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Category: Leadership (Page 2 of 20)

Top 3 Ways to Overcome Doubt and Strengthen Your Faith

March 4, 2025 / / 0 Comments

If we’re being honest, everyone wrestles with doubt at some point. Whether it’s questioning God’s timing, His goodness, or if He’s even listening, doubt creeps in when life throws curveballs. Maybe your prayers feel unanswered, or the world seems too broken to believe God is in control. Here’s the good news: doubt isn’t the enemy of faith—doubt can actually deepen faith when you face it head-on.

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, you’re not alone. The Bible is filled with people who questioned, doubted, and struggled… and the cool part is God met them right there. Here are three practical ways to overcome doubt and strengthen your faith when life gets a little shaky.

1. Bring Your Doubts to God (Yes, He Can Handle Them)

You don’t need to hide your doubts from God. He already knows what’s on your mind, so you might as well be honest. The Psalms are full of raw prayers like, “How long, Lord? Will You forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1). God doesn’t get offended by your questions. In fact, He invites them.

When doubt creeps in, talk to Him. Say, “God, I don’t understand this. I’m struggling to trust You right now. Help me see what I’m missing.” That kind of honesty builds a real relationship. Doubt isn’t a sign of weak faith; pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t is what holds you back.

Pro tip: Write your doubts in a journal. Sometimes putting them on paper helps you see things more clearly—and you might notice how God answers over time.

2. Surround Yourself with People Who Build Your Faith

Doubt thrives in isolation. When you’re left alone with your thoughts, negativity and questions can and likely will spiral. That’s why community matters. Surround yourself with people who encourage you, pray with you, and point you back to God when you can’t see Him clearly. Sitting alone or pushing friends away in moments of fear or weakness rarely works to your benefit!

This is where being part of a church family, a growth group, or youth group (if you’re a student) makes all the difference. Sometimes you need someone else to carry the faith for you when yours feels weak. We weren’t meant to do this journey alone.

Bonus tip: Ask a trusted friend or mentor how they’ve navigated their own doubts. You’ll be surprised how common it is—and how their story can strengthen yours.

3. Look Back at God’s Faithfulness (Your Past Reminds You of His Track Record)

When doubt starts to take over, it helps to remember where God has come through in the past. Think about challenges you thought you’d never get through… but you did. That wasn’t by accident. Often God uses your past struggles to set you up for what you’re going through today.

God has a proven track record of faithfulness. Recalling how He worked in your life (or in others’ lives) fuels trust for the future. In the Old Testament, people would build altars or memorial stones to remind themselves of God’s help. You might not have a pile of rocks in your yard, but you can keep a list of answered prayers or moments when God showed up.

Encouragement: When you can’t see what God is doing now, look back on what He’s done before. His character doesn’t change—if He was faithful then, He’ll be faithful now.

Doubt doesn’t disqualify you from faith. It’s a part of the journey. What matters is what you do with it. Bring your questions to God, lean on your community, and remind yourself of how He’s come through before.

Faith isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about trusting the One who does. And guess what? He’s got you. Even in the doubt. Even in the questions. Keep pressing in. You might just find your faith growing stronger than you ever imagined.

Busy Is the New Lazy

February 24, 2025 / / 0 Comments

“I’d love to help, but I’m just too busy.”
“I really want to get more involved…but life is crazy right now.”
“I know I should spend more time with God, but there’s just so much going on.”

Sound familiar?

We’ve all said it. Life moves fast—work deadlines, family commitments, kids’ activities, social obligations. There’s always something demanding our attention. But here’s the truth: Busyness, while understandable, can easily become an excuse to not try.

If we’re not careful, being “too busy” becomes the reason we stop serving, stop growing, stop connecting, and stop worshiping.

Busy Isn’t the Problem—It’s our Priorities

The hard reality? We make time for what matters most to us.

We rarely “forget” to eat or skip our favorite shows. We carve out time for what fills us—whether that’s entertainment, hobbies, or scrolling through our phones. So why does time with God, serving others, or gathering for worship so easily get pushed to the bottom of the list?

Jesus lived a full life. Crowds followed Him, people constantly sought His help, and His mission was nothing short of saving the world. Yet, He still made time to step away, pray, and prioritize His relationship with the Father (Luke 5:16).

If Jesus needed that space, how much more do we?

Busyness Can Quietly Erode Your Spiritual Life

We tell ourselves, “It’s just a busy season—it’ll slow down soon.” But if we’re honest, another season of busyness always follows. The enemy doesn’t always need to tempt us with obvious sin; sometimes, he just keeps us distracted enough to prevent spiritual growth.

Think about it:

  • How often do you say, “I just don’t have time to pray,” yet find time to scroll social media?
  • How many weekends fill up with activities, while worship and community with believers take a backseat?
  • How often do good things—work, family events, hobbies—crowd out the best thing: time with God?

These are hard questions, not to induce guilt, but to invite reflection. Life will be full—but is it full of the right things?

Let’s Be Honest

We all juggle responsibilities. No one’s asking you to neglect work or family. But what if being “too busy” for God actually points to misplaced priorities rather than a packed schedule?

What if, instead of saying, “I don’t have time,” we just simply admitted, “It hasn’t been a priority”? It’s uncomfortable—but it’s also freeing. When we’re honest about what matters most, we can make meaningful changes.

Jesus asked, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Mark 8:36).

Busyness might help us achieve goals, advance careers, or keep our families entertained—but if it costs us intimacy with God or the Spiritual wellbeing of our kiddos, is it really worth it?

Parents: Your kids notice what you prioritize. Making time for worship and spiritual conversations speaks louder than any lecture.
Professionals: No promotion is worth spiritual exhaustion. Your faith life will be there far after your new raise.
Students: Your schedule feels packed now, but forming good habits today shapes you for a healthy future.

Let’s Get Practical

You don’t need a complete life overhaul—just a few intentional steps:

✅ Reflect on Your Time: Where do the hours go? (Check your screen time or your calendar—you might be surprised.)
✅ Prioritize Worship: Sunday worship isn’t just another item on the to-do list—it’s soul-filling fuel. Missing periodically should be just that, periodically. I have to commend those people who I see come on Sunday even though they have to leave early. Making worship a priority, even if you have to scoot before it’s over, is a huge step in the right direction!
✅ Say “No” So You Can Say “Yes”: Not everything deserves your “yes.” Protect space for what truly matters. I heard one time that every yes represents a no somewhere else. By saying “yes” to this one thing, what are you also saying “no” to?
✅ Schedule God-Time: Put Scripture reading and prayer on your calendar like any other important appointment.

Let’s Not Miss What Matters

One day, the meetings, practices, and deadlines won’t matter. But your relationship with Jesus—that one’s gonna last forever.

Being busy isn’t a sin—but being too busy for God robs you of joy, peace, and even purpose. Let’s not settle for lives so full of “stuff” that we miss the fullness of life in Christ.

So here’s the gentle challenge: What’s one thing you can adjust this week to make more room for God?

You’ll never regret putting Him at the center of all you do.

Control What You Can, Drop the Rest

February 13, 2025 / / 0 Comments

You’re stressing over things you have zero control over. And it’s killing your joy. It’s thwarted your productivity. And your peace of mind is anything but peaceful! You’re worried about what people think of you, the economy, the weather, the political climate, the price of eggs, the latest social media drama—things that are completely out of your hands.

It’s time to stop. Right now.

Instead, focus on the one thing you can actually do something about: YOU.

What’s In Your Control?

We need to be totally honest about what’s actually within our power. You have 100% control over:

  • Your attitude – Nobody forces you to be bitter, resentful, or negative. That’s a choice. So is gratitude, positivity, and resilience. Choose wisely!
  • Your actions – You decide if you’re going to show up, follow through, and be consistent. No one makes that decision for you.
  • Your honesty – Telling the truth isn’t just moral; it simplifies your life. Lies pile up. Integrity is simple.
  • Your time management – Being on time isn’t about traffic, kids, or circumstances. It’s about priorities and respect. Plan ahead. Set alarms. Leave early. Be on time!
  • Your health habits – What you eat, how much you move, when you go to bed—these are all choices you make. No one is forcing you to eat garbage, skip workouts, or doom-scroll until 1 AM.
  • Your discipline – Success isn’t about motivation; it’s about discipline. You won’t always “feel” like doing what needs to be done. Do it anyway. Doing the hard thing when you don’t want to is often the time you grow the most.

What’s NOT In Your Control?

Here’s where people lose their minds—obsessing over things that will never be in their control:

  • Other people’s opinions – Listen closely. You could be the most perfect, kind, talented human on the planet, and someone will still dislike you. Ever heard of Jesus? Yeah they killed him because he was too kind! Stop living for approval that will never fully come.
  • The weather – Complaining about it won’t change it. Dress accordingly and move on. Grab an umbrella. Put on a sweatshirt. Turn on the fan.
  • Traffic – You’re not parting the Red Sea anytime soon. Plan for it or accept it. People won’t drive like you so complaining won’t matter. You could always just move to a location where your biggest traffic concern is a combine or three ladies riding horses down the road – that’s exactly what I did.
  • The past – Regret changes nothing. Learn from it, own your mistakes, and move forward. Failure does not have to be fatal if you learn from it and make the necessary adjustments.
  • Other people’s behavior – You can’t make people kinder, smarter, more considerate, or more rational. That’s their business, not yours. If people cross your values, you can easily love them from a distance.

The Cost of Trying to Control the Uncontrollable

When you waste energy on things you can’t change, you rob yourself of energy for the things you can. Your mental bandwidth is limited. Do you really want to use it worrying about someone’s comment on Facebook or whether it’s going to snow in Ohio…in January?!

When you hyper-focus on things beyond your reach, you become frustrated, anxious, and exhausted. Meanwhile, the things you CAN control—your habits, your mindset, your discipline—they all fall apart. That’s how you wake up one day feeling stuck, bitter, and overwhelmed.

Freedom

You want peace? Focus on what’s in your hands. When you take ownership of what you can control and release the rest, life gets simpler. You have more clarity, less stress, and a deeper sense of purpose. You start making real progress because your energy is spent on things that actually move the needle forward.

So today, right now, make the decision:

  • Stop obsessing over things you can’t change.
  • Start owning the things you can.
  • Be on time. Eat well. Exercise. Drink your water. Tell the truth. Get to bed at a decent hour. Show up for yourself and others.

That’s the stuff that changes your life.

Everything else? Let It Go Elsa!

Your Disorder Might Be Your Superpower

February 5, 2025 / / 0 Comments

When I was growing up I loved superheroes. Whether it was Superman or Batman, I would run through the house and around the outside thinking I could fly. Just about every little tyke wanted to be invincible and have lasers for eyes with superhuman strength. Then we were told that no one could be superhuman like that. But what if they were wrong? What if you had a superhero tendency that the world called a disorder?

I’ve never been clinically diagnosed as having ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) but when I look at descriptions I’m pretty much a textbook case. I was never medicated for being fidgety in school or unable to focus in class. For that I thank my parents! The more I read, the more I believe that ADHD is grossly misunderstood. The very name implies a problem—a “deficit” or “disorder” that needs treatment or management. But what if we’ve been looking at it all wrong? What if ADHD isn’t a condition to fix but a superpower to harness?

Some of the world’s greatest innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives exhibit the very traits associated with ADHD. Their ability to think outside the box, generate ideas rapidly, and adapt to changing circumstances has propelled them to success. What some people see as chaos is the very environment in which some of the greatest innovations have been birthed. The key isn’t suppression—it’s learning to channel this incredible energy in the right direction.

Embrace the Gift of Hyperfocus

While ADHD is often associated with difficulty concentrating, it also comes with the remarkable ability to hyperfocus. When something captures your interest, you can become so deeply immersed that hours fly by without notice. This level of intense focus can lead to extraordinary creativity and productivity.

The trick is to set yourself up for success by working on tasks you’re passionate about and structuring your environment to minimize distractions. When you find your flow, let hyperfocus propel you forward. What can you do for hours and totally get lost in the moment? What types of activities can you do without even having to tune out the world?

Creativity Without Limits

People with ADHD are wired to think differently. Their minds make connections that others might overlook, leading to fresh ideas and innovative solutions. In creative fields like design, writing, or problem-solving, this ability to think outside the box is a game-changer.

I tend to call myself a chaos creator. A willingness to fail a million times in an effort to see the one direction I’m really supposed to move is a gift that I attribute to this ADHD tendency to have limitless creativity.

If you have ADHD, don’t stifle your creative impulses. Lean into them. Brainstorm, sketch, experiment, and create without self-censorship. Your unique perspective is a gift the world needs. This “disorder” is not a disease when it’s harnessed for productivity.

Boundless Energy: A Source of Momentum

From fidget spinners to stress balls to bouncing knees incessantly, this restlessness and need for movement are often seen as challenges for people with ADHD, particularly in structured environments like classrooms or offices. But that energy can be a huge asset when channeled properly.

Use physical activity as a way to reset and refocus. Take breaks to move your body, go for walks, or engage in activities that help you release energy. Many people with ADHD find that incorporating exercise into their daily routine supercharges their productivity and mood. Think outside the box a little. If you’re a restless fidgeter, do your meetings while taking a walk. Take phone calls while strolling through a park.

I work at a church that has a decently long driveway. When the weather is nice, I’ll walk to the mailbox 3-5 times a day just to get up and move. I’ll tap into a podcast or listen to a chapter in an audiobook while on the stroll. It became a joke whenever I’d get up to step out to “check the mail.” My coworker would laugh when she realized I was just a tad restless and simply needed to walk.

Resilience and Adaptability

Living with ADHD often means facing and overcoming challenges that others may not experience. But these challenges build resilience and adaptability—two essential qualities in a fast-changing world.

People with ADHD are often skilled at thinking on their feet and finding creative solutions when plans go awry. Their ability to adapt quickly to new situations can make them invaluable in dynamic environments.

I remember the starting days of the pandemic of 2020. We had a word that we used all the time in our context – pivot. We would pivot a dozen times a day. Pivot was a nice way to say what we were trying wasn’t working so we tried something else. This resilience and adaptability was demonstrated with each pivot on the leadership journey.

Building the Right Systems

Harnessing the power of ADHD requires finding tools and systems that work for your unique brain. Traditional methods of time management, like rigid schedules or to-do lists, may not be effective. Instead, here are a few strategies I find helpful:

  • Visual reminders and calendars
  • Task management apps
  • Breaking tasks into smaller steps
  • Using timers to stay on track
  • Working while moving

Finding the right system takes experimentation, but once you do, it can transform your daily life.

Rewrite the Narrative

The most important shift is in mindset. ADHD doesn’t have to be viewed as a disorder that holds you back. It’s not a disease that you have to medicate your way out of. It’s a different way of experiencing the world—a way that comes with its own strengths and advantages.

When we stop trying to “fix” ADHD and start harnessing its unique gifts, we unlock potential that can change lives, careers, and communities.

Superpower Activated

The world needs innovators, dreamers, and people who think differently. ADHD gives you a perspective and energy that can move mountains when harnessed effectively.

Don’t try to fit into a mold that wasn’t designed for you. Instead, lean into your strengths, celebrate your uniqueness, and unleash the superpower within you. The world is needs a superhero like you.

Jesus Should Not Be First

January 13, 2025 / / 1 Comment

Jesus does not want to be first in your life. That might sound shocking, but it’s the truth. Jesus doesn’t ask for first place—He demands the only place. Why? Because He’s not interested in being a slice of your life’s pie chart. He’s not satisfied with being another line item on your endless to-do list. He’s not here to share space with your career, hobbies, relationships, or even your family.

The first commandment makes it painfully clear:
“You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3)

The Hebrew here is intense. “Before me” literally means “in My face.” God’s saying, “Don’t you dare put anything in My face that tries to compete with Me.” He’s not interested in your priorities; He’s claiming everything.

Here’s the harsh reality: we’ve turned our lives into idol factories. We’re constantly elevating good things—family, work, fitness, finances—into god things. And we love to rank them:

  1. God
  2. Family
  3. Career
  4. Hobbies

That’s a nice, neat little list isn’t it? It feels spiritual. It feels balanced. But it’s a lie. If Jesus is just a “first among equals,” you’ve completely missed the point. He’s not “first.” He’s everything.

Let me say it another way: If Jesus isn’t your everything, He’s nothing. He doesn’t share the throne. He’s not a consultant for your life plan. He’s the King who demands full allegiance.

The Danger of “First”

When we say Jesus is “first,” what we really mean is, “I’ll give Him a little time, energy, and attention, but I’ve got other stuff to do.” We check the box by going to church, reading a quick devotional, or tossing a few bucks into the offering plate. Then we get back to building our own kingdoms.

But Jesus doesn’t want a piece of your life—He wants the whole thing. That’s why He said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

Deny yourself. Not rearrange your priorities. Not carve out a little Jesus time. Not give Him first dibs. Deny yourself. That means your dreams, your goals, your plans, and yes, even your family, take a back seat to Him.

“No Other Gods” Means NO Other Gods

If we’re being honest, we all have gods in our lives. Some are obvious, like money, success, or relationships. Others are sneakier, like control, comfort, or even religion and tradition. And every single one of them is a direct violation of this first commandment. God doesn’t want your idols managed—He wants them destroyed.

Jesus says it this way. “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.” (Matthew 6:24)

There’s no middle ground. You can’t serve Jesus and your career. You can’t serve Jesus and your ego. You can’t serve Jesus and your comfort. You can’t serve Jesus and your tradition. It’s Him or nothing.

So what does it look like to live with Jesus as the only? It’s simple, but it’s not easy:

  • Surrender daily. Start each day by laying your plans, desires, and ambitions at His feet. One way to do this is through prayer. Just start your day with Lord today I need… Then fill in the blank and let God take it from there. Only caveat is that blank has to be something you cannot touch, so no Porsche or Lambo friends!
  • Hold everything loosely. Your family, career, possessions, and even traditions are gifts from God, not gods themselves. Treat them accordingly. When these things help you serve God, they are good things. When they distract you from God, they are god things.
  • Obey without excuses. Stop bargaining with Jesus. When He calls, answer. When He commands, act. No more excuses. It’s time for full on devotion.

Living this way will wreck your life—in the best way possible. It will strip away the false gods you’ve been clinging to and replace them with the only One worth worshiping.

Ok, so here’s the bottom line. Jesus doesn’t want to be first in your life. He wants to be the only. The first commandment isn’t a suggestion; it’s a declaration of war! War against every competing affection in your heart.

So stop ranking Him. Stop fitting Him into your schedule. Stop treating Him like a task to check off. Tear down the idols, clear the stage, and let Him reign as the one true King.

Because if Jesus isn’t the only, He isn’t anything.

Stop Non-Viting and Start Inviting

January 10, 2025 / / 0 Comments

The need for evangelism in churches has never been greater. People are desperate for hope, searching for meaning, and drowning in the chaos of life. The church has the answer: Jesus. Yet, too often, we fumble the ball when it comes to the most crucial part—inviting people into the life-changing power of the Gospel.

Too many believers think they’re doing evangelism when they say, “You should come sometime.” That’s not evangelism. That’s not even inviting. It’s non-viting.

Non-Vitation: The Lazy Evangelism Killer

Non-vitation is the ultimate cop-out. It sounds good in the moment, but it’s vague, noncommittal, and accomplishes nothing. You know the line, maybe you’ve even used it:

  • “You should come to my church sometime.”
  • “We’ve got great messages; you’d like them.”
  • “Yeah, my church is doing some cool stuff. You should check it out.”

The problem? There’s no invitation! No date, no time, no event, no urgency. You might as well be inviting them to the grand opening of a coffee shop that doesn’t exist.

Non-vitation is why people nod politely and then never show up. It’s why churches see empty pews and declining attendance. It’s why the Gospel is sitting on the sidelines while the world spirals out of control.

Invitation: The Evangelism Game-Changer

It’s time to ditch non-vitation and embrace invitation. Invitation is specific, personal, and compelling. It’s not “you should come sometime.” It’s “Hey, I’d love for you to join me this Sunday at 10:30. We’re talking about hope in hard times, and I think it could really encourage you.”

But invitation doesn’t stop there. It’s not just about getting them in the door. It’s about being there for them when they show up and investing in the relationship. If you invite someone to church, make sure you’re available to meet them at the entrance. Sit with them. Explain what’s happening in the service. And when it’s over, join them for lunch. That’s how relationships are built. That’s how the Gospel becomes real to someone.

I mean look – Jesus didn’t say, “Hey, you should come check out the kingdom of God sometime.” He said, “Come, follow me.” His invitations were personal and direct. They required a response. And guess what? People followed.

Why Evangelism Matters Now More Than Ever

The need for evangelism in churches has never been more urgent. Our world is fractured. Families are struggling. Anxiety, depression, and hopelessness are at an all-time high. The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.

Evangelism isn’t just a “nice idea” or a box to check on your Christian to-do list. It’s the heartbeat of the church. Without it, we’re just a holy huddle, a club for the already-convinced.

People need Jesus, and they need you to invite them to meet Him. That’s not someone else’s job. It’s yours. If you’re waiting for a sign, this is it.

Three Steps to Stop Non-Viting and Start Inviting

  1. Be Specific:
    Stop being vague. Name a date, a time, and a place. “Come to Easter service at 9 AM,” or “Join me for our family movie night this Friday.” Make it easy for people to say yes.
  2. Be Personal:
    People don’t just want generic flyers or mass emails. They want you. A personal invitation from someone they know and trust is 10 times more powerful than any social media post or billboard.
  3. Be Relational:
    Don’t stop at the invite. Free up your schedule to be there when they arrive. Sit with them. Answer their questions. Take them to lunch afterward and build the relationship. Evangelism isn’t just about attendance; it’s about connection.

Every non-vitation is a missed opportunity. Every vague, half-hearted “you should come sometime” leaves someone stuck in their pain and searching for answers. That’s the cost of non-vitation.

But the reward of invitation? Lives changed. Hearts healed. Families restored. That’s what happens when you step up and say, “Come and see.”

Let’s Get Serious

Friends, we can’t afford to sit back and hope people wander in. We can’t rely on programs, social media ads, or the “cool factor” to do the work for us. Evangelism is our job. Discipleship isn’t discipleship without inviting others into the journey.

So stop non-viting. Start inviting. Be specific. Be personal. Be relational. The world is waiting, and Jesus is ready to change lives.

What are you waiting for? Make the invitation today.

You Attract Who You Are, Not Who You Want to Be

January 6, 2025 / / 0 Comments

The life you’re living, the relationships you’re building, and the people you’re surrounded by are not random. They’re a mirror. Not of who you wish you were, but of who you actually are.

Some of us need to read that again. Here’s another way to say it.

You don’t attract the people or circumstances you dream about; you attract the ones that resonate with the person you’ve become. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but it’s also the wake-up call most of us need.

“Wanting” Isn’t Enough

We all have big dreams. Maybe you want to surround yourself with healthy, driven, God-centered people. Maybe you’re praying for a partner who’s spiritually mature, compassionate, and ambitious. But here’s the kicker: simply wanting those things isn’t enough.

Imagine you’re in a coffee shop, sitting across from the person you want to become. That person exudes kindness, confidence, and discipline. Now imagine that person looking at you. Do they see someone who’s walking in alignment with those qualities? Or do they see someone just wishing for them?

The truth is, the gap between who you are and who you want to be isn’t closed by hope—it’s closed by transformation. It takes work and self discipline.

The Hard Truth About Self-Awareness

If you’re frustrated by your current circle or circumstances, it’s time to look in the mirror. Are you stuck in toxic relationships? Do you feel like you’re surrounded by people who don’t share your values or energy? That’s not always just about them. It’s often about you. Trust me I’ve preached this message to myself before typing it so it’s not intended to be condemning rather eye opening.

Proverbs 27:19 puts it plainly: “As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.” Your life is a direct reflection of what’s in your heart—your fears, your habits, your priorities. If you’re not seeing what you want in the people around you, it’s often a neon sign pointing back to areas in your own life that need some attention.

It’s not about judgment; it’s about alignment.

The brutal reality is that people don’t flock to what you say you want to be—they’re drawn to who you are. If you’re complaining that you’re stuck in shallow friendships, ask yourself if you’ve been a deep friend to someone else. If you’re complaining about a lack of spiritual depth in your life, how consistent have you been in your own time with God?

You attract the energy you emit. That’s not some fluffy, self-help nonsense. It’s biblical. Galatians 6:7 reminds us: “A man reaps what he sows.” If you want to be surrounded by people who inspire you, you have to sow seeds of inspiration in your own life, and in the lives of others.

Want to attract people who prioritize growth? Then you better be actively growing. Want relationships centered on grace and love? Then start showing grace and love, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable.

It’s About Alignment

When you begin to live in alignment with your values and your faith, something incredible happens: you stop chasing the wrong things. You no longer feel the need to “force” connections or relationships because the right ones naturally flow into your life.

Think about Jesus. He didn’t chase people down, begging them to follow Him. His life, His character, and His mission attracted people who were hungry for truth, healing, and purpose. The Pharisees, on the other hand, couldn’t handle Him because their hearts weren’t aligned with His.

Who you are attracts or repels people in the same way.

Five Tips To Live In Alignment

So, how do you attract better? How do you align with the person you want to be?

  1. Audit Your Habits: What you consistently do shapes who you are. Are your daily habits leading you closer to the life and relationships you want, or are they dragging you further away?
  2. Evaluate Your Inner Circle: Your closest relationships influence your mindset and behaviors more than you realize. If your circle isn’t challenging you to grow, it’s time to level up.
  3. Do the Hard Work: Growth isn’t always glamorous. It’s waking up early to pray, apologizing when you mess up, and choosing discipline over comfort. It’s forgiving the person who hurt you and choosing joy when life feels heavy.
  4. Anchor Yourself in God’s Word: You can’t transform without God. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” If you want to attract God-honoring people and opportunities, you need to walk the path He’s lighting for you.
  5. Be Patient: Change takes time. You won’t attract a whole new circle overnight, but little by little, as you grow, your environment will shift.

You don’t attract what you want; you attract who you are. So if you’re tired of the same old patterns and relationships, stop looking outward and start looking inward.

Be the person you’d want to meet. Live the life you’d want to join. And most importantly, align yourself with the One who transforms hearts and renews minds. When you do, you won’t have to chase what you desire—it will find you.

The question isn’t, “Who do I want to attract?” The question is, “Who am I becoming?”

3 Ways to End the Year with Grace

December 30, 2024 / / 0 Comments

As the year winds down, it’s natural to reflect on the 12 months that are now in the rearview mirror. For some of us, it feels like we just blinked and suddenly December is over! For others, this year might have felt like climbing a steep hill—slow and challenging. Wherever you land on that spectrum, the way we end one year and begin another matters more than we might realize. It sets the tone for our lives, families, and our faith journeys.

Here are three simple ways to finish this year well and start the new one on the right foot (or the left one if you’d prefer):

1. Reflect and Celebrate God’s Faithfulness

Psalm 77:11 says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.” (ESV) Reflection is a spiritual discipline that allows us to pause and recognize God’s faithfulness in our lives. Even in the hardest seasons, there are moments of grace worth celebrating.

Take some time this week to write down your “God Moments” from the year. Maybe it was an answered prayer, a new relationship, or even finding peace in a difficult situation. Share these moments with your family or friends. Celebrate them! I’ve heard it said that we replicate what we celebrate.

Ending the year in gratitude prepares our hearts to embrace the new year with hope and trust in God’s continued faithfulness. Gratitude isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a transformative practice that reshapes how we see the world and God’s work in it.

2. Clear the Clutter

Hebrews 12:1 reminds us to “lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely.” (ESV) That’s not just a verse for Lent; it’s an invitation for daily living. As you prepare to step into the new year, consider what might be cluttering your life—both spiritually and physically.

Spiritually, is there unforgiveness you need to let go of? Habits that pull you away from God? Relationships that need mending? Take time to pray and release those burdens to God.

Physically, go through that closet, garage, or junk drawer you’ve been avoiding. It’s amazing how decluttering our spaces can create mental clarity and a sense of renewal. Plus, donating items you no longer need blesses others and reflects Christ’s generosity.

Starting the year with a clean heart and clean spaces makes room for God to do new and exciting things in your life.

3. Set Intentional Goals with God in the Center

Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (ESV) Goals are great, but goals without God’s guidance often leave us feeling frustrated or aimless. As you look ahead, take some time to pray over your plans for the new year.

What areas of your life need more of God’s presence? Maybe you want to deepen your prayer life, read through the Bible, or serve in a new ministry at church. Write down your goals and ask God to lead you in them. Don’t forget to include your family in this process. Talk about what goals you can pursue together, like family devotions or serving your neighborhood. Then share them with someone who can hold you accountable. A goal worth making is a goal worth accomplishing!

And remember: grace over perfection. The goal isn’t to have it all figured out by January 1st or December 31st for that matter. It’s to walk faithfully with Jesus one step at a time.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to welcome a new year, let’s do so with hearts full of gratitude, lives freed from clutter, and goals anchored in God’s plans. No matter what this past year has held, God has been with us every step of the way, and His promises remain sure as we step into the future.

May this be the year where we grow deeper in our faith, love our neighbors more intentionally, and see God work in ways we couldn’t even imagine. Let’s finish strong and step boldly into what God has for us next.

Happy New Year, friends! Let’s make it one that honors Him in every way.

Merry Christmas

December 25, 2024 / / 0 Comments

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, I find myself overflowing with gratitude for each of you. This past year, we’ve seen God’s hand moving powerfully in and through our church family. Together, we’ve lived out our mission to help busy families experience the grace of Jesus, and we’ve done so in ways that truly embody the joy and hope of this Christmas season.

This year has been one of growth and transformation. Our worship services continue to bring strangers into our community, and we’ve watched them become family. Our KidConnect Worship and Littles Connect Sunday school have taken on a new face, introducing more young hearts to Jesus’ love. We’ve supported parents with new ministries, and Delco Youth is reaching more young people than ever, helping them find meaning and hope in Christ. These aren’t just ministries—they’re evidence of God at work.

We’ve also laid some strong foundations for the future. With three full-time and one part-time staff members, our team is more equipped than ever to meet the needs of our growing church family. We’ve also been actively preparing for some significant ministry enhancements, which will serve both our members and our wider community. Our focus on families reflects a heart for bringing people closer to Jesus.

As we look forward, I’m excited about the blessings God has in store for us at Living Word Galena. Our vision to become a community focused church is coming to life. I see it in every smile, every hug, every handshake, and every story of transformation shared within these walls. The new year holds so much potential—not just in numbers, but in lives changed by the grace of Jesus.

Christmas reminds us that God stepped into our world to bring hope, peace, love, and joy. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let’s also celebrate the ways we’ve seen His light shine through our church family this year. Thank you for being part of this mission, for your prayers, your service, and your love for one another.

May this Christmas season be filled with His presence and the new year overflow with His blessings.

Pastor Derrick

Margin Matters

December 11, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Are you tired? Overwhelmed? Running on fumes? Let me be brutally honest with you—it’s probably your own fault. We (and yes I place myself in this category as well) tend to cram our lives full of stuff—appointments, errands, commitments, notifications, endless scrolling—and then wonder why we feel suffocated. The truth is, you’ve built a life with no breathing room. No margin.

And without margin, you’re not living—you’re surviving, barely.

Margin isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s the white space on the page, the pause in the music, the Sabbath in your week. Without it, everything blends into a chaotic blur, and you miss the moments that actually matter.

The Myth of More

We live in a culture that idolizes more. More productivity. More activities for the kids. More money. More accomplishments. But more isn’t making us happier—it’s making us miserable.

Here’s the kicker: the significant things in life—real relationships, awe-inspiring moments, hearing God’s still, small voice—rarely happen when you’re running at 110%. They happen in the margins.

Think about it:

  • That deep conversation with your son? It didn’t happen during soccer practice, piano lessons, and PTA meetings. It happened on the quiet drive home.
  • The time you truly connected with your spouse? It wasn’t during a whirlwind of errands. It was in the stillness of an unhurried evening.
  • That moment when God spoke to your heart? You weren’t rushing to the next thing. You were still, quiet, and listening.

When your life is too full, you bulldoze right over these sacred moments. You’re too busy with the minutia—emails, to-do lists, keeping up appearances—to notice the magnificent.

Let’s be honest for a second: most people don’t leave margin because it feels uncomfortable. We wear busyness like a badge of honor. If your calendar isn’t full, you feel unimportant. Lazy. Maybe even worthless.

But let me tell you something hard: filling your life with stuff is a lousy substitute for meaning.

Jesus didn’t run around like a headless chicken. He walked. He took time to pray. He noticed the lilies of the field and the birds of the air. His ministry was profound not because He was busy, but because He was present.

Five Simple Ways To Create Margin

  1. Say “No” and Mean It
    Stop being a people pleaser. Every “yes” to something unimportant is a “no” to what truly matters. Your time is precious—guard it like it’s your life (because it is).
  2. Ditch the Unnecessary
    Do you really need to binge another Netflix series? Spend hours scrolling Instagram? Join every committee at church? No. Free up that space for something meaningful.
  3. Schedule the Sacred
    Block off time for rest, relationships, and reflection. If it’s not on your calendar, it won’t happen. Treat this time as non-negotiable.
  4. Embrace Silence
    Turn off the noise. Put down your phone. Be still. You’ll be shocked at how much clarity comes when you stop trying to fill every moment.
  5. Rediscover Wonder
    Take a walk. Watch the sunset. Listen to your kid’s laughter. These things aren’t just filler—they’re the point.

God designed us to need margin. That’s why He gave us the Sabbath—not to burden us, but to free us. When you leave space in your life, you’re making room for God to move.

Psalm 46:10 doesn’t say, “Work harder and know that I am God.” It says, “Be still and know that I am God.” You can’t be still if you’re sprinting from one thing to the next.

A No So Simple Challenge

This week, I dare you—no, I double dare you—to cut something out of your calendar. Say no to one thing. Block off time to rest. Let go of your obsession with doing it all.

And in that space, watch what happens. You’ll start to breathe again. You’ll start to notice things. And maybe—just maybe—you’ll start to come alive again.

Margin isn’t optional. It’s where life happens. Don’t miss it.

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