Walter Lippman said, “The final test of a leader is that he leaves behind in others the conviction and will to carry on.”  As spiritual leaders we extend our influence and legacy through the investments we make in others.  If we are not mentoring, training, helping, and serving the next generation, we are limiting our influence to the temporary terrain of today, the here and now.  But authentic leadership sees beyond the temporary moment, it understands the importance of leading for tomorrow.

Spiritual influence is rarely measured in the lifespan of a particular man; it is rather measured in the …

If we are going to make an impact in the lives of young people, we must do it quickly, emphatically, and intentionally –they grow up pretty fast, and if you don’t influence their faith, heart, and mind at a tender age, it is certain, someone else will.  In the five years I have been at Cross Roads, I have seen many of our youth grow and mature into fine young Christians.  When you consider the context of their daily lives, such spiritual growth is a praise-worthy accomplishment.

Their world is vastly different than the world of their parents.  The culture …

I am writing this after the close of one of the best Youth Sunday’s we have had at our church.  Recently we have had several of our young men called to the ministry: one on the mission field, one into youth ministry, one into the pastorate, and several surrendered to full-time Christian service.  I praise the Lord that He is still speaking to those who will hear His voice.

Such surrender however, does not come without spiritual investments.

I am thankful for parents who contend with busy calendars, hectic schedules, and multiple obligations. I am thankful that they prioritize church …