Another in the continuing series Intensely Local posts. Periodically, people ask me questions like, “What motivates you to be so intensely local in your focus of ministry?”  The reasons are too numerous to write about today. Part of the answer is simply “reading the Bible.” But an incident that happened in my neighborhood 6 six … More 18 Years of Ineffective Living

“When you ask God for His will to be done in your life, through your life, your whole life is at stake.” That’s when the adventure begins. (Revised from 2010) Source: Your Whole Life is at Stake

Revised from 5 years ago with new ideas and ice-breakers to help you build community in your neighborhood. Two of the neighbors are having parties. There are backyard tents, cars up and down the street, kids are playing in the street and it got me thinking … I’ve witnessed… Source: Starting Parties for Jesus and … More Starting Parties for Jesus and Your Neighbor’s Joy

July 2012 was a good time to think about transforming relationships with friends. So is today. Five foundational principles to transform your relationships with non-Christians.Cultivate the value of caring. Luke 10:25-37 —Many of us think that we care for others becaus… Source: How to Get to Know Non-Christians

Audio of my last message at Trinity Church. This falls into the category of a text and message I wish I could preach in every church in America.  Love you Trinity Church family. I wish you well. May our great God and Savior do a mighty work in, through, and all around you as you … More A Diagnostic Tool for the Soul

Here’s a good article that might help you to move up a few seats at church. I would add a number of other positives but this is a very good start. Encourage your pastor and your own heart, move to the front or just a few rows forward. You just might surprise yourself with how … More Why I sit at the front

Take your complaints to God. He can take it. Psalm 102:1–7 (ESV) A Prayer of one afflicted, when he is faint and pours out his complaint before the Lord. 1  Hear my prayer, O Lord; .      let my cry come to you! 2  Do not hide … Source: Why Doesn’t God Make it … More Why Doesn’t God Make it Easy?

Originally posted on Terry Ivy:
Without a doubt, John Wesley was one of the greatest influences within the history of Christianity. His passion, vision and organization was second to none in expanding the kingdom of God through missionary efforts and church planting. Wesley’s writings and pattern of church planting have had a huge impact on…

Thursday is for History and Inspiration [Repost from 2013]  Every age has its own challenges to faithfulness to the gospel. Most of what inconveniences and discomforts Christians in America does not rise to the level of… Source: Is it Time to “fall into the spokes of the wheel” in America?