Great preachers are born, not made.   Good preachers are made, not born. Good preachers realize that the skills it takes to communicate well in the 21^st century demand continual work and effort. Wise pastors work at this craft of preaching, since it is a key element in the ever-ongoing work of leading congregational change. Communicating well Sunday after Sunday is fundamental to leading well...More 

Being human has its drawbacks.  Some things that are "just human nature" limit us or even cause us grief.  One common human tendency is to see things from our perspective.  It's natural and normal to see things from our perspective.  We see things from where we sit. We see things through the filters of our personalities and experiences.  This is so normal and natural you might ask, "Is it even possible to see things from another's perspective?" ... More  

One of the issues we talk about in our network on a regular basis is momentum.  Paul tells us to create and keep momentum, zeal, fervor in our ministries.  It's not a suggestion, it's a responsibility.  The direction the ministry takes -regardless of the circumstances- is the responsibility of the leader.  - Romans 12:11-12 (NIV) ... More  

Recently I was asked, "When do I know if it is time to give an employee a raise?" ... He wanted to know what the staff member could do to ensure giving would continue to be strong.  He also wondered what criteria to use so that he would know whether or not a staff member deserved a raise? ... More 

A Valuable Tax Credit for Churches? ... I shared a few months ago about the small employer benefit that is available because of the Health Care Reform provisions.  Speaking of the Health Care Reform Bill ....Another tax provision in the health care reform law is being targeted for repeal: Not allowing flex plans to reimburse employees for over-the-counter drugs ... & Why you need a Board of Director Meeting Minute Checklist....  More