Here is thoughtful pastor and blogger Ron Edmondson pointing out what I see among pastors nearly every week -- 10 potentially dangerous distractions.  I tried to rank them.  I can't.  All 10 are potentially quite destructive.

In my column today in the Champaign-Urbana News-Gazette, I argue that self-awareness is truly is invaluable.  I learned that late, but I got.  I'm still getting it.  And I'm so glad!

In the morning quiet, I like to read the Bible, write in my journal and sit quietly,asking God what it is that He and I are going to to today. I know he loves me and he likes it when I call him "abba," (daddy) ...  For those who are led by the Spirit of GodContinue reading "Jesus came to do what our mother tongue does…"

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)  -----Deliberately choosing to pray with thanksgiving (with a heart of gratitude) isContinue reading "Guard your heart and mind by choosing to be grateful"

A young pastor just asked me, "What's one thing you would have worked harder on earlier in your career?"Without even thinking I blurted out, "Self-awareness.""What do you mean?" he asked."Well, I think self-awareness is the ability to both recognize and understand your moods and your emotions.  My goodness, just think about your drives, your moodsContinue reading "Good self-awareness will get you a long way down the road"

2 Timothy 1:7 New International Version (NIV) 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.This verse is one of my fighter verses.  When I'm about to give in or quit or not be clear, I often go to this verse.  I remember that Paul exhortedContinue reading "Fight the good fight of faith"

“I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds” (Ps. 9:1).“Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!” (Ps. 105:1). God woke us up this morning, and for that we ought to all give thanks.  Peacemaker advocateContinue reading "Where are all the EGGs coming from?"

"We can’t become truly gutsy, courageous, until we accept the reality of death and consciously seek to live deeply and fully in its presence." says Mennonite writer Shirley Showalter in this simple, touching essay.