Encouragement

Inflation is a significant challenge for almost all of us. After three years of inflation in excess of 6% annually, we are feeling the impact on our personal finances. Recent statistics are showing evidence that many families are relying on credit card and other forms of debt to finance the rising costs of daily life. Credit card debt balances are at record levels and savings levels are at historical lows. Here are 9 ways to win the inflation battle: 1. Give consistently, joyfully, and generously! Though it sounds counter intuitive, God challenges us in Malachi 3:10 to test Him in...

Being in Christian ministry can be both rewarding and satisfying, but it can also be challenging and difficult — leaving you exhausted or feeling like you are not accomplishing your goal of serving our Lord and Savior. So, what are some things you can do to keep your faith alive and help you stay motivated? I believe the secret is in combining spiritual faith and hope into all of our interactions. We grow in faith as we serve. In our dealings with children, it is by faith we keep planting seeds into their lives, and then we water and fertilize,...

Children play an important role in ministry for God. But that is often overlooked. We, as adults, have an opportunity to learn from them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come unto me.” He cared for children and wanted to have a relationship with them. He even told His followers that unless you have the faith of a child, you cannot enter the Kingdom of God. What is the faith of a child like? Until they have reason not to, children will believe what their parents tell them and follow their instructions, as they still possess a level of trust...

We all have situations in our lives that lead to financial stress. What do we do about it? The Bible is clear that God does not want us living with anxiety. Here are 5 keys to relieving financial stress in your life: 1. ASK “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV). Our first response to a financial challenge needs to be prayer. It is easy for us to want to...

In over two decades of ministry leadership, I have seen the benefits of game play in ministry from every angle. I’ve served as a camp counselor where lots of relationship building happened over multi-day games. I’ve organized and executed quick game play for Sunday school and mid-week programming. I’ve written dozens of games to coordinate with VBS themes. I’ve been the dad listening to my kids talk about a team building experience with their peers or a shared moment of victory during game play in ministry time. I love games. Most children’s ministry leaders incorporate games into a portion of...