It was John Bunyon who said, “You have not lived today unless you have done something for someone who cannot repay you.”  Giving is not just an act; it is an attitude, a mindset.  Giving may manifest itself in the form of an offering, pledge, or neatly wrapped present, but it is birthed in the heart and nurtured in the soul.  The person who constantly pours out the goodness of God from his life will never go wanting.

It has been frequently said that “God will give you to give more than He will give you to keep.” If this …

I have been curious about the work of Richard Swenson for some time.  He has written best-selling books Margin and In Search of Balance.  I typically read an author’s first books before reading a recent release; so when I saw his latest book, Contentment I was reluctant to purchase it without having read his previous works.  Something however compelled me to go ahead and buy it, and I am glad I did.  To be honest, I was not impressed with the title (c’mon, we could have come up with something a little more impressive than “Contentment”), but when you …

I would like to preface this article with a simple notion: not all complaining is bad.  If a school-bus driver speeds in your neighborhood there is reason to complain.  If you find a hair in your food at a restaurant, for the safety of others there is reason to complain.  If you are in great pain and are asked what level your discomfort is, you should complain about the pain in order to get the right treatment.  Again, I repeat, not all complaining is bad.  There are some complaints that are legitimate; but there is a vast difference between legitimate …

Our influence is felt most significantly by those closest to us.  This is especially true as it relates to our children.  Henry Ward Beecher said, “The humblest of individual exerts some influence; either for good or evil upon others.”  Regardless of how you influence your children, be certain, they are being influenced.  There are many factors in having a positive effect in their lives, but here are three keys that are certain to have long-lasting, and far-reaching results:

1. Time

Hanz Finzel said, “Only through association is there transformation- we cannot change people if we do not spend time …

The plague of our culture is busyness; and the ministry is no exception.  Meetings, study time, counseling, planning, organizing, appointments, social media, and many other responsibilities often distract us from quality time with our loved ones.  Therefore, we must plan, prioritize, and prepare our calendars cautiously.

Thomas Jefferson said, “The happiest moments of my life have been the ones I have spent at home in the bosom of my family.” I concur; I am the most content when I am with my wife and children.  Therefore, to ensure I invest my time wisely, I have to prioritize my calendar with …