The reasons Holy Week is hard for many people
For hundreds of millions of Christians around the world, this week symbolizes the very heart of our entire faith. But for some, this week with the most positive of meanings can still be a reminder of pain.
When God disciplines you
When something goes drastically wrong in our lives, we often wonder why God is punishing us.
From the depths of depression
The psalms are written as a balm for the soul. They demonstrate the cries to a God who does hear, who does understand. These words allow us to recognize that we are not alone.
The battle is calling you
The only place for you right now, as a field sergeant in the army of God, is on the battlefield.
Developing a hopeful faith during trials
Do you know how many times I've wanted to resign as the pastor of Saddleback Church? Just about every Monday morning.
3 tips if you’re feeling discouraged
Why am I here? Am I really the right person for this job? Why am I so busy, so stressed, so tired?
4 benefits of grieving during chaotic times
Knowing our weaknesses, God has given us the process of grieving that we might more easily and productively walk through the transformation required for our next assignment.
God has sculpted us this year
Christ has not been impervious to your pains and bruises from the pandemic, politics, or precautions. Jesus surely shared your heartache when you worked from home, or your business was shut down.
When plans get interrupted, what should you do?
I recall two experiences that interrupted my well laid-out plans. In the process, I also learned a few important life lessons.
In God we should trust
Election Day has come and gone. Do you know what this means? It means television ads are all about Christmas now.
The 4 promises of God when you need him
Many people today are asking, “Where is God?” It’s a legitimate question during a global pandemic—even pastors are likely asking the same thing.
Recovering the good in seasons of lament
Many can’t help but wonder where he is in these greatest moments of despair. Many find themselves questioning God’s presence, goodness, provision, and faithfulness.
The peculiar parable of Grandmother Ford
In this true story, a grandmother's emotional response left long-lasting scars in my childhood church. I wish a leader had stepped forward to prevent it.
3 tips for leading through crisis
A few years ago, I hit rock bottom. I learned three valuable lessons that forever changed how I lead both myself and others through crisis.
Leadership words that calm the storm
I was talking to a leader the other day whose organization had just gone through a major crisis.
Bearing the load by yourself?
Stressed, burdened, overwhelmed? Every leader feels this to some degree. Jesus wants to correct our perspective.
Living beyond the edge
If there was ever a year that screamed burnout at us, it has been 2020. I have seen it in my kids, family, coworkers and myself. We’ve pushed ourselves to a new edge.
4 characteristics of great leaders
If you’re a church leader, God has given you a task much bigger than you can handle on your own.
Don’t let your hearts be troubled in these troubling times
As followers of Christ, we know we’re supposed to be strong and courageous, but often we’re anxious and depressed. What do we do when fear still overwhelms us?
A prayer of desperation for America
O God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come, we bow before you because, honestly, we have no place else to go.
