August 6, 2008
Simply Challenging
Mark A. Taylor reflects on a gift-shop slogan, the cost of “living simply,” and the biblical call to stewardship, contentment, and freedom from the love of money.
Articles for tag: Gift
May 4, 2008
Connecting Good Deeds and Good News
Rick Rusaw reflects on how serving others can open doors for spiritual conversations, showing that good deeds and good news belong together in the church’s witness.
April 6, 2008
Public Prayer
Orrin Root reflects on the meaning and responsibility of public prayer, urging leaders to pray with sympathy, specificity, eloquence, and thoughtful preparation.
December 9, 2007
Leadership in the Church
Churches need leaders, but Scripture defines greatness as serving. Doyle Roth calls believers to trade titles and status for the towel and basin—leading people to Christ through humble, practical service.
Natural Thanksgiving
A reflection on why abundance can dull gratitude—and how Scripture points to thankfulness rooted in Christ, prayer, reverence, and joy “in all circumstances,” even when life changes through loss or hardship.
October 28, 2007
Extraordinary Living
A birthday reflection and a memorial service lead Lisa Jernigan to consider what makes a life extraordinary. Through Vera’s example, she points to unconditional love, sacrificial living, and a giving heart shaped by Christ.
August 15, 2007
Interview with Mike Prior: posted 8/15/2007
Mike Prior of Financial Planning Ministry explains wills, living trusts, and probate in plain English—and why estate planning can become a meaningful stewardship opportunity that strengthens local churches and ministry work over time.
July 29, 2007
Avoiding “˜I” Contact! (Do You See What I See!)
By Lisa Jernigan I recently attended a training conference for women themed, “The Masquerade.” We talked about the various masks women wear and how we have become very good at disguising who we really are. I spoke with a sweet older woman who seemed to show the spirit of Jesus. As we were talking she began to tear up as I complimented her genuine smile and sweet spirit. She graciously thanked me and said, “If you only knew my past.” Well, I didn’t and I couldn’t imagine that this gentle lady could have ever had a “past.” I said her
Are You Physically at Your Peak?
After a painful ministry season, Stephen Bond reflects on how neglecting health diminished his clarity and stamina. He argues fitness is spiritual stewardship and offers three practical guidelines for lasting discipline.
March 25, 2007
Teaching a Touchy Subject
Bob Russell explains how churches can preach on stewardship without sounding self-serving. Learn why timing matters, why total stewardship beats fundraising, and how mission-focused motivation can grow generosity.
March 25, 2007
Five Ways to Prepare Your People for a Stewardship Sermon
Bob Russell shares five practical tips for preaching about money with confidence—building leadership support, weaving stewardship into regular sermons, emphasizing integrity, and framing messages to help people understand money and giving.
June 4, 2006
Magic Pill
Using a “Magic Pill” metaphor, Arron Chambers explains why some churches prefer to stay small—avoiding change, cost, and shared leadership—and urges congregations to pursue healthy growth under Christ.
April 2, 2006
Saying the Last Good-bye to My Dad
By Paul E. Boatman I write these words at my dad”s bedside in early November. It is Tuesday morning at 5, and Russell Boatman”s death is expected within hours. He has seemed close to death several times in the past year, but this time the end of life seems imminent. His 91-year-old body is yielding to the inevitable outcome of living in a fallen world. He is resting fitfully, breathing in shallow gasps, and talking to himself about needing to “get going.” He clings to life with the tenacity of one who prizes life as God”s gift, yet he has
January 15, 2006
Prayer Is Powerful
Arron Chambers shares everyday stories and Jesus’ example in John 17 to show why prayer matters—for glory, protection, and unity—and invites believers to pray faithfully “until we die.”
October 2, 2005
How to Preach Like an Amateur
Eddie Lowen offers two preaching principles: sermons must be biblical (even if not narrowly expository) and must be personal, with integrity in how preachers use and credit sermon material.
September 25, 2005
A Dozen Ways to Encourage Your Minister
A dozen practical ways to support and encourage your minister and other spiritual leaders—through prayer, appreciation, helpful action, and a commitment to build up the body with love.
August 7, 2005
Helpful Words to Those Who Are Hurting
After losing his oldest son in a sudden accident, Chris DeWelt reflects on what grief feels like and shares practical, patient ways to walk with those who mourn—through presence, memories, notes, and Scripture.
July 24, 2005
Wisdom Is a Good Thing
Reflecting on Ecclesiastes and James, Tom Ellsworth shares how God teaches wisdom through life experiences, relationships, and hard seasons—inviting believers to hold on loosely to this life and keep eternity in view.
