What a week it had been. It had been an … [Read more...]
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