The start of another year is steadily approaching.  Three hundred and sixty five days are soon to be gone, and like a Ferris wheel at the carnival, it will roll around again in like fashion.  The New Year is one of the most exciting times of the year.  I love the possibilities that wait for me, my family, and my church in these approaching days.

Like most of you, I have certain expectations, desires, and goals already lined up for 2014, and I want to do all I can to make those aspirations a reality.  There was a time in …

When I first met Heather I knew I wanted to marry her.  I had always heard about such sappy love stories, and thought such a notion was only written in the pages of a Hollywood manuscript.  But I can honestly say, I knew immediately that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her.  In those initial days, I did what many other guys were doing – I flirted with her.  You know what I mean, the subtle innuendos of romance…the sentimental gestures of infatuation: the winks, the calls, the goofy names.

More than likely, some form of …

Social media gives way for leaders to affect thousands of lives.  With just one post, one article, or one small comment, today’s leader can radically influence the thinking of his followers.  Needless to say, anyone who is in leadership should take great caution when it comes to their online presence.  Social media can be used in one of two ways for those in leadership: it can be a powerful force or a problematic farce.

I say “powerful force” because social media can help you rally your troops, promote good causes, expand your network, communicate truth, and encourage others, all while …

In just a few more weeks college football will come to an end.  The national champions will be crowned, the Heisman-winner will be awarded, and all the accolades will be dispersed.  Headlines will cease, statistics will stall, top stories will dissipate, and the limelight for many highly-recognized athletes will fade away.  It is called the off-season.

The off-season occurs in ministry as well.

Yes, there are those moments when everything clicks on all cylinders.  There are those sermons that touch every heart.  There are those Sundays that thrill us with spiritual zeal.  There are those times when it feels as …

TEXT: 1 THESSALONIANS 2:5-13

Introduction:

Paul described his approach in presenting the Gospel to the unbelievers at Thessalonica.  He was sincere, honest, and unpretentious as he not only gave them a message, but established relationships with them.

1. THE GOSPEL AND OUR MOUTHS (v5)

A. There Should be No Pretention- “For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know”

B. There Should be no Promotion- “nor a cloak of covetousness; God is our witness”

2. THE GOSPEL AND OUR MEEKNESS (v6)

A. We Shouldn’t be Boasting- “Nor of men sough we glory, neither of …