Deal with the Sin, but First Remove the Shame

I had someone ask me how we could drive home the fact that using porn is sinful without shaming the individual. Is there a way, even in the midst of habitual sinful behavior that goes directly against what God commands, in which we can show love, respect, and compassion for the person and remain strong in our stance for righteousness …

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Get Out Of The Way!

I have been sporadically filling in at a local church, that is between worship leaders, and this week is the last time I will be doing this.  They hired a person that they decided to move forward with and so my stint there is virtually over. However, a situation presented itself and I am sure it …

Jail Break!

Paul and Silas - this is such a familiar story, but just let me make a point.  They were in the deepest part of the jail, in maximum security, shackled hand and foot, after having been severely beaten. I am sure it was damp and there were rats and other vermin, the food was moldy, and …

Grow Up!

My wife said something to me yesterday. "Thank you for growing up, and becoming a man."  ...well, it was something to that effect.  On first glance that might seem like an insult and, in a certain context and depending how it's said, it could be. But this wasn't. It was sincere and appreciative for the steps …

What’s The Rush?

Ecclesiastes 3 is one of the most well-known passages in the Bible.  It has been quoted over and over as preachers speak on it and even secular songs have been written about it.  It's premise is, "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven..." I was in the middle of processing some grief when …

Steppin’ On Toes

Jeremiah; the young prophet who, in his reluctance to be a mouthpiece for God, made excuses for being able to follow His leading.  It was a difficult word that was given him to preach to the children of Israel. Their rebellion and outright idolatry was to be punished, and Jeremiah was to be the herald of this coming doom.  Each reason he gave for …

Before You Take The Stage

I don't care if you turn on the lights in the sanctuary, straighten the chairs, play the drums, sing, or run the audio system; we all have a great responsibility to be prepared spiritually for the worship services in which we participate.  If  you are involved in the presentation of God to your local congregation, you are a worship leader.  It …