Navigational Pastors Network

Jack Hayford Quotables from the NPN Conference

2011-10-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

Jack Hayford provided the NPN with some quotable thoughts.
Here are a few of them.

Dwayne Deskins tweeted:

God is not interested in you and me becoming a success — He's interested in us HELPING PEOPLE!

The need for self affirmation corrodes and erodes the soul.

Jon Jennings tweeted:

The church has not been called to wave a standard of justice in front of the world. We've been called to live one.

Comparison and competition are the greatest opponents of real success in our lives. They will turn us into critics or mimics.

The glory doesn't reside in our systems or structures, but in our simplicity of dependence on God.

Bishop Scott tweeted:

You were created from a distinct idea in the mind of God for a distinct purpose.

The standard should be that we are so open to the Holy Spirit, God never has to intrude.

The Greatest 2 Days of My Pastoral Life

2011-10-19T13:36:00.000-07:00

From Jon-Jennings.com
I had an amazing privilege this week. The Pastor’s Network I am part of worked out an arrangement where a small group of 15 Pastors were able to spend 2 days of intimate time with Jack Hayford. I’ve been to numerous conferences over the years that have had thousands in attendance with all of the bells and whistles one can imagine, but I can honestly say that these past 2 days practically one on one with Pastor Hayford were the greatest 2 days of my Pastoral life.

If you are not familiar with Jack Hayford’s ministry, a short history lesson is in order. Jack and his wife Anna came to Van Nuys, CA in 1969 to assume the Pastorate of a small 25 member church. Over the next 31 years of his leadership, The Church on the Way grew to a constituency of over 10,000 and Pastor Jack’s influence on the Pentecostal/Charismatic community reached epic proportions. Jack has published 53 books and written over 600 songs in the span of his ministry, but by far his best known song is “Majesty” published in 1981. CCLI recently listed “Majesty” as #7 on the all time list of worship songs used by churches in the entire world. That’s quite a statement when one realizes that “Amazing Grace,” “Shout to the Lord” and “How Great is Our God” are also in the top 10.

Beyond that, Jack was a key leader in the Promise Keepers march on Washington in 1994 which saw 1.4 million Christian men converge on our Nation’s Capitol. He also spearheaded what became known as “The Memphis Miracle” when racial reconciliation among key century-old Pentecostal denominations came to fruition. For the last 14 years, Jack has focused almost exclusively on pouring his life into small groups of Pastors and leaders in settings like I was part of this week. I literally felt as though I was sitting at the feet of a true modern day Apostle of the faith.

In many ways, the last 2 days was confirmation of the direction God has been leading me to shepherd our congregation at Fountain of Life yet I was also able to see adjustments I need to make in my life and leadership. It will take me weeks to distill everything that was imparted, but I can’t say enough about the awesomeness of the experience.

The highlight of the experience came last night as our group gathered at Pastor Jack’s home for dinner. The dinner was amazing, but after dinner we all gathered in the living room and listened for an hour and a half as Pastor Jack and Anna just talked about their marriage, family life and shared stories of how God had blessed them during the course of their ministry. At the very end, we asked if we could do something. Pastor Jack said yes, and we broke out in unison singing “Majesty”. I watched Pastor Jack raise his hands in worship with us and lift his voice to the King, still recognizing the awe and wonder of the one we serve with a song God gave him to touch the nations. Time stood still for those 3 minutes as I realized that I had just been part of perhaps a once in a lifetime experience.

I would trade all of my other conferences – Catalyst, Willow Creek and the host of others for two more great days like this. Unspeakable impartation.

You Represent Someone

2010-07-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

By Russell Hylton
John the Baptist was considered the "forerunner" of Jesus. He led a movement of baptism at the Jordan River, challenged sinful rulers, called for repentance and promised God's justice.

John pointed to the "Messiah" who was greater than himself. In essence, he represented Jesus and became a modern day "Public Relations" ambassador.

A true PR person will take on the DNA of the one they represent. Their words and actions will reveal their heart. They will embrace the vision of their leader and cast the vision to others. They will see their leader's mission as their own and will make it the center of their efforts.

When you are called to represent someone else (believe me...we are called to represent Christ, but to also represent a leader(s), group, organization, team, etc. during our lifetime) you must avoid speaking negatively. Negativity will never produce positive results.

Even if you experience the negative, you will only communicate the positive.

Think back to Samson when he passed through the vineyards of Timnath and defeated a lion with his hands. He didn't tell his father and mother about what he had done. After a time, he returned through the same vineyard and found the carcase of the lion and in it was a swarm of bees and honey. Samson ate of it and received enlightenment and then shared the honey with his parents. But notice, he only shared the "honey" not the "lion."

As we represent our leaders, we must do so with positive communication. Even if you don't understand your leader's decisions or actions at the time, you must represent your leader with truth and loyalty.

Each of us will be faced with this test. Whether or not you pass this test will depend entirely upon your ability to remain a pure representation of your leader even in the face of negative circumstances.

I've saved myself from many embarrassing moments and painful failures by simply thinking about a person in whom I greatly admire and saying..."would ___________ do this or say this?" Doing this has kept my feet from wrath and my actions loyal.

The blessing is found in "loyalty" and "right" representation.

Five Rules for Representation

Representatives must always represent the truth. - Ephesians 4:15
Representatives must always speak words that edify. (Build up) - 1 Corinthians 14:26
Representatives must never let their actions betray their words. - Matthew 7:3-5
Representatives must know what to say, how much to say, and when to say it. - 1 Corinthians 3:2
Representatives do not rehearse the failures of the past. They restate the goals of the future. - Philippians 3:13-14

Open Door Gathering

2009-12-30T02:19:00.000-08:00

Leadership meetings are vital in your church. However, those meetings, in order to be fruitful, must be purposeful. An organized effort of planning, strategy, evaluation and "where do we go from here" must be ironed out before the meeting comes to a close.

I systematically have entire leadership meetings and selective leadership meetings throughout the year - or as often as I can. "communicate, communicate, communicate & over communicate"

Recently, I tried a fresh approach to connecting with my leaders. Here's a sample email I sent them.

Greetings BFWC Leaders,

I will be hosting an open door gathering this eveing from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm for Ministry Coordinators in my office.

You are welcome to come by to say hello, ask a question, receive training or assistance for your ministry or just have a cup of coffee.

Sincerely,

Pastor Hylton

I was delighted to have several leaders stop during those two hours. Some received training and some just wanted to share with me what was happening in their life.

Hey Pastor....Sunday's coming!!

2009-12-18T07:18:00.000-08:00

I know it is not my week to post but I read this challenge on a blog by Perry Noble, Pastor of Newspring Church and it challenged me. Hopefully it will challenge you as well.

Hey pastor…

Sunday’s coming…
It will be here in less than 48 hours!!!
Are you ready?
This week will be someone’s first week in your church!
Your church is a powder keg WAITING to explode!!!
God wants to do things in your church that would absolutely blow you away if He were to download it all on you at once.
Sunday’s coming…
People will be in your church that are one heartbeat away from hell…
Will you share the GOSPEL?
Will you call for commitment?
Sunday’s coming…
You have been called, equipped and empowered by God to do what you do!
He knows where you are!
He knows what you are going through!
He has NOT forgotten you!!!
Have you BEGGED God to do something unexplainable and undeniable?
Have you allowed something to distract you this week?
Have you become obsessed with anything or anyone other than Jesus and the vision He has poured into you?
Sunday’s coming…
The next Billy Graham, Bill Hybels or Rick Warren COULD be sitting in your church this Sunday…heck, they MIGHT not even be saved yet…
There is UNLIMITED potential within the people in your church who know Christ.
People want hope!
People want to change!
People want to LIVE!
They need to hear YOU tell them about CHRIST!
Sunday’s coming…
Let’s put on our game faces…
This could be the last message that you ever get to preach…EVER!!!
SO…SAY IT, bring the HEAT!!!
Sunday is NOT a burden…it’s a gift…GO FOR IT!!!

Help us plan the 2011 General Convention

2009-12-16T07:58:00.001-08:00

By Bishop Charles Scott
We would love your feedback on the following:

Would you favor a conference forum with breakout sessions?
What type of sessions would interest you?
Would you prefer outside speakers for the main services?
Would you prefer department led services per history?
What are the most important areas for you in relation to general convention, i.e. what do you expect from the meeting?
What would you most desire from general convention?
What would you like to say about general convention?

Making Vision Stick

2009-12-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

When you begin to think about the upcoming year, are you challenged with a renewed Vision from God??

Does it even matter to you as a leader??

Have you been seeking God to show you His direction for your ministry in 2010??

Do you have a plan to communicate that Vision to those that God has entrusted into your care??

Andy Stanley's book Making Vision Stickhas been a powerful resource for me over the past 3 years. I read it a couple of times a year and always find some things that I need to do better to make Vision Stick at Christian Life Center. The following is a summary of the first chapter of this book that makes Vision a reality.

Vision must have clarity, simplicity and must be catchy. This will make it easy to communicate effectively. If it’s clear from the beginning, it can simply answer people’s questions. Make it memorable/unforgettable and people will embrace it! Better to be incomplete and memorable than complete and forgettable. Don’t pass by the limited opportunities to share your vision to the “drive-by” audience. Remember the audience you have every Sunday do not sit around thinking about the Vision as we do on a daily basis, so make it simple.

Be willing to evaluate your vision so it always tells what is distinctive about your church/ministry. Then watch as your clear vision causes people to redirect their focus and resources.

I challenge you to pick up this resource for yourself and your team.
"Making Vision Stick" by Andy Stanley

Fasting...

2009-11-12T13:10:00.001-08:00

Recently a number of challenges have caused me to do some real honest evaluations in my life and seeking the Lord in a number of different ways. In the last few months the Lord has brought me to a place of doing something that I have not really done often nor was I ever really taught about in church and that is in the area of fasting.

I read jentzen Franklin's book on the subject and was challenged greatly. Recently I challenged my staff to set aside one day a week to fast and seek God concerning the many challenges our church is facing.

I am learning to grow in this area but am discovering already how awesome it can be.

I am curious......

Do you fast?
How Often?
What type of fasting have you done and how long?

WHAT HAS GOD REVEALED THROUGH YOUR TIMES OF FASTING?

Gathering The Fragments

2009-11-11T16:02:00.000-08:00

Years ago I was flipping channels when I came accross Jeses Duplantis. I was not real familiar with his ministry at the time but I remember like yesterday what he said. Speaking of Jesus feeding the 5 thousand Jesse focused on the "Gathering of the fragments". He shared how God told him that there were fragments wasted in his ministry that could help him do more with what he already had. He told his office to turn off lights whenever leaving a room among other things. In 1 month they lowered their bill by $5000 dollars. During these tough financial times it should cause us to look closely at areas we can be better concerning God's money. I have made changes to my health care without putting my family in jeapordy, shaved some things that were pleasing to me but did not accomplish the mission, took advantage of some other opportunities and basically by December will save us $2000 a month and with things being what they are, that is huge for us. Where are the fragments in your ministry?

Money Matters

2009-11-09T10:34:00.001-08:00

Over the last year our church and I am sure many others have experienced some major changes concerning financial contributions. Many families in my church have experienced 30%+ in income loss and some much more! Recently I have had to prayerfully make changes in my personal finances as well as the church while making sure that the ministry that matters does not stop. I am grateful for what God has shown me during this process.

I am curious: Have you experienced substantial decline in finances?

What changes did you make and how?

What things did you refuse to change because it was too important?

What determines Success in Ministry

2009-11-07T06:14:00.000-08:00

Every pastor wants to have a successful ministry. Sadly, many compare themselves to the highly visible leaders of large ministries and feel like a failure in comparison.
The size of your ministry does not determine the level of your success.
• Too many pastors have led large ministries while tragically failing personally and morally.
• Too many have sacrificed their families all in the name of “church growth.”
• Too many have lost their personal passion for Jesus while leading His church.

The most successful pastors may not be the ones that others read about, but the ones who faithfully love Jesus and serve people.

Do the Small Things Daily
When working with pastors, many are often looking for a “big win.” They want to have a big community event, a big servants’ banquet, or a big series that runs attendance higher. While all these can be effective, I encourage consistency in the small things daily.

I’ll compare it to football. Most championship teams win games on many four-yard, six-yard, and eleven-yard gains. They might win one game a season on a last second hail-Mary pass, but most games consistently succeeding at the basics.

The same is true in ministry. Successful ministries are built on Christ by leaders who do the small things daily:
• They return calls and emails promptly.
• They show up on time.
• They pray for God’s guidance.
• They love and serve people.
• They study hard and preach passionately.
• They have a consistent and strong work ethic.
• They follow through on commitments.

You could hope for the perfect mailer, plan the killer youth event, or pray for a news story to build your church…or you could move the ball forward one play at a time doing the small things with integrity daily.

Successful When No One Knows
You can be successful today when few people know anything about your ministry. You are successful when you:
• Live daily with integrity.
• Pursue Christ with all your heart.
• Preach your best sermon to a very small crowd.
• Visit the sick in the hospital.
• Cry with the parents who just lost a child.
• Forgive the church member who wronged you.
• Give privately to someone in need.
If your ministry ever becomes “well known” and people call you an overnight success, you can thank God privately that they couldn’t be further from the truth. Deep down, you’ll know you’ve been seeking God for years and serving Him faithfully when few people were watching.

The Private Cost of Visible Success
If you are quietly faithful for years, God may expand your ministry. One day, many will want a ministry like you have. But not everyone is willing to do what you did to have what you have. You and those closest to you will know:
• The sacrifices you’ve made.
• The pain you’ve endured.
• The hard decisions you’ve faced.
• The loneliness you’ve felt.
• The fear you’ve overcome.
• The weight you carry.
Every private painful memory you carry will draw you closer to the One who suffered and died for you. Your “public success” won’t mean nearly as much to you as your private devotion to Christ.

"What IF"

2009-11-05T14:00:00.000-08:00

• WHAT IF the early church had been full of people who drove their “luxury camels” to church…but became angry when someone mentioned giving?
• WHAT IF the early church had decided to simply study what Jesus said but not apply it?
• WHAT IF the early church had the attitude of, “we love a small crowd…so don’t tell anyone about Jesus coming back to life. I know He commanded us to tell…but let’s keep it a secret because we don’t want to get too many people?”
• WHAT IF the early church had been more passionate about their comfort than conforming to who Christ called them to be?
• WHAT IF the early church had decided their primary responsibility was to be political, thus organizing protests against the Roman government for occupying their land?
• WHAT IF the early church had required only “religious professionals” to be in ministry?
• WHAT IF the early church had decided to yell and scream at the Romans for acting like Romans?
• WHAT IF the early church had decided their primary call was to save the environment rather than the ones living in it?
• WHAT IF the early church had substituted their personal preferences in place of the words of Jesus?
• WHAT IF the early church had been more obsessed with Robert’s Rules of Order rather than the Scriptures?
• WHAT IF the early church had been focused on the cross on the wall rather than the cross Jesus called them to carry?
• WHAT IF the early church had instructed the Holy Spirit in Acts 2 that He was a little out of hand…and that his movement hadn’t been voted on by the church board.
• WHAT IF the early church had been full of people but weren’t actually willing to do anything to reach people far from God?

WHAT IF…WOW…so glad the early church listened to Jesus and did what HE said…or else we would have been in a lot of trouble!

Perry Noble
newspringchurch.cc

Five Commitments to developing Trust in your church leadership

2009-11-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

As I shared yesterday, these are thoughts from Catalyst Conference that I attended a few weeks back. Hope you enjoy

Occasionally they are gaps between what we expect people to do and what they actually do.

I expected ______ but you gave me _______.
we choose what to put in this gap.

We either assume the worst or believe the best.
What we see determines what we believe.
Who I am determines how I respond to others.

A culture characterized by trust produces people that are trustworthy!

If you are unwilling to trust you will never know who you can't trust until you trust them. The longer you refuse to trust the longer untrustworthy people can hide in your organization

Trusting is risky. Refusing to trust is riskier.

Developing a culture of trust begins with the Leader. Trust and suspicion is telegraphed from our actions & ideas about our trust. Quit sitting on mistrust. Don't give a barrel of response to a spoon full of mistakes.

Are you beleiving the best or assuming the worse in those on your team?

Five commitments to developing a culture of Trust

1. When there is a gap between what I expected and what I experienced, I choose to believe the best.

2. When other people assume the worse in you I will come to your defense.

3. If what I experience begins to erode my trust I will come directly to you about it.

4. When I am convinced that I will not be able to fulfill my commitment I will come to you ahead of time.

5. When you confront me about the gaps I've created I will tell you the truth.

Andy Stanley
www.northpoint.org

10 Things I have learned in 50 years of Leadership

2009-11-03T05:54:00.000-08:00

I recently attended "Catalyst" conference for Next Generation Leaders. This week i will be sharing some of my experiences from this event. Each year they give the Catalyst Lifetime Achievement Award to a very distinct leader. This year they gave it to Chuck Swindoll. At Catalyst Chuck Swindoll spoke a powerful word on Leadership:

10 Things I have learned from 50 Years of Leadership:

1. It is lonely to Lead
2. It is dangerous to Succeed
3. It is hardest to lead at home
4. It is essential to be Real
5. It is painful to Obey
6. Brokeness and Failure are necessary
7. Attitude overshadows Actions
8. Integrity eclipses Image
9. God's way is always better than mine
10. Christ-likeness begins and ends with Humility

To hear a man who has led for 50 years was quiet breath and his words of wisdom given to 12,000 Next Gen leaders with most of them being between the ages of 20-30. I love the fact that there are leaders with many years of wisdom who are willing to share with Next Gen leaders even when they do not understand or agree with how Next Gen leaders sometimes lead.

There's a Rebel in the House!

2009-10-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

I was spending time with one of my pastor friends from Ghana, West Africa (he ministered for us on "International Sunday"). As is the case so often, the subject of rebellion came up.

There is not a pastor, manager, parent, or leader anywhere in time past or present who has not had to deal with rebellion.

I have learned that you can't counsel rebellion; and, in my ignorance, I have even attempted to pastor it. It cannot be pastored, loved, corrected, swept under the carpet or pampered. It must be stopped. It must be cut off. It's influence must be minimized, because innocent people always get trapped in the web of rebellion.

How did God deal with it? Like a lightening strike, He dealt with it swiftly. Even in the perfect environment of Heaven, rebellion found company. Rebellion will always play the part of the victim and find others to take the fall with it.

Absolom gives us a tremendous picture of rebellion. When David returned to his palace after the death of his son Absolom, he would not sleep with his wives (they had slept with his son Absolom). Why? For many reasons, I'm sure. For one, if one of them became pregnant, he would not know who the real father was. We must be careful to deal quickly with rebellion in the church, because when we fail to do so and our people become pregnant with doctrine, philosphy, or vision....we will not know if they are impregnated with rebellion.

Pastors, are you dealing with rebellion swiftly? What are your experiences? What are your thoughts?

Double Portion Anointing!

2009-10-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

As one of my spiritual sons was team preaching with me last weekend in Europe (we ministered at two pastor's conferences...one in Hungary and one in Romania), God was giving him incredible revelation while preaching. (For the record, I have never experienced anything like what we experienced as a father & son preaching on the subject of "Spiritual Fathers & Sons"). He said, "Elisha picked up the mantel. The son's mantel is not to out-perform his father. His mantel is not to preach twice as good, or perform twice the miracles. The son is not in competition with his father. No! My spiritual Papa always says, 'God raises sons & daughters in the House to preserve the vision of the House!' God will never honor the proud, arrogant, or competetive son. The mantel is to continue what the father starts. The mantel is to run with his vision, his dream, and his anointing. When the son runs with the father's mantel, he positions himself for incredible fruitfulness, effectiveness, and results. If it's twice, three times, or more, the son doesn't care. His only desire is to run with his fathers dream!" I thought that was good enough to share with you today! God, give our sons & daughters our vision! Give them our dream! Let them run with it when we're gone! Give them humble hearts! Give them honoring hearts! Position them for DOUBLE PORTION ANOINTING!

Who are your spiritual sons & daughters? How much time do you spend with them daily, weekly, monthly, and annually? What are some of your experiences with them that would encourage pastors to invest in their spiritual offspring?

Tell us something good!

2009-10-12T12:17:00.001-07:00

What is going on with you and your church? What has God done recently that you want to share, not boast but share something that God did that we all can rejoice over? Anything at all?

I will go first. Times have been a little rought lately and felt like our people needed a break. A little laughter if you will. So, I invited professional comedian Scott Wood (left) who is not only a top comic but is a fellow believer as well. In fact, he attends and occasionally teaches Jr. High at Greg Lauries church in Riverside CA. So yesterday was the day and it was beyond what I expected. He did a 30-40 minutes stand up ruotine, shared his testimony and 15 people got saved! The church was nearly packed both services (255 total which is great for us) with several new families who after service came to me and told me they loved the church and would be back.

Now we are gearing up for our annual Halloween & Thanksgiving Day outreaches. Let us know what God is doing where you are so we can rejoice with you!

Go Johnny Go!

2009-09-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the most difficult assignment for any manager, pastor, or leader is to let go of some one in your organization. Timing is so important.

In many ways the church leader must think with a business mind. However, because we are "spiritual" leaders, often we are judged by our decisions on a different level.

How do you know when it's time? There are so many factors; and every church dynamic is different.

It might be time to say "go Johnny go" when: 1) Johnny refuses to give his "Dear Johnny" letter. Most staff members know when it's time. If Johnny stays too long, he can become divisive, rebellious, and nasty. 2) It's time to go when he's no longer productive. If he is not fulfilled or fruitful, you've got trouble on your hands. 3) It might be time to say "go Johnny go" when you see major morale issues with people under his leadership.

There are many reasons to say good-bye, and I've only hit on a few. What is your number one reason to let go of a staff member?

Run Forest Run!

2009-09-24T10:07:00.001-07:00

Nobody I know runs faster in ministry than our Recovery Pastor. I have to remind him to slow down, take days off, enjoy family time, etc... Hundreds of people attend our weekly recovery ministries...it is the fastest growing ministry in our church.

Did you know that September is the National Recovery Month? The National Drug & Alcohol Addiction Recovery Month celebrates it's 20th year this month. One of the fastest growing problems in America is the misuse of presciption drugs. The church cannot afford to turn a deaf ear to this crisis.

23.2 million people in the United States over the age of 12 needed treatment for a substance abuse problem in 2007, and 5.4 million adults also suffered from a concurrent mental illness.

How would you grade your church and ministry when it comes to reaching this segment of society? What programs, ministries, or resources are available in your community? How is your board and ministry team preparing for greater outreach?

Sing Baby Sing!

2009-09-23T15:39:00.000-07:00

Music pastors, worship leaders, musicians and singers are a gift to the church. Any Senior Pastor can share at least one horror story about their experience with a worship service.

When Pastors Tom & Judy Douglas became the full-time Music Pastors at NHIC in 1995, we knew that we were a fit. Sadly, many pastors and music leaders will stand on a platform together this Sunday, yet miles apart in their hearts toward one another. Worse yet is that most in the pews can smell the tension.

There are three questions that senior pastors and their music pastors need to answer: 1) Are We A Fit? 2) Are We Walking the Same Direction? 3) Can We Talk?

How do you know when you and those under your leadership are a fit? What core values are essential to your leadership? What methods do you employ to open the lines of communication?

"Ninety Nine & a Half Won't Do"

2009-09-18T07:23:00.001-07:00

I grew up in the home of parents who were born and raised in Eastern Kentucky. With southern roots, their personal tastes seem to always have that "mountain" flavor.

Their musical choice was the same. My dad really enjoys good bluegrass music. So, I grew up listening to groups like The Lewis Family, The Easter Brothers, Bill Monroe, Etc. That type of music seemed to resonate deep from within the soul of people whose life had been carved out of pain and hardship.

I remember a song in particular that talked about "all or nothing" (so to speak). "Ninety Nine & a Half Won't Do." As a child I really didn't understand the song, I just knew it had a catchy tune.

Today, I understand the meaning.

"It takes a hundred to go to Heaven,

just any kind of living won't do.

It takes a hundred to go to Heaven.

Ninety nine and a half won't do."

I liken that old song (and it's principle) to the life of my ministry today. I guess I would say, I feel like Elisha in a sense that I've burned up my plowshare and killed my oxen. In other words, I don't have a back up plan. If this "ministry" attempt doesn't work out - then I'm stuck. I have nothing to go back to.

Now, of course I could get a job somewhere and seek secular employment and do very well in a career of choice. But my heart is ministry. My call came very early in life and since the time of that call I've decided it's ALL or NOTHING.

What amazes me about some of the people I've led to the Lord here in Indianapolis - some of them have been what we would consider HARDCORE sinners. They gave 100% to drugs, alcohol, promiscuity, etc. Since their conversion, they are now 100% CHRISTIANS.

It's amazing.

You don't have to "plead" with them to be a soul winner.
You don't have to "market" the next meeting for them to decide whether or not they'll attend.
You don't have to "sugar coat" anything.
They are RAW - "give it to me plain preacher" people.

They show up, early I might add, for everything the church is doing. Their attitude is "is there anything else I can do?" NOT "Again? the church is asking me to do something else?"

How refreshing it is to see people with zeal and passion for the things of God.

I have to take inventory on my own life when I'm around them. Quite honestly, they challenge me to want to do more and not less.

I want to do more for Jesus. I'm not looking for loop holes. I'm not a minimalist when it comes to the work of the Lord. Nor was Jesus. He didn't give only 10% of Himself when He went to Calvary - He gave 100%.

Jesus didn't ask His disciples to give 10% of their lives. He said, "Come and follow me." Scripture declares that they did just that. They left their business interests, careers and homes to follow Him. Sounds like 100% to me.

There is a basketball player who played for the Chicago Bulls during the time of Michael Jordan's famed tenure. His name isn't highly recognized. He didn't play that much. Yet, he was on the team giving 100%. His name is Cliff Levingston.

Cliff suited up for each game not knowing whether or not he would be called upon to play. He knew what we all know...each person on the team is valuable...regardless of the amount of playing time they receive. Yet, Cliff did what we know to do, as ministers:

He attended all the practices.
He went to all the camps.
He suited up for every game.
He cheered the other teammates on.
He played when called upon.

Even though he is not as known as Michael Jordan - Cliff Levingston has two NBA championship rings. He didn't get all the playing time he would have liked but he did give 100% and as a result he is pictured with his team.

I do not know Cliff Levingston personally. I am not aware of all of his accomplishments or even his failures. However, he stands out to me as someone who gave everything to the cause he was playing for.

I want to lead with this same example. I realize that there are people depending on my influence, impartation and frankly my person hood. Although I cannot be everything people want me to be - I can be all He wants me to be by simply serving with 100% wherever I am.

At what level are you playing the game? Is it 100% or something else?

I can still hear that mandolin & banjo in the background as the music trails off ... "ninety nine and a half won't do...."

Am I Effective Where I'm At?

2009-09-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

One of the things that seem to validate effectiveness to me is knowing:

I am the right person
I have the right gifts
I am with the right congregation
This is the right time

I can also be ineffective if I'm mis-matched with the congregation at the wrong time in the wrong place. I've known pastors who bloomed in one place and were severely ineffective in another place.

Isn't it important to know whether you're in the right place at the right time doing the right thing?

It took me several years to come to grips with this, but I'm slowly learning that what God wants me to do is usually consistent with how He created me.

Therefore, I have to pay attention to my desires and gifts. But, it's not desire and gifts alone - those must be balanced with the demands of my circumstances.

Sometimes God may call me to a place that I don't necessarily like or where my gifts aren't fully appreciated. It's not always a "perfect" match. But it's there that I must make a choice. A choice to either bloom where I'm planted or complain till everything around me is thorns and thistles.

Who are you?
Where are you?

Consider these questions for your ministry:

Do my gifts and style of ministry meet the needs and expectations of my congregation?
Do I feel good about myself and my ministry?
Am I accomplishing more in my ministry than I did five or ten years ago?
Are the leaders who are following me responsive to my ideas?

"I'm behind you Pastor!"

2009-09-14T02:49:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard someone say, "I'm behind you Pastor?"

That statement sounds great - but actually, when you tell someone you're behind them, what you could really be saying is "the reason I'm standing behind you is so I can point my finger at you if something goes wrong."

What I'm learning is, if you're standing WITH someone you cannot point at them from behind.

I would much rather people be standing with me rather than behind me.

Pastor, the same goes for each of us in our relationship with our leader(s). (PCG Bishop - both district and general, spiritual fathers, other Kingdom leaders, etc.)

We are either standing WITH them or BEHIND them.

I'm standing WITH my district leader when:

I show up for what matters to him.
I support through attendance & finances.
I pray for him and speak blessings over him (privately & publically).
I do not entertain any type of gossip/slander/negativity about him.

I'm standing WITH my general leader when:

I make room in my calendar to attend national meetings.
I do not entertain any type of gossip/slander/negativity about him.
I show up for General Convention.
I give my opinion with a loving sweet spirit - NOT as a matter of fact know it all.

You've heard it said often: "we can be part of the solotuion or part of the problem." That is still my heart when it comes to standing WITH my leaders.

If I wanted to, I could refuse to get plugged into the main stream of our fellowship - I could use the excuse "I don't like politics", "Until things change, I'm going to stand over here in the shadows"....

We could give the same excuses that we would balk at if it was one of our leaders in our church saying it to us.

But how is this helping my leader - who needs my positive presence and influence now?

I stand WITH them just as I would want the leaders in my local church to stand WITH me.

Are you standing WITH or BEHIND?

The Best "IN" or "FOR"...What's your pleaseure?

2009-09-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

I heard a play on words that caught my attention yesterday during "The Nines" sponsored by The Leadership Network. The pastor said "ARE YOU TRYING TO BE THE BEST CHURCH "IN" YOUR COMMUNITY OR THE BEST CHURCH "FOR" YOUR COMMUNITY?

Those 2 words may be small but the difference is huge! Just look at what we do and how we do them and that will probably reveal our true attitude concerning this question. Most of us feel we are not competing but maybe what we do and how we do it says otherwise. I know in previous blogs we have addressed this area but lt me tackle it with this question?

WHAT ARE YOU DOING THAT MAKES YOUR CHURCH DIFFERENT, NOT BETTER, JUST DIFFERENT?

Why? Because God told you to!!!

"One Thing"

2009-09-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

What is the "ONE THING" about your church that...

1) you would not touch or change because it is that good. In fact, others could learn from your church?

2) that you would change right now if you could? In fact, you are looking for answers or suggestions.

3) What is keeping you from doing that "ONE THING"?

How Good Is Your Church...... Really?

2009-09-07T10:45:00.000-07:00

In my pursuit of being the best we can be as a church I am always evaluating everything from our landscaping, facitlites, services etc. However, I have decided to get the opinion of someone whose opinion really matters....a non-church person. I have decided to find someone from the community every 3 months and pay them $50 to attend a church service (secret shopper) and following that service fill out a questionaire with their honest opinion of everything about our church. The questionaire will include our grounds, facilities, bathrooms, music, the message, the people, the atmosphere as well as whether or not they would return if they were to start attending a church

Why do this? Because all of us have forgotten what it is like to walk into a church for the first time and if we want the truth then we need to ask the person that really matters!

I know this is not a new concept but I am curious as to what you are doing to evaluate your effectiveness when it comes to 1st time guests.

Thoughts from Ed Young

2009-09-05T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ed Young Jr. is Lead Pastor of Fellowship Church in Dallas, TX. Ed came to this church 20 years ago with less than 100 people. They have one of the best conferences in the country in February, C3 Creative Church Conference. Check it out:
church web: www.fellowshipchurch.com
Ed's blog: www.edyoungblog.com

The Toughest 10%
It’s one of the most difficult things for any leader to do. It’s not very popular, but it’s very necessary. It’s moving people out. And as leaders in the church, we cannot be shy about it.

Over the last ten years, Fellowship Church has tried to do just that. It’s a principle that Jack Welch calls differentiation. Basically, Mr. Welch says a healthy organization regularly moves out 10% of its staff. He says, “Winning leaders invest where the payback is the highest. They cut their losses everywhere else."

In other words, great leaders regularly take a look at the organization and evaluate those who should stay and those who need to be moved out.

This isn’t to say that you don’t appreciate the work and blessing that those people brought to the table. God brings people into your organization for a reason. But oftentimes, it’s only for a season. There are situations where it is necessary to move certain people out so that you, and they, can continue to grow.

At Fellowship, we have grown more over the last 20 years through subtraction than through addition. Think of a body. For a physical body to grow and maintain vibrancy, it must regularly eliminate certain things. In the body of Christ, and especially when it comes to staff, the same principle applies.

When you regularly move people out, the results are phenomenal! Those people then have the opportunity to become a blessing, to be used by God somewhere else. You see those left who step up to fill the voids; those who help your church reach the next level. You experience a vibrancy, freshness and newness that may not have been present before. You are forced to think strategically about your resources. And you ultimately experience growth through the change. I call this the spin cycle of success. Change – Conflict – Growth.

For any organization to maintain life, it must remain fluid. Otherwise, it becomes stagnate. And as the living body of Chirst, we must recognize this and not be afraid to follow the steps to maintain vitality and life.

As a leader, don't be afraid to evaluate who is around you. Don't be shy about moving people out. God will continue to work through you. He will continue to use you and your organization for his purposes. And you will experience blessings that may have been blockaded before!

Wow, no that will get in your grill for us PCG people. Have you ever asked anyone to step down from where they are serving??

Thoughts from Tommy Sparger

2009-09-04T07:01:00.000-07:00

Today we hear from Tommy Sparger. Tommy planted North Point Church in Springfield, Missouri in 2003. Tommy is licensed with Assembly of God. North Point has grown to 3,500 in 6 years leading hundreds of people to Christ. Check out this ministry.
Church website: www.northpointnow.org
Tommy blogspot: www.tommysparger.com

10 Danger Signs that should be a red flag to a Spiritual Leader

1. You view other churches or organizations in the “kingdom” as competition.

2. You can do what you are doing without the help of God.

3. You are becoming increasingly cynical.

4. You have no friends that you can REALLY open up to.

5. The only friends that you have are the people helping you to accomplish what you are trying to accomplish — and the minute they are of no use to you anymore — they are no longer your friends.

6. Your disciples resemble “The Pharisees” more than they resemble “Jesus”. They are more concerned with being right, doctrine, control, the political process, how horribly biased the secular media is, than they are allowing God to soften their heart and make them more like Him. When your disciples are mean spirited, paranoid, want you to take a public stand against homosexuals, Harry Potter, or whatever else…. be careful….. You are their teacher. What are you attracting and why? What are you teaching? The world has enough mean spirited fundamentalist that are more concerned that we avoid secular music than they are caring for the poor ………….You are there to make a difference. Raise up better disciples. The world needs it - the church needs it - you need it.

7. You have secrets that only you know about.

8. You have escape fantasies.

9. You feel trapped.

10. The only reason that you are doing what you are doing anymore is because you don’t know how else to make a living.

-If this describes you, please know, you can get help. Go see a counselor. Work it out. You can salvage this thing.

What are you learning?

2009-09-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

This week i am sharing with you blogs and leadership material that is found online. These are things that we can all learn from without ever traveling or financial investment. Taking some time to read and listen to other Pastors/Leaders struggles and insights could sometimes relieve us of going through the same heartache and we might learn something in the process.

These are two Leadership Conferences taking place online: ck them out. These are both next week. Led by some of the ministries you have heard of and know well. I am so pumped about both of them. Myself along with some of my team will be partcipating in these.

www.theforum.lifechurch.tv

www.thenines.leadnet.org

Thoughts from Shannon Odell, Lead Pastor, Brand New Church in Bergman, AR. This is a small town of 450 population, 10 miles from McDonalds & Walmart. Shannon & Cindy Odell became pastors with 40 people and now minister to over 2000 weekly with 4 campuses & 3 satellite churches. Ck it out;
website: www.brandnewchurch.com
blogspot: www.breakingalltherurals.com

6 Qualities to look for in a Staff Member

When I was hired at Southside Baptist Church, now Brand New Church these were the mandatory requirements…
1) Five years of pastoral experience2) Must be married3) Seminary degree. After reading those I realized Jesus could not get a job at this church. He was single, only had three and half years of ministry experience and never attended seminary.
So now we have restructured our staff requirements:

1) A Red Hot marriageYour marriage is the report card of your walk with God. Also, an Ephesians 5 marriage order. I have seen so many great men of God lose passion and ministry faith because their wives were leading the home.If single…how do they manage their personal self-disciplines (money, mouth, meals, motivation).Are they “majorly in debt, do they talk too much, majorly overweight (everyone who is big is not overweight), self-starter.

2) Orderly Home…Titus 1:5 “a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient.”This may be the most unspoken passage of scripture in the Bible from the “pulpit”. God calls you to shepherd your home first, then His Church.

3) Relationship Builder…If you don’t love people you are not called.

4) Passion for our God…This is found out from the people closest to them.(#3 and #4 are the staples of the Great Commission…Love God and Love People.)

5) Loyalty…Listen how they talk about their previous employment and employer. Loyalty to authority is the most difficult quality to find in ministry staff thus far in my short 6 years of pastoring. BNC is too large for a church split, but I am learning that staff can do extensive damage when they are not loyal to God’s leadership paradigm in the local church.

6) Understand God’s Vision for Brand New Church.The word under-stand means submitting to what was stated. The potential staff must get “under” the pastors vision and mission with no “agenda” of his own. They need ministry ideology and creation of new ministry, strategy, development of volunteers and leaders, events, spiritual connection and community, but ‘under” the direction of the senior pastor.

Great thoughts from Perry Noble

2009-09-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

Perry Noble is Church Planter & Sr. Pastor @ Newspring in Anderson, South Carolina. It is a city of 25,000 population with NewSpring growing to 12,000 in attendance.
www.newspring.cc

From time to time a church planter will ask me, “what do you wish someone would have told you before you began?” Here’s a list of fifteen things I came up with…
#1 – Everyone Will Not Understand You…SO Stop Trying To Explain Yourself. Cast Vision…And MOVE Forward!
#2 – Everyone Will Not Like You…So STOP Trying To Be Popular.
#3 – You Don’t Have To Be The Person Who Actually Solves Every Problem….Admit You Are Not The Smartest Person and Let Your Experts Be Your Experts.
#4 – Spend WAY More Time Talking About Who You Are Rather Than Who You Are Not.
#5 – A Leader Is Always An Easy Target Because They Are…A Leader. So, Get Over Yourself And Get On With What God Called You To Do!
#6 – When The Holy Spirit Presses Something Into Your Heart…Don’t Ignore Him.
#7 – Do NOT Expect God’s Next Step To Make Sense.
#8 – You Can’t Plan A Move Of God…But You Must Be Prepared For One!
#9 – Do Not Resist Something Just Because You Do Not Understand It!
#10 – People Who Claim You “Are Not Deep Enough” Are Obsessed With Information But Have No Desire To Live Out Transformation.
#11 – You Don’t Need To Listen To Everybody…But You Had Better Be Listening To Somebody Because God Didn’t Ask You To Take This Journey Alone.
#12 – Never Apologize For Asking People To Commit To Something…Jesus Didn’t!
#13 – The Church Has Been Underachieving For Way Too Long…So Dream BIG And Don’t Apologize For It.
#14 – There Will Be Days When You Want To Quit…Don’t…Jesus Didn’t!
#15 – The Gospel Changes Lives…PREACH Every Sermon Like It’s Your Last!!!

Can A Pastor Have A Friend?

2009-08-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

The longer I pastor, the more I wonder if a pastor can successfully pastor a friend. I can remember John Maxwell sharing that it can be lonely for a leader at the top. Some in the congregation may befriend the pastor for the wrong reason. What are your thouts?

a New Addiction!

2009-08-25T21:52:00.000-07:00

Pastoring a church with so many in recovery, I see people who switch addictions; and if not careful, the damage can be just as devastating.

From you perspective' how can we encourage people to love Jesus passionately without falling into the trap becoming addicted to ministry?

Go SpeedRacer!

2009-08-24T18:49:00.000-07:00

I had a recent experience of a lifetime. About one hundred people from our church came out to see me in a stock car race. I was only the passenger; but what a thrill. The driver leads our Raceway Ministry. He prays with the racers and pit crews every Saturday night before the races begin. We have a biker ministry; and, of course our recovery ministry is the fastest growing ministry in the church. How are you reaching people in "outside the box" ways?

Apple or PC?

2009-08-23T22:46:00.001-07:00

Which do you use for your worship services? What program(s) do you use or recommend for churches and leaders?

Personally, I'm on the verge of making the switch - getting tired of the PC experience (anti-virus ugrade scams....pc slowdowns, etc...) What are your thoughts?

Fall Quarter Kick Off

2009-08-17T05:57:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday we will have a Fall Quarter Barbeque Kick Off to announce our fall programs. (pulled pork & beef brisket - yum)

This will include a revamp of our college/carreer class, new marriage class, financial class, connections, etc.

Personally, I will be launching a new mentorship group on Wednesday mornings.

There always seems to be a lot of momentum during this season.

"Beyond The First Visit"

2009-08-12T15:35:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I was preaching Jr/High School camps for the Central Cal District. While in my "Man Cave" otherwise known as my modest sleeping quarters I read a book by Gary Mcintosh called "Beyond The First Visit". I want to reccommend this to all of our leaders due to it's simplistic but all to often ignored truths. Several months ago we (our team) began asking some very tough but necessary questions about the "Connectivity" of our church and found this book to be helpful and confirmational to our many discussions. In this book Gary deals with churches and how they handle "Guests" beyond the first visit, an area we and too many other churches struggle in. He covers first impressions, facilities, follow up, intentional discipleship and much much more. We have made some very tough choices in letting some ministries die and letting some leaders go in our church. We have also spent countless hours creating a path for our guests to not only come and experience Legacy, but how they can connect beyond their first visit and this book has helped. Hope you enjoy the book and if you do, let me know what you got from it. If you have already read it, what did you like about it?

1 church, 2 campuses

2009-08-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

Eddie raised a great question last week about merging churches. In So Cal we have a number of churches 30 min or less from one another but in different cities. It was mentioned last week in Eddie's blogs about pastor's operating outside their gifting meaning that some should be assisting i n a church and not leading a church. Maybe something for some of us to consider is those pastors who are capable to maybe take on one of those struggling churches that is somewhat close but in another city and place a campus pastor there. Those who have proven that they can build and lead a congregation could take on one of the smaller struggling churches and merge them into 1 church, 2 campuses type of thing. I realize that some of those who "hold credentials" or are looking for "a place to preach" may get upset and it goes against the norm for us but we need to consider the ongoing problem of finding someone to "fill the pulpit". I as a board member hate putting someone in a church simply because we don't have anyone else! We have some great visionary leaders who pastor near struggling churches who could help lead that church into health. We have some hard choices to make and talking about them is only a start!

Your Thoughts!

my answer is yes

2009-08-09T05:45:00.000-07:00

Simple and Straightforward....

My answer is yes. I will do whatever it takes to create a healthy church environment. If we are not creating an atmosphere to Convince the UnConvinced then really what are we doing??

My answer is yes. I have been sharing the thought of church mergers with a couple of other pastors in our city that ARE NOT PCG. So for me, YES, we should do whatever it takes.

Does it really matter who owns the property, NO. It is all God's resource. Does it really matter who is the Lead Pastor, NO. It is God's vision.

There is billions of dollars in property all over the country that is setting almost empty with congregations that have lost vision and almost dried up without a leader. Those congregations should not be allowed to continue without a God-given, Fire burning vision that will kick down the gates of Hell instead of comforting the so called saints.

I don't care who owns the property we call our church. I care that lives are saved fromt the pits of Hell.

So, yes is my answer. I am considering a church merger to continue the vision placed in my heart to reach this city for Him. And if joining forces and becoming one church with one vision can accomplish that to a greater degree, then I am all in.

would you??

2009-08-08T09:26:00.000-07:00

Would you consider a Church Merger with another PCG church??

Would you consider a Church merger with another church that is not PCG??

What are some of the things you are doing now to Parnter with other churches in your community??

What is the one thing that you think keeps us (PCG) from Merger??

what is your thoughts??

2009-08-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

CHURCH MERGERS

In the past few months i have been doing lots of research on this very subject. Give some thought to this. Why is it we have churches in our communities dying but no one is willing to join forces, why is it we have churches needing space but no other churches will donate their space, why is it we work for the same goal but compete against one another.

I know these thoughts are not popular but really, what keeps us from joining hands with other churches to accomplish Kingdom Expansion. Why is it we have churches in our districts that suffer and we continue to put a Pastor there and they stay a year or two then move on. There is simply one word for it. They are UNHEALTHY. Why can't we merge these churches with other churches to create and environment to create healthy environments instead of just keeping the doors open with a few people, so they can have everything their way??

Read the insert below that i have copied for your thoughts from:
Churches Embrace Mergers through Multi-site Movement by Jim Tomberlin

According to church experts, the majority of churches in America have plateaued or are dying. Hundreds of congregations close their doors every year. The majority of Americans are essentially unchurched. Imagine the results if thousands of struggling congregations in desperate need of vibrant ministry could join the small number of energetic congregations in desperate need of space. Imagine if local congregations decided they could reach more people and serve their communities better by uniting as one church in multiple locations. We could see a revitalized Church that could have a profound impact upon the social landscape across the nation.
In the fall of 2006, The Chapel of Lake County, Ill., became a multisite church in four new locations. Three of those locations were pre-existing churches, but each one had a different merger story. One was a church building for sale without a congregation. A second was a struggling congregation of 50 without a pastor. The third was a solid congregation of 800 whose founding senior pastor was ready to make a ministry transition. Each one had a different journey, but all three transitioned into successful, strong local congregations who are healthier than before their merger.

So why to we continue to operate UNHEALTHY church environments that are not producing Fruit??

Are we afraid to shut down churches or to merge them with a thriving church at the risk of having less churches to count?? But really should we count them if they are not producing??

Tough questions, but it is time to ask these questions!!!

We Fixed What Kept You Away!

2009-07-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

I received a marketing flier for a new church in our area today. Thought I'd pass on the info for those of you looking to market with something new.

#10 No dress code. Just wear some clothes; socks are optional.
#9 Accepting, forgiving, and authentic. We all have issues, so you will be at home here.
#8 We don't beg for money.
#7 A practical message that will help you overcome life's difficult issues. No history lesson. Yes, we even use movies and videos.
#6 Your kids will love the indoor playground, x-boxes, live music, clowns and more.
#5 No membership required, just a place to connect.
#4 30 nations of people, so you will fit in.
#3 Loud guitars. Big drum set. Worship like you've never experienced before.
#2 Experience a freedom that leads to a life of purpose.
#1 Come reconnect in a living and safe atmosphere.

How Much Does The Sr. Pastor Matter?

2009-07-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

In my last post I focused on location in a poll that asked why the un-churched choose a church. If you look back, location was #13 of 13. The pastor & his preaching were #1.

Looking below you will notice that the top 9 reasons the churched choose a church. Where is the pastor, he is #8 out of 9. What does this mean? If this research is anywhere near accurate, then when it comes to reaching the churched, the pastor is not nearly as important as he is when it comes to reaching the unchurched.

Could it be that pastors pay too much attention to the churched (which has little effect on their decision on choosing a church) and not enough on the un-churched which according to this research plays a HUGE role in their choosing of a church?

Top 9 Reasons that Church-Attenders Choose a Church(research conducted by the Barna Group in 1999)
58% - Doctrine/Theology
53% - People Caring for Each Other
52% - Preaching
45% - Friendliness
45% - Children’s Programs
43% - Helping the Poor
36% - Denomination
35% - Like the Pastor
26% - Sunday School

What are your thoughts?

location, location, location

2009-07-08T17:53:00.000-07:00

I recently came accross some data researched to find out why the unchurched choose a church.
Here are the top 13 reasons why:

90% - Pastor/Preaching
88% - Doctrines
49% - Friendliness of Members
42% - Other Issues
41% - Someone Church Witnessed to Me
38% - Family Member
37% - Sensed God’s Presence/Atmosphere of Church
25% - Relationship Other than Family Member
25% - Sunday School Class
25% - Children’s/Youth Ministry
12% - Other Groups/Ministries
11% - Worship Style/Music
7% - Location

look again at number 13...location. I have heard for years now people say the reason they can't grow a larger or more impactful church is the location of the church. Really? Is that the reason or is lack of vision, work ethic, leadership etc. the real reason?

I know some churches are not in the best of areas whether it be low population, poor area, violence etc. However, in the end, aren't those all excuses? Especially when the excuses we use are the very people Christ died for!

Maybe we have to ask what kind of people do we really want in our churches. I remember coming to Banning (a little over 20,000 + in population at the time) and the church had almost no money, 4 people and a horrible track record as far as pastors were concerned (6 in 10 years). Just for the record, the area was fair!

As I was praying I remember God spoke to me concerning protection and provision and He said "I know your address". In other words He knew where we were, the question was, did we? When I look around So Cal Dist. I see almost all of our churches located where the land was cheap and location undesired. However, it is where we are and we can either make it a reason to sit, leave or get busy reaching the city he planted us in. "They can't come if they don't know where you are" may be true but what more is true is they won't come "because you did't invite them to where you are".

What are you doing to invite the lost to where you are?

I cried for my president!

2009-07-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

I must admit I was tempted to blog about Michael Jackson. I watched a portion of his memorial service, not because I was a fan (although I did like him in my earlier years) but for several other reasons.

However, I feel directed otherwise to share with you something that happened to me yesterday at church. At the last moment I was told of a nation-wide event called "TheCall2Fall". Simply put it was a challenge for churches and believers all over America to fall to their knees in prayer for America according to 2 Chr 7:14. Churches were asked to dedicate a portion of their service to pray for America.

I preached a message entitled "The Prayer That Shook The House" from Acts 4:31-33.
I marveled at the fact that Peter and John after being beaten, told to keep quiet and had their lives threatened before their release immediatley upon their release ran back to their "Own Companions" and the 1st thing they did was pray and ask God to make them bold. Make them bold to do what? To speak the very Word that got them beaten and their lives threatened to begin with. Think about that! There is much more I could share about this but here is my point for this blog.

I realize more and more how our government is betraying our foundation of faith and I will admit I am not a fan of our current leader. However, at the end of each of our 2 services I challenged our church to fill the altars and cry out to God on behalf of our country and that he would as He did in Acts 4:31-33 by Shaking our house, forgiving us, filling us with His Spirit and using us to speak His Word with boldness.

During our 8:30 a.m. service I prayed for Obama, his wife and then his kids. I have prayed for them before but this time it was different. It was with a repentant heart and a sincere desire to see God Bless he and his family. During that time I began to cry as I realized that although many love him, there are many more who desire to kill him or see him fail!

I love America. The older I get the more patriotic I become. I get angered at ball games when people don't remove their hats and talk during our national anthem. I become frustrated at times to see people use a holiday such as the 4th of July as a simple excuse to become intoxicated.

July 4th represents our independance as a nation but more importantly our dependance on God to be truy free! He has blessed America but America has turned her back on Him. I love my country, I honor the men and women of our military and pray that God will fill the White House and every other government building with His presence and that our leaders will fall on their knees as we did yesterday and ask God to forgive us & heal our land as we humble ourselves, pray, seek Him and and turn from our wicked ways.

Remember: Although we want our leaders to do this, the key in this verse is wrapped up in the following "IF MY PEOPLE".

Yesterday I cried not only for me and my country, but for my president. You?

Investment in Next GEN

2009-07-05T14:20:00.000-07:00

As you know at General Convention we made a decision to make a much OVERDUE Investment into Impact Student Ministries. I was saddened to see that our average age of ministers has actually increased to 57 years old. It is so important that we make an investment into the NEXT Generation to raise up leaders by equipping our Impact Ministries Dept with staff.

What are some ways that you see we can continue investment to Impact Student Ministries??

What are some things that you see we can do to bring more FOCUS on the Next Generation as a movement??

What are some things you can do in your own District to see this investment into the Next Gen continue to make an impact in the PCG??

We are MOVING!!

2009-07-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

As per General Convention this week, the General Council will be processing the feasibility of moving the General Headquarters & Messenger College to a metropolitan city, Dallas, Oklahoma City or Tulsa.

My thoughts about the move;
I think it is a good move to be in a metropolitan area for travel purposes. I also like the fact that we will be able to be debt-free and funds will be released to see investment in growing the Kingdom of God. I also think it gives the PCG an opportunity to get a new face for the organization. Without a doubt, some will not understand the move but i support the Vision and trust their leadership.

What are your thoughts about this move?

Add it up

2009-07-03T09:06:00.000-07:00

So what do you get when you add these words together?? hotels, banquets, service 3 times a day, people of every generation, 3 ring binder, financial reports, people speaking their opinion, pk day, teen talent, 60 yr. ordination pens, Fireflight concert = PCG General Convention 2009.

All though all of this stuff happens and is important (or some of it is), what is the most important thing we get from these gatherings??

VISION & LEADERSHIP!!
Without reservation, this is what i look for at Gen Conv. The leadership of PCG layed out a vision that will take hopefully catapult us into a season of growth. Here it is as it was spoken by our leadership:

We are PCG!!
This was the theme of the General Convention 2009 for the PCG. So what does it mean??

We are Global, Connected, Absolute & Relevant!!
If we are going to stop the decline of the PCG these things are a must. Bishop Scott delivered a powerful word and Vision to lead us forward while cherishing our heritage.

We are Here!!
The answer given to us of the question, where are the young leaders? Making an investment in the Next Generation of leaders is a must to see the survival of PCG.

We are Moving!!
Where? the General Council will begin processing the essentials of moving the General Office & Messenger College to a metropolitan city; Dallas, Oklahoma City or Tulsa.

I love it. Leaders Lead and i was glad to see our Leadership doing just that.

Give your thoughts to the Vision and Changes coming to PCG!!

Using Technology to Save Money!

2009-06-27T22:00:00.001-07:00

Recently, my ministry "Papa" ministered to hundreds of pastors without leaving his home in Texas. From his studio, he used web-cam's and technology to preach, prophecy, teach, pray, and minister without the expense of travel, lodging and food (not to mention the fact that he could sleep in his own bed each night). Wow!

With the challenges of a weakened economy, churches and leaders must consider ways to maximize ministry and minimize expenses. What are practical ways that churches and/or denominations can utilize technology to accomplish these two objectives?

United We Stand; Divided...

2009-06-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

A recent study on the American view of Denominationalism concluded that by its very nature, it (Denominationalism) is perhaps the "moral failure of modern Christianity". At first glance, those words are offensive. But after looking at Jesus' words in John 17, praying for "oneness" and "unity", those words may be worth reading again.

Who is "the Church"? Is it important to connect with other organizations or denominations? If so, how? Would Jesus commend us or chastise us? Is He pleased or grieved? What are your thoughts?

Connected?

2009-06-25T12:04:00.000-07:00

What has been the most effective way to get you plugged in to the PCG on a National, District, or Sectional level? For those that may not feel connected, what are practical ways to solicit greater participation and involvement (beyond methods currently employed)?

2009-06-23T22:19:00.000-07:00

In your opinion, and according to your experience, what is the number one benefit for your partnership and relationship with the Pentecostal Church of God?

Going 2 Convention?

2009-06-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

Are you going to the General Convention? If so, what are your expectations?

Twittering General Convention

2009-06-18T16:18:00.001-07:00

What are you doing now?

This is the only question asked by Twitter. Apparently, the General Convention will be "twittering" throughout the convention.

What do you think about this?

Will this "twitter" the results of resolutions, elections, appointments, etc., in real time?

Will this be helpful to the constituency of the PCG?

Electronic Evolution

2009-06-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

Pastor/Leader: since electronic communication is so much a part of our world today, what type of tools are you using to communicate the Gospel?

Electronic Socialism

2009-06-14T00:57:00.000-07:00

myspace, facebook, twitter, texting…we are definitely in the electronic age. I enjoy the advances we have in technology and I love to make full use of it – especially if it broadens our outreach. However, I wonder what studies will show in a few years from now (should the Lord tarry His coming), about the social skills of the present/next generation.

I believe we must have BALANCE (moderation) in all we do. An over indulgence in anything speaks of being out of balance.

How many hours a day are you surfing through myspace & facebook – reading up on everyone?
Count the number of texts you receive and send today.

Recently, I shared this with our congregation. I asked them to consider the amount of time they are indulging in electronic socialism. We discussed the value of carrying on a conversation with someone face to face. Being able to read body language, looking someone in the eye and getting a sense of their character. All of that is shielded behind a computer screen and a keypad.

Last week some teens joined me for a round of golf. They kept their phone on them the entire time and were text messaging between every hole and updating their facebook on the fly. It was a little ridiculous and even a little irritating.

Again, I’m not opposed to the use of technology and communication. I just wonder what we’ll discover about our social skills when the latest studies come out.

Too much of anything can be damaging.

Self-Competing is Self-Defeating

2009-06-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

I have realized that we sometimes feel defeated when attendance in some services or programs is not where we would like. However, could the attendance be elsewhere. In other words, are the attending something else that is competing for their times as well?

If our church calendars are so full of stuff, especially during the same week or same night even, can we realistically expect our people to show?

My mid-week is down by nearly 50% since starting home groups. I am ok with that. Knowing most people will attend 2 services or functions a week, next to Sunday morning my home groups would be my next choice for them. If you don't want people going somewhere else, don't give the option and make sure what you provide is well worth their time!

Any thoughts on this? What are you doing to keep from competing against yourself?

Your Thought's

2009-06-10T16:47:00.000-07:00

Would a weekly topic verses a daily topic help to create more contructive dialogue? Instead of us who post doing a daily topic which would require daily reading, commenting etc. Would a well thought out weekly topic maybe stimulate more conversation?

Your thought's?

Keep Running The Race

2009-06-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

I posted a blog on here not long ago about the fact that I was losing weight by eating healthy and a steady diet of excercise including softball once a week, basketball twice a week and started running a few times a week. Since that post I have now lost about 35-37 lbs depending on the time of day I weigh and have dropped from a 48" waist & 3xl shirt to 40" waist and xl/xxl shirts. I share this because I feel great and have now increased my running dramatically, atleast for me.

You see, I have never liked running..no not at all. However, recently I started running and now run quite a bit. About 4-5 miles now when I do. I remember when I first started running I got my running shoes on, my athetic shorts, muscle shirt and even my ipod with my running music (i'd tell you what it was but you'd think I backslid if I did). Anyway, I looked like I could run but when I first got started I didn't even make it to the corner of my street before I had to stop due to severe oxygen shortage. Today I run several miles before I feel too much and have even learned to enjoy it. One thing I learned was that when I reached that point of saying to myself "ok, slow down, you've gone far enough" because it hurts a little, that is the time I need to press on a little further. You see I have goals of how long, how far etc I will go before I will slow down and catch my breath. Everytime I reach the goal I have set I bear down and push on a little further. What I am doing is increasing my endurance levels. Pushing myself further helps make it easier down the road to reach those distances and goals I am pursuing. People ask me all the time "what is your desired weight"? It made me think of and I actually recently preached to my church Hebrews 12:1,2. The part I want to focus on is the end of verse 1 "and run with ENDURANCE the race that is set before you".

ENDURE = to suffer patiently without yielding. to carry on through despite hardship

When we have laid aside the weight (that which hinders us) and the sin (that which disqualifies us) and find ourselves facing adversity of anykind, we MUST NOT YIELD & MUST CARRY ON THROUGH. How? Looking unto Jesus (the author, perfecter and rewarder of our faith)

KEY (vs 2): who for the JOY that was set before Him (which was the end result)

Endured the cross, disregarded the shame and is now at the right hand of God. Note "who for the JOY that was set before Him. When you lose sight of the why, what and who for you will find it easier to give in. Once you give in it becomes easier and easier until it becomes your character.

In my early years my character was to quit when it got hard, uncomfortable, short of breath. Now I am learning how to change that character by pressing on through despite the difficulty and in doing so am building endurance and finding out that I can do more and go further than I ever realized.

I am not all I want to be but I certainly am not what I used to be either. Same goes for my ministry. I have not accomplished all I want or that God has put within me but I am convinced more than ever that I have the endurance to get there and that is something that I continually keep in front of me!

So, are you still running or what?

Just Curious?

2009-06-08T12:42:00.000-07:00

Every week several of us pastor's have committed to engaging in conversation that effects all of us not only as ministers of the PCG but more importantly as servants of His kingdom. However, I have noticed just the same few of us are commenting back and forth and engaging in any dialogue. I understand that not every topic discussed demands a response or simply is not something you are interested in discussing. However, I am curious how many are even reading.

As we continue this NPN blog, would you take a moment and let us who are posting topics on here know that you are atleast reading and may I encourage you to step out and let us know your thoughts occasionally as well.

Your participation is important and encouraged.

So take a moment if you would and just let us know you are reading this. We are curious who is out there!

Who's Will?

2009-05-30T09:34:00.000-07:00

Few things in life are more powerful than the human will. One idea, coupled with the human will, made modern transportation possible. One idea, coupled with the human will, made it possible for any person on any continent of the earth to fly to another continent – anywhere in the world – the airplane was created. One idea, coupled with the human will, put the first man on the moon. The human will has made modern transportation and modern technology a reality. Few things in life are more powerful than the human will.

The Bible says that David was “…a man after God’s own heart…” King Saul & King David were so different in so many ways. King Saul did things his way. He did what was right in his eyes, and what was right in the eyes of others. His will came before the will of God. But, David’s will was submitted to the will of God. As I was reading (in my Daily Bible Reading) a few weeks ago, I read David’s words in Psalm 101. Eleven times, King David uses the words “I Will”.

“…I will sing of your love and justice, Lord. I will praise you with songs. 2 I will be careful to live a blameless life—when will you come to help me? I will lead a life of integrity in my own home. 3 I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. I hate all who deal crookedly; I will have nothing to do with them. 4 I will reject perverse ideas and stay away from every evil. 5 I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride. 6 I will search for faithful people to be my companions. Only those who are above reproach will be allowed to serve me. 7 I will not allow deceivers to serve in my house, and liars will not stay in my presence. 8 My daily task will be to ferret out the wicked and free the city of the Lord from their grip…” It was evident me, while reading this passage, that King David had learned to surrender his will to the will of God.

Jesus had to surrender His will at the age of twelve when His parents found him in the Temple. He had to surrender His will in the Garden of Gethsemane. Noah built an ark for more than one hundred years while being ridiculed. His will was in check. Nehemiah, the disciples, the Apostle Paul…well, the list doesn’t end – they surrendered their wills to God.

What about you today? Who’s will is most important to you: The will of the people, the will of self, or the will of God? How can you miss the will of God? What are common ways that we, as church leaders, ignore the will of God?

CAUTION: There's a Young Leader in the House!

2009-05-28T09:31:00.000-07:00

David was somewhere between twelve and fifteen when he was anointed to become King of Israel. But David wasn’t appointed as King for more than a dozen years. There were things that had to happen between the anointing and the appointing. Many senior leaders fail to put the mark of a father on their spiritual sons and daughters, fearful that they’ll lose them. But young leaders must be taught, corrected, encouraged, rebuked, and trained.

Many up-and-coming leaders miss the vital lessons necessary for a successful future ministry when impatience, pride, or rebellion so often leads them away from their places of preparation.

What can David teach us? First, David learned to wait for God’s timing. When David was anointed to be King at a young age, he didn’t throw a party. He didn’t post it on Face-Book, MySpace, or his church web-site. What did he do? He went back to work. He was faithful to his current assignment. He waited on the Lord’s timing for promotion.

Secondly, David learned how to cooperatively and faithfully serve the current leader. Even when his leader attempted to kill him, David never lost his heart for the King. When given the opportunity to kill the King in self-defense, he refused to do it (he would not touch God’s anointed and appointed leader).

Next, David learned to win over the little things before tackling the big ones. Before David could take on a giant by the name of Goliath, he first was tested with the battle of a lion and a bear. Before he could be King, he would have to serve the King. Apprentice leaders must learn to win over small things before God can offer the challenging battles of the ministry Goliaths veteran leaders must face on a regular basis.

Finally, David learned to win over his private battles before entering the public arena. The Lion and the bear were private battles. Young leaders need to learn how to win the private battles before stepping into their places of maximum impacting ministries. So often, when they prematurely leave their place of preparation, they leave without victory over the private issues that will later hinder their success in public ministry.

How are you handling your young leaders? Do you recognize greatness when you see it? Does potential in others intimidate you? Do you feel threatened by strong leaders on your team? Are you afraid to offer correction to apprentice leaders? What could you add to my above observations concerning King David?

A New Season

2009-05-27T18:54:00.000-07:00

Monday was graduation day for "The Season of Evangelism". Our Recovery Ministry hosted our annual B-B-Q. More than 300 were in attendance. Last night, there were eight new families at our Get Real Recovery service (between 100-200 people attend each week).

A couple of weeks ago our youth hosted it's season finale with the "Gym Jam". Hundreds of teens come for this outreach each month. There were more than 40 who gave their lives to Christ.

In a few weeks, we'll baptize between 50 and 75 people. It's the end of another great season of evangelism before heading into the new season.

It's a new season: "The Season of Fellowship". I'm getting ready!!! Are you???

Can you share your summer ideas? What do you do in the summer months to promote fellowship? Help my staff...we're always open to new ideas!

Do You Plan To Slow Down?

2009-05-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

As a youth pastor in the early 90's, I dreaded those numbers-deflating summer months! It seemed we lost about two thirds of the group. I was a "numbers guy". When the numbers were up, I was up too; but when they were down, I spiraled into frustration and self-examination.

After a few years of agony, I finally decided to pray about my situation. Asking the Lord for purpose during those lonely months of ministry, He revealed a truth that has helped me beyond youth ministry.

There was always great purpose in the Fall season of ministry. Kids were back from the summer break. They were thinking of school, learning, discipline, structure, schedules, sports, and more. It was a great opportunity for a youth pastor to capatalize on the season - and I did! I called it "The Season of Discipleship". My messages and calendaring complimented the season. I preached about "Lordship", "Commitment", "Servanthood", and the like.

There was also great purpose in the Winter/Spring Season of youth ministry. Those were the months of great growth, and I called it "The Season of Evangelism". I learned that from January to May, I could motivate the youth to bring friends to youth. I preached messages about salvation and the need for evangelism. We did major outreach events like the "Gym Jam", where it was not uncommon for 30-50 teens to receive Christ each month. Teens were saved by the dozens every year (I think it is safe to say that they were saved into the hundreds).

I just couldn't find purpose for those dreadful summer months until the year I finally prayed about them. God revealed to me that the summer months had purpose. He gave those months definition for me. I would see them differently from that moment on. I actually looked forward to the summer months the very next year. I called it (rather, the Lord defined it as) "The Season of Fellowship". Who cared that I only had 35-40 kids in those summer months - they were still important kids to God! I decided to give those kids the summer of their lives. We went to water parks, theme parks, camp-outs, bowling days, golf days, swim days, and so much more. We had water-wars, B-B-Q's, game days (Oakland A's and SF Giants baseball), and they enjoyed every moment of their summer. I built relationships in those summer seasons that continue to this very day. A leader can let his/her hair down at a fellowship event. Followers get to see their leader on a lighter note; and it was often in that season when a teenager and his/her parents gave me permission to lead them.

During "The Season of Fellowship", my messages were about family, friends, and relationships (always leading them to their relationship with God). They grew together as a group; and in many cases, leaders in the youth group emerged during those months.

Today, I'm looking forward to the next season. I'll prepare for the Fall. I'll prepare for the Winter. I can't wait for "The Season of Discipleship" and "The Season of Evangelism". Each year for the past three years, we've baptized more than 150 people. We're very intentional about each season. My team is already gearing up for the seasons. But, we're ready for this new season: "The Season of Fellowship". Retreats, campouts, game days - they're already planned! While people are resting, we rest! While people are playing, we play! While people are hanging out with one another, so are we! When they're slowing down, we don't feel guilty if we slow the pace either. Let me ask you today: What are your plans to enjoy this new season? Do you feel guilty when you rest? Do you get frustrated when your people are camping out, on a bike ride, visiting family, or vacationing? What are you planning to do with them this summer?

Team Ministry

2009-05-23T00:47:00.000-07:00

Team ministry recognizes the WORTH of all ministries. Trying to do ministry alone is as useless as a "screen door on a submarine." (I think I remember that line from a song in the 80's - concerning faith without works. lol)

We all need someone!

Batman had Robin
The Lone Ranger had Tonto
Laverne had Shirley
Laurel had Hardy
etc.

Nehemiah was a leader that relied on others to assist in his dream. "... I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man and feared God above many." - Nehemiah 7:2

Two qualifications: Faithfulness and the Fear of God.

We can accomplish MORE when we are surrounded by people who know they will give an account to God for everything with which they've been entrusted.
Nehemiah's team held off the enemy as well as restored God's people at Jerusalem.

With today's world slipping further away from Godly principles - we need teams of FAITHFUL men to lead us!

Where no council is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety. - Proverbs 11:14

Solomon considered it an extreme importance to have a MULTITUDE OF COUNSELORS surrounding him.

Pastor - as you lead your team - who's leading you?
Do you have a multitude of counselors (i.e., counseling team, spiritual fathers, etc.) in place?

If we are to be effective Pastors - we must have the THREE FOLD CORD in our life. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12) The teams we lead are definitely watching our life as we are leading them. They are watching to see if we are being "led" just as we are "leading".

Last week, Beverly and I celebrated 10 years of pastoral ministry at Bethel Family Worship Center. We were so blessed to have all five of our spiritual fathers in attendance at the same time. As I look at this group of men, I see diversity, seasons & wisdom wrapped up in their collective. They are a gift from God. (Ephesians 4:11)

Teaching Father - Rev. Ray Hylton
Pastoral Father - Rev. Leeroy Hill
Evangelistic Father - Bishop Tom Branham
Prophetic Father - Bishop Wayman Ming Jr.
Apostolic Father - Rev. Rick Clendenen

I'm truly thankful for the team that is leading me. Diversity - they are definitely that. Each of them have had a part (and continue to) in my life at specific seasons. Their wisdom collectively is the biggest safety net I've ever had.

What a team!

What would your team say about you?

2009-05-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

How is your relationship with your team? You may view it one way, but your team may have an entirely different opinion.

The relationship between the lead pastor and the rest of the team pastors is vital to the health and ministry of the church.

If you ask your team about how they view their relationship with you, what do you think they would say?

Another question. What do you feel your staff would say matters most to them as it pertains to maintaining a professional or even a personal relationship with you?

Qualities of a Good Team

2009-05-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

My heart this week has been to focus on the team God has graciously allowed me to work with. Working with a team is so much better then working alone. Can you imagine doing it all again? I remember 10 years ago when Beverly and I came to Indianapolis, we assumed leadership of a church that was struggling with internal dysfunction in it's leadership.

The good news is that we just loved the people through it and an atmosphere of trust was created which gave us the opportunity to set the right climate. Don't get me wrong, this took time. (You don't turn a ship on a dime.) Today, with the right climate, we've been able to produce a culture that is conducive to leadership training.

Building a diverse team has been an exciting challenge. Here are some things that I've kept in mind along the journey.

1. The leader must be gifted & committed to leading the team. - Ephesians 4:11
2. The team must be united under the Lordship of Jesus. - Ephesians 5:23
3. Recruit gifted people for vital roles (especially in areas you are weak in.) - Acts 6:3
4. Give on the job training. - Matthew 28:19-20
5. Create a "servant-leadership" climate where service is more important than position. - Luke 22:26-27
6. Show respect for one another. - Hebrews 13:17
7. Recognize the need for honest and open communication. - 2 Corinthians 12:19
8. Prepare for opposition. - 1 Peter 5:8-9
9. Stay focused on your vision & goals. - Philippians 3:14
10.Be accountable and open to correction. - Revelation 3:19

Building a Great Team!

2009-05-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

Beverly and I are blessed to have a great ministry team. That team consists of pastoral staff, elders, deacons & ministry coordinators. All of which, are the wheels of the ministry at BFWC. Without them, well...we'd be severely handicapped.

As you know, building the right team can take time. Each team member has a unique personality and diverse giftings. Learning how to flow those personalities together can be a challenge. However, when it's right...it can be a win-win situation for you and your congregation.

The Ant - (the driver) (Apostle Paul) - "Excuse me, pardon me, coming through!" These people can appear to be rude, offensive, bossy and just plain over the top. And at times they are. But at least they get the job done. Once they are tempered by the "fruit" of Galatians 5:22-23, they may still have the ability to "cut your ear off" but they are more mindful of how they are perceived.

The Conie - (the peacemaker) (Barnabas) - "Can't we all just get along?" These people strive for peace and can't stand arguing or strong debate. They will defend the underdog and make sure everyone is treated fairly. They are a blessing because of their ability to manufacture peace in almost any situation.

The Locust - (the partier) (Apostle Peter) - "Whens the next church dinner?" These people exemplify the personality of a networker. They would rather talk than work. They have the ability to sell sand in the desert and they almost never know a stranger! They are great for connecting with new people.

The Spider - (the thinker) (Apostle John) - "Let's think before we speak." These people are perfectionist in their personalities. They are often loners. When they offer their opinion, you know they've given a lot of time thinking it through. They are problem solvers and can save your neck if you listen to their council.

We definitely have all four personalities at work in our pastoral team. It's amazing to watch everyone function together - so different, yet so compatible.

We administer a personality test to each of our leaders. This helps us find their best place on the team. Nothing is worse then having personality clashes - it disrupts the flow of ministry. Sometimes it's unavoidable. However if you can understand a person's personality, then you can communicate with them better.

This by far, has been the most valued lesson I've learned in building a great team.

Our pastoral team in Chicago on our last Staff Retreat.
L-R: Jeremey & Tara Mckinney - Children's Pastors
Russell & Beverly Hylton - Senior Pastors
Josh & Jennifer Palmer - Youth Pastors
Nathan & Julie Steensma - Executive Pastors

Leaning on your Staff

2009-05-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

Today I am extremely grateful for the kindness shown to me by our congregation.

Yesterday, Beverly, Kaitlyn and I were surprised by our church family with a special 10 year celebration. All week we have been celebrating the completion of phase one and two with nightly services & events. As we were beginning our second morning service, our staff stopped everything and began a surprise for us that was incredible.

We received letters from city officials, local agencies and friends in the ministry from around the country. We were also surprised to have members of our families in attendance. Our choir & dance teams performed special songs in our honor and a 10 year video was shown in our honor. Also, Bishop Wayman Ming preached a message that was very inspirational!

In addition, our family was overwhelmed with a generous offering & gifts from our congregation, a brand new stainless steel refrigerator, a Wii and a Caribbean cruise.

I am encouraged and thankful to our staff who led the way in this very thoughtful gesture. Apparently they have been planning this for several months and did it all right under our noses. :-)

When your team plans something like this, you are truly grateful and quite frankly embarrassed. However, their thoughtfulness is such a shot in the arm!

Today I commend our team for their affection and love towards their pastors!!!

What do you expect?

2009-05-17T07:47:00.000-07:00

"The spirit of expectancy is breeding ground for miracles". Those are the words I heard Mike Murdock speak years ago at my church where I first youth pastored almost 20 years ago and I still remember it as though it were yesterday. I listen to what people say and their words indicate they don't believe something good is going to happen for them. I not o nly believe, I expect good things to happen to me and for me according to God's Word and His promises.

I do not expect to be tomorrow where I am today...it is that simple! I am doing what I can with what I have to the best of my ability and am leaving the rest to God. I know He loves me and has my best interest at heart and wants me blessed more than I want me to be blessed!

Today is the day the Lord has made.....let us rejoice and be glad......and expect God to do great things! Have a blessed Sunday!

Let the Word do the work

2009-05-13T14:04:00.000-07:00

I have a guy in my church who works for PGA West golf club just a few miles from us and can get me free golf whenever I want. Problem, I either don't have the time or don't take the time to play like I want to. So today, the first time in almost a year I went golfing and it was not pretty. I am not very good anyway, normally shoot in the 90's but today was OUCH...bad.

It took me until the 16th hole to realize one of my MANY problems. I wasn't letting the club do the work. I was swinging too hard and trying to do to much instead of letting up a little, try not to kill the ball and let the club do what it was designed to do.

So on my way home I thought about us as pastors that at times we try to do too much. We think if we work a few more hours and just a little harder that the church will grow. I have found out the hard way that it is simply not always true. You see, when you try to do too much swinging a golf club you end up getting your stance messed up or moving something that needed to be still or bending what needed to be straight.

The point is this. When we try to do too much we usually end up messing things up one way or another. Things get out of whack instead of letting His Word do wat it was intended to do. His word does not fail. That does not mean we should all play golf all week long, preach Sunday and let the Word do the rest. We have some responsibilities and things we should be doing to partner with God. However, nothing we can do, no matter how hard we try can make God's Word more powerful than it already is. So next time, do what you can within reason and then......

LET THE WORD DO THE WORK!

Are You Done Yet?

2009-05-12T17:08:00.000-07:00

Last night I received a very disturbing call that wrecked me for a time. It was my Bishop on the other end informing me that on of our ministers (35) had been pronounced brain dead following a fatal car accident while away with his wife over the weekend.

I am not ging to lie, we were on different planets when it came to our views of ministry and though we were not enemies we were not buddies either if you know what I mean.

After hanging up with Bishop Lake I said a prayer for his wife and kids and started to get emotional whn my wife walked in and asked me what was wrong. I told her what had happened and we both sat there stunned for a few moments. My mind raced with thoughts about his family, his ministry & did he make provisions etc. You see moments like that cause all differences to go away if not but for a short period of time and we remember we are all brothers on the same team. It also makes you realize how much there is to do and if we do not get busy we may miss it!

Jesus said "work while it is yet day for the night comes when no man can work". I am 2 years older than Jason and I have s much to do for my family and for the Kingdom. The question is if there is much to be done..are we doing it and if not, why not?

Let me close with this. None of us have been promised tomorrow or how much more time we have to do what needs to be done so.........ARE YOU DONE YET? If not, what are you waitin for?

Busy or Productive

2009-05-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

Recently in the last year or so we have trimmed away some things that consumed time and money but really wasn't effective when it came to our true purpose. I realized that at times we were doing things just because it seemed everyone else did them. Before I knew it our calendar was always full which at the time seemed really "spiritual". I soon came to realize that busy was foolish if it was not bringing forth the purpose for which we were called. We could be a church known for having alot going on, none if it really great but we had something for everyone. Or, we could be a church known for being very good at certain things, the right things! We are not a buffet church......there are enough of those all around. Instead my goal is to get Legacy to a place that we know exactly who we are and what God wants us to do and if IT does not accomplish exactly that then we will cut it off and let it die!

I realize that some things are not neccessarily bad things but they don't have to be wrong to not be the right things either. Our people have alot going on between work, family and personal responsibilities. If we are going to ask them to participate in something let's make sure it is the right things and if they are worth doing let's do them well!

Any thoughts?

5 Styles of Leadership that always Lose

2009-05-10T13:07:00.000-07:00

#5 - The Fearful Leader

I remember the first staff member we hired I was scared…I knew it didn’t make sense on paper…but I KNEW it was what God wanted.
I remember the first time we moved to being a portable church. I was scared to death…but I KNEW it was what God wanted.
I remember when we moved from being portable into a 1.4 million $$ facility. I was scared…but I KNEW it was what God wanted.
I remember when we launched 2 Sunday worship experiences. It didn’t make sense…it was CRAZY…but I knew it was what God wanted.

I could go on and on. The bottom line ISN’T that a leader never comes face to face with a fearful situation…but rather a leader learns to trust in God’s direction and power rather than give into fear and uncertainty.
When a leader allows fear to control him…the people he leads ALWAYS lose.
Fear forces a leader to embrace the “way things are” rather than how they should be.
Fear causes a leader to think more about what they have to lose rather than what the Kingdom has to gain.
Fear makes a person depend on their power and ability rather than God’s.
Fear leads to impulsive and unwise decisions rather than prayed through and processed ones.

MY prayer for myself is that I NEVER become obsessed with safety and lose sight of HIS SOVEREIGNTY.
He reigns…and IF I BELIEVE THAT THEN I HAVE TO LEAD LIKE I BELIEVE IT!

Any fears you need to face? PCG Pastors…what steps is God asking you to pray about that will only be done if He shows up. Those are God led steps of faith…and never play it safe because we have WAY too much at stake!

5 Styles of Leadership that always Lose

2009-05-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

#4 - The “Keep Everyone Happy” Leader.

You will NEVER please everyone in your church…EVER!
AND…the thing I’ve learned is that when people are upset they are usually the loudest…which makes them seem like the majority.

One of the problems that exist today in church world is that very few people are willing to LEAD…to have convictions and stand up for them…no matter who gets ticked off.
Paul addressed this in Galatians 1:10…we cannot please people AND please Jesus–period!
And if it ever becomes a leaders goal to keep EVERYONE happy…they will be successful in reaching NO ONE.

Leadership takes guts…thick skin…a willingness to take a slap in the face and keep on going.
God didn’t call leaders to make people happy…He called us to lead people to Jesus.
AND…being obsessed with what others think of you is the QUICKEST way to enter into a state of depression that you will never pull out of.

Acts 20:24…we need to consider our lives worth nothing…and do all we can for HIM…not “them!”

Jesus consistently ticked off the religious scholars and pharisees because He spent time with sinners. They even made the statement that He gets cozy with them and treats them like friends.

If they were ticked off at Jesus, they will get ticked off at you. Quit trying to please everyone. Please the one that matters.

5 Styles of Leadership that always Lose!!

2009-05-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

#3 - The “It Will Go Away” Leader

One of the WORSE things a leader can do when they become aware of a problem is IGNORE it…because problems seldom (if ever) just go away.

One of the things I’m learning as a leader is that, when God reveals a problem to me…it isn’t so that I can remain passive about it and hope it will go away–He wants me to take action.

I know leaders who have staff issues in their church…but will not deal with them because they keep thinking if they ignore poor work performance and bad attitudes long enough that the problem will eventually correct itself. I know leaders who allow really bad programming to continue in their church…thinking that one day what is horrible will magically become good. It doesn’t.

Jesus was proactive and confronted issues when they arose. We must do the same. Don't forsake the Mission by allowing a non confrontational approach to ministry. We should always do the work of the Ministry with excellence and not allow others to approach it any other way. Move on the thing that needs to be taken care of now, today, immediately. It will not go away and in a week you will still be making excuses of why you are not dealing with the situation.

This style of Leadership always loses. DOn't let it be you....

5 styles of Leadership that always Lose!!

2009-05-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

#2 - The Apathetic Leader

One of the biggest problems that exist in church world today is that there are leaders that do not care about the people they are serving…or the condition of the world around them.
Apathy is one of satan’s best weapons. He doesn’t mind if we know the truth about life, death, heaven, hell and such…he just wants us not to care about it.
One of his best tactics is to get a pastor or a staff member so focused on going to another church, you know, taking a step “up” in ministry that he/she totally neglects the church where they are supposed to be serving.

The day a leader no longer cares about the people he is serving…he should resign immediately.
The day a leader no longer can get passionate about God’s direction for the ministry they are in…and they are OK with it…BIG problems are only a step away.
I believe a leaders job is to beg God…
**Let me see as You see!
**Let me feel as You feel!

When those two prayers get legs under them…apathy is no longer a possibility.
Passion is essential for longevity in leadership!

What are you doing to constantly refill your passion tank? We must be in THE WORD daily!
Surround yourself with passionate people. (I do not allow negative people around me…can’t handle it!)
Attend conferences where leadership is taught.
Make sure we work on our physical health.

My prayer is that, as a leader, I will always love what I do…who I serve with and the place of ministry God has called me to be. God has called us to a great calling as Men of God to be full of integrity, passion & purpose. I pray that each of us will not be driven by pleasing church people, acceptance of other ministries, our denomination (PCG), but you will be DRIVEN by Passion to build the Kingdom of God by winning the lost and leading them to become fully devoted followers of Christ.

A leader who simply does not care will never be a difference maker!!!

5 Styles of Leadership

2009-05-05T14:29:00.000-07:00

#1 - The Lazy Leader

A church loses when the leadership is lazy and embraces mediocrity.
Lazy leaders waste time asking God to do the very things He has already COMMANDED them to do.
In Genesis 6-8, God announced to Noah that He was going to destroy the world (talk about a bad day)…but…then told Noah that he and his family would be saved (which HAD to be a relief!)
BUT…God’s plan was for NOAH to actually build the boat that would save him and his family.
Noah didn’t pray that God would build the boat. He took ACTION…God was very specific on the details and Noah put time and effort into doing what God commanded Him to do.
If He had been lazy…passive…”a prayer warrior” you know, all of the mumbo jumbo people use as an excuse to not do anything…then he and his entire family would have DIED as a result of his laziness.

Leaders are called to action…and when a leader is lazy and wants “God to do it all” and refuses to follow through in steps of obedience because “it’s hard,” the church loses.
**David had to actually walk down in the valley and whip Goliath’s butt.
**Moses actually had to walk across the Red Sea.
**Peter had to stand up and preach on the day of Pentecost.

Leaders don’t ask God for how little they can do–they constantly ask Him, “what else do You want me to do?”Anything God’s been asking you to do that you are “spiritualizing” rather than obeying?

In the next 5 Days read to find out your style of Leadership.

A Different Perspective!

2009-05-02T13:42:00.000-07:00

In my youth, I thought of missionaries as the people who came to our churches to raise money. They always had their hand out in a posture to receive. They always seemed to live in the land of "not enough". Then, as a young pastor in early short-term missionary travels, I would always find myself at the churches and ministries who lived in that same land. Whether Africa, the Philippines, El Salvador, Mexico, Hungary, or Romania, the land was still the land of "not enough". Once or twice, I recognized a new land, the land of "just enough". They had just enough to make it; and didn't seem quite so dependent on the American church.

When I came to Ghana, it was refreshing to meet someone in a land of familiarity. I'd had never enjoyed a land like this one - it felt so much like the land I live in. I'm not talking about the climate, the food, the amenities, or anything of that nature - I'm talking about the land of "more than enough". My friend, Dr. Ebenezer Markwei is a man with a vision. He is also the biggest giver that I have ever met in my life. He is building a 10,000 seat auditorium, followed by a 150 bed hospital.

Today, we sat with two National leaders, Kings, Chiefs, and Nobles. We were on National Television, as the church hosted a Medical Outreach. More than 30 doctors and nurses were on site. The national Minister of Health and the Minister of Information (equivalent to our Press Secretary) addressed some of the health concerns in Ghana before the church served the people. Medical supplies and services were provided, and the church is paying for the first 100 people to get 100% medical coverage for one year. Pastor Markwei said that the outreach would cost $200,000 US Dollars. You would be blown away if I disclosed how much he and his wife contributed personally for this event.

What's the point? I'm glad you asked. I was reminded today that my perspective of missionaries and pastors around the world hasn't always been accurate. There are men and women of God everywhere in the world - just like you and me - who are great givers! The next time you see a missionary or a pastor from some other part of the world, I encourage you to look more discerning at their hands. Yes, some have their hands extended in a posture to receive; but there are so many who have their hands out in a posture to give. What's your perspective?

Just For Laughs!

2009-05-01T07:54:00.000-07:00

For the past four years, each time I've traveled in Ghana, I saw something on a stick which people were selling on the side of the road. It's not seen at every street corner (like banana chips, nuts, toilet paper, grapes, and more). But if you travel outside the city, you'll see it every so often. It looks like a mini-bear-rug-on-a-stick. It's pink in color, like smoked salmon. The first time I saw it, I asked what it was.

Years ago in Mexico, I learned to never ask someone what they were eating. If you ask what something is in many countries, they assume that you want to try it. I was afraid that they'd do the same thing in Ghana. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that they wouldn't make me eat what I questioned - it was "grasscutter". Grasscutter is in the gopher family. It looks like a cross between gopher and a possom. It's the size of a large possom.

The thing I have feared most just came upon me. We were eating at a nice restaurant. One of the local pastors was eating soup. It looked really good. IT WAS GRASSCUTTER SOUP!!! You guessed it - I ate some. They smoke it and then cook it with all of the necessary spices. It smelled very gamey; but in fact, it was very good. It tasted like smoked turkey meat (dark meat). Not bad. If you ever come to Ghana - give grasscutter a second look!

Just for fun, what is the wildest thing that you have ever eaten? Can you share a mission's experience where you ate something out of the ordinary?

Out of Order!

2009-04-30T09:27:00.000-07:00

The words "out of order" can be a real slap in the face. In America, we see disorder, disrespect, and dishonor on a very regular basis. Just watch a sitcom, late night show, or listen to any comedian, and you'll have to agree with that statement.

This is my fourth trip here to Ghana, and I'm always amazed at the level of respect I see for authority figures. This is a country with order and protocol. When I first came, I was a little thrown back by all of the pomp and circumstance; but today, I see that respect and honor are a priority in the Kingdom - even if it's not in our culture.

Church government here is not influenced by American culture. They are not democratic. They don't vote on their pastor. They have a Kingdom mentality. It's interesting to me that Jesus was constrained to do miracles in his hometown. The Bible doesn't say that he "would not do many miracles", it says that he "couldn't do many miracles. " He said that "a prophet is without honor in his hometown."

I wonder if many of today's miracles are seen in other parts of the world, while in America, we may only see an occasional back ache or head ache get healed, because of the dishonor, disrespect, and disorder we so often tolerate.

Maybe someone is "out of order" in your church. How do you handle them? Is there a process for church discipline? We must not allow people who have money, political clout, cultural relevance, or anything else keep us from standing for order, unity, and God's peace in our churhces in ministries!

On A Mission!

2009-04-29T06:12:00.000-07:00

My wife & I just got off the plane with a team here in Ghana, West Africa. I remember in 1985, while preaching for a Tongan congregation in Seaside, California, when God spoke to me about Mission's travel.

As a child, my parents fought often. Prior to their divorce, we would spend countless nights in motels and relatives homes. My mom would take us to a local airport and we would watch the planes touch and go. Airports represented peace and tranquility for me. That day in 1985, I heard a loud plane engine in the valley. It caught my attention; and I watched that plane take off. The Lord spoke and said, "the very tool that I have used to bring peace and tranquility will also take you to many places around the world." There were days when I couldn't wait to travel.

As a husband and father, traveling is tough; but I know that I'm a man on a mission! My friend here in Ghana is building a 10,000 seat auditorium. He has planted about 20 churches. He, too, is a world traveler and has written many books. He comes to our church each year; and our families are very close.

What are the benefits of "thinking outside the box"? First, "Divine Connections" are awaiting you somewhere. You are the solution to someone's problem! Second, your family and church need to think beyond themselves. People everywhere in the world live with so much less than we do. For example, here in Ghana, the average household income is under $400 per month. Third, it's eye opening when you see the view most of the world has toward us (Americans). Often, they see us as arrogant "know it alls". I've discovered that some of the brightest people in the world are outside the U.S. We have so much to learn from them.

What's your mission? How are you reaching beyond your local church? What connections do you have beyond the norm? Are you on a mission?

How is Your Marriage Ministry?

2009-04-26T16:21:00.000-07:00

The other day, I was thinking about the different stages of marriage. I quickly wrote these – what I want call “The Four Stages of Marriage”. This list is certainly not exhaustive; but it has been quite exhausting. We all know that marriage takes hard work. I am committed to working harder on my ministry at home than my ministry at the church. If I gain success in the ladder, but fail with the former, I’m a failure at both locations.

The Inquiry Stage was the first thought that hit me. At this stage, I wanted to know everything about my then girlfriend Missy. What time does she wake up? Where does she go for lunch? What does she like to eat? Does she enjoy the same music as me? What perfume does she like? What is her taste in clothes, purses, jewelry, etc…? Then, after we got married, there were some many other questions. Questions like, does she like butter or margarine? What kind of toothpaste does she prefer? Will she sleep on the right or left side of the bed? Does she snuggle or need her space?

Next, I thought of the Investigation Stage. That was the stage that I wanted to know more of the private things about my wife; and vice versa. I had to learn to trust and be trusted in this stage.

Then came the Investment Stage. This was the stage where I realized that there needed to be a willingness to make deposits today for the needed withdrawals down the road.

Finally, you get to enjoy the Intimacy Stage of marriage. Today, after just fifteen years of marriage, I’m learning things about my wife that I wished I’d known fourteen and a half years ago. We’re closer, more loving, more forgiving, more embracing, and more intimate than ever before; but I’m still looking for greater advancement in this stage of our married life.

Here’s the question: Are you still excited about your marriage? Do you give your wife the “first fruits” of your time, or does she get your “leftovers”? What does your “date night”, “date lunch”, or “alone” time with your spouse look like?

Our Part in the Body

2009-04-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

A lot of comparison can be made between our physcial body and the church. Every physcial body is basically made up of four things:

1. Vital organs (i.e., heart, kidney, liver, lungs, etc)
2. Skeleton or bones (structure - internal)
3. Flesh (i.e., covering of the bones - external)
4. Waste (stuff that just passes through.)

When we join the Kingdom of God we have the opportunity to decide if we are going to be a vital organ, skeleton, flesh or waste.

Where do you see yourself in our fellowship (PCG)?

Vital organ
Skeleton
Flesh
Waste

Tenacity births Longevity

2009-04-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

Staying where God plants you is vital. I truly believe God will come looking for you in the place He planted you.

John Mark quit during Paul's first missionary journey when things got tough.
Demas forsook Paul having loved this present world.

If we are to have an effective ministy we must learn to pass through the seasons of suffering. Some things are better learned in the valley than on the mountain top. When God allows us to pass through the veil of misunderstanding we must know that He is doing a work IN us so He can do a work THROUGH us.

While passing through the trial God is building my spiritual stamina so that I don't quit in the middle of what God has called me to do.

I remember this quote from Tommy Barnett many years ago. He said, "You can think about quitting as long as you know you're not going to." That stuck with me.

My friends, can you take a "lickin & keep on tickin?"

Elected by Men or Called by God?

2009-04-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

Walking in my life call (assignment) isn't something I do to appease men, but rather to please Him who called me.

What is your role in the body of Christ?
Would that role cease if you were no longer the "Senior Pastor?"

I guess my thoughts today on this blog (blog = an online personal journal with reflections, comments, and often hyperlinks provided by the writer.) is that if God called me to walk in the office of an apostle, prophet, evangelist, teacher or pastor - then does it cease if an election says "no"?

Kingdom Minded Leader

2009-04-20T11:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a question: Are we all called to lead?

I think we are are all called to lead in some way. (i.e., home, business, church, etc.)

When God begins to call you to a new level, what do you have to do internally to prepare for that level? In other words, how do you continue to grow and develop your leadership skills?

Is it more conferences?

Is it more books?

Is it more relationships?

Is it more retreats?

Another question: Do you know what your role is in the body of Christ?

I guess I could ask that question another way....what is your assignment? (i.e., life call.)

GET RID OF THE EXCESS WEIGHT

2009-04-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, this post is a little personal but that's ok. Even though I spent most of my young life a skinny kid, most of my adult life has been over weight and out of shape. I must admit that even though I am driven and passionate in ministry, my lack of discipline in that area of eating habits and health is one I have neglected. That is until recently.

Last year I weighed 319 lbs and I was shocked. Although God has blessed my church and ministry I had to be honest that I was being unfair to myself, my family and church. I decided to see a nutritionist and make some changes. I want to be around for years to come for my wife and kids first, and my church second.

To make a long story short today I got back from my monthly appointment and I have lost a total of 39 lbs as I weighed a slim (lol) 280 lbs and dropping. I am not dieting, just eating well balanced healthy meals with the right size portions. On top of that I am excercising 3-4 times a day playing basketball, softball and running 2 miles a day.

I feel better and am excited even more about who I can be to my wife and kids and how this will allow me to be more effective in my relationship with God and in my ministry.

Hebrews 12 reminds us to not only look unto Jesus as the author and finisher of our faith but to lay aside THE WEIGHT and the SIN that so easily trips us up!

I understand the meaning of this text and want to remind each of us that we have a responsibility to take care of the vessel God has given us to operate in for His glory!

I do not know where each of you guys are in this area but hope that each of you will consider examining your physical health so your family as well as the kingdom will have you around for years to come!

HERE'S TO HEALTHY PASTORS INSIDE AND OUT!

When Is Enough, Enough?

2009-04-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have heard it said and have said it myself to my church many times. "If we do not reach outside of our church we are telling our community to go to hell!"

I have read the statistics that less than 10% of churches have any form of evangelism and even less teach it as a regular part of their services. The truth is many people like their church. They know who everyone is, where everything is and know from week to week what is going to happen. I think many of our pastors are like this as well. They know who everyone is, they know everyone loves them and they know nobody there will challenge them either. It is one happy family church.

Even though I believe one day I will, it is still hard to imagine pastoring a church Jeff's size or larger. However, it is unacceptable to imagine me pastoring my church the same size 2-3 years from now. When is enough, enough?

Easter is over and most people are recouping and basking in the glory of a great crowd. I am looking to the next day, the next service, the next opportunity to reach the lost.

Why are we in this? A paycheck, a parsonage....not me. I want to reach the lost and hurting. It is not enough to say those words as spiritual as they sound. We must be continual and intentional in our pursuit of the lost. Easter is not the only time of the year when people are open to the gospel. When is enough, enough?

My building is small but I will add as many services or get as creative as I can to make room for more. I pass by vacant buildings and say "God, that would make a great church". But God keeps me where I am for a reason. I could have taken a bigger church with higher pay and more people in a better community but that would be what most would do. I am not like most and neither are you! The lost are all around you and they are waiting for you to come to them and let them know you care.

WHEN IS ENOUGH ENOUGH?

Easter Is Over, Now What?

2009-04-14T19:23:00.001-07:00

Now that we have celebrated the victories wrought through much prayer, preparation and outreach during this Easter season the question must be asked, "where do we go from here?"

The fact of the matter is the real hard work begins. I have never found it difficult to get a crowd. I have found it hard to keep the crowd. I know, I can hear you all saying "don't we all?"

I think much of this can be attributed to the fact that many churches have no follow up, no plan and no desire to get truly involved. Ministry has truly begun for us. How do we get the 48 that made decisions for Christ to get involved, connected etc. Do we even have much to offer for them to get involved or connected?

Truth be told many churches try putting on a show that they can never follow up with. It is like feeding someone steak the first time you feed them and then offering frozen dinners every time after. Sooner than later they realize you can't give them what they need or deserve and they find it elsewhere.

If you had people make decisions for Christ then you have given birth to babies who must be taken care of or you have abandoned your highest responsibility

We not only have new souls to follow up on but the dozens of families who have expressed interest in connecting with us. The future is bright becasue we have a plan. It did not end on Easter Sunday, it began that day and now that I am rested, it's time to see just how successful we can really be!

What is your plan?

Easter Reflections

2009-04-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

It is the day after Easter weekend, a time like no other to see new faces and touch lives we may never see again. All of us as ministers certainly know the opportunity that has been given and I hopw that we all did what we could to be effective in reaching the unchurched.

This year we held our annual Easter weeeknd celebration in our local park which has a large amphitheater. It is our 9th year and this year a local A/G church of about 100 or so asked if they could partner with us to which we replied...without a doubt yes.

So after months of of our 2 church staff's meeting (alot more work for us this year) we stepped into the weekend on Saturday for a community wide Easter Egg Hunt w/ 30,000 candy filled eggs, 2500 hot dog lunches, brand new bikes and tons of other stuff. Our Mayor, council and poliece chief all came out and in spite of 50 degree weather a crowd of roughly 2000 came out to enjoy the day with us.

Yesterday we held our Easter service in the same park and combined our worship teams, tag team preached a illustrated message (with spanish translation) and held a kids program in the aquatic center near the amphitheater. We gave away more bikes and a easter basket to one lucky family filled with small appliances, toys, dvd and 19" flat screen tv etc

The results were 627 peaople who came to the services. 48 who stood and made confessions of faith. Most of them came down where they received bibles, filled out altar cards and met sme of our pastoral staff. We had a info booth both dys that had packets filled with info on our church and gave away a few hundred of those.

The highlight for me was when we gave the basket away with all the stuff in it, it was given to a spanish woman who had just come down for salvation. When I called her name, she stood and came down with her new spanish bible in hand. She stood in front of the basket of household items, put her bible in front of her face and sobbed.

The weekend is now past but the real work begins. getting people to come has never really been a prolem for us, it is getting people to stay, get connected and start a journey of faith with us.

I hope your weekend was a true success for the kingdom.

TELL US ABOUT WHAT GOD DID FOR YOU!

24 hours left

2009-04-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

He Lived.
He Died.
He Lives Again.

Here we are 24 hours away from the day we Party because He Lives Again. You will have the opportunity to speak into the lives of more UnConvinced people's lives tomorrow in your church than any other time of the year. On Easter more people far from God attend church around the globe than any other Sunday in 365 days.

Are you ready?? Have you prepared?? Sight, Sound & Smell?? Is your mind clear?? Is the message HOT?? Have you prayed, fasted, asked and begged God to give you a harvest. The harvest is ready, He only needs workers to gather. You are the harvester.

As people walk into your church on Sunday, speak with Passion, Power, Boldness, Love and knowing that if you don't touch them it may be another year before they will hear this message of Hope again.

Get Ready, Get Ready, Get Ready!!!

4 questions to ask ourselves as Leaders/Pastors

2009-04-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

Exodus 24:

o If you don’t have leadership that is on fire you can’t expect your church to be on fire
o I am ready to quit; STAY IN THE GAME; if you have not been there, u will

Who is with ME??

Moses the man of God needed to know the answer. Moses said to God, before I can lead, I must know who is with me.

Lead Pastor; average stay of Pastors in churches is 22 months; you are a church hopper as a Pastor. If you want people to buy into you, then you must buy into them.

Love your staff. You might go to another church and work but you will never have a pastor love you as much as I do.

Satan does not want to split your church, he wants to split your staff. Don’t say, I do as much as he does.

Pastors carry a weight on him you can never imagine.

Your staff is depending on me to: be faithful to my wife, carry the finances & get the vision.

You have got to know who is with ME???

Am I pleasing you??

We must know this because Pastors will be put in uncomfortable situations

Pastors we are Prophets of God; or are we Prostitutes of a message that we speak to get paid for it.

Church work is when you please people

Ministry is when you please God

We depend way to much on our ability instead of God’s anointing

Don’t blame yourself when things are bad, you might take credit when things are good.

God knew all mistakes we would make before He called us. He calls those

If Jesus can’t please them then you can’t either.

Am I placing limits on me that God hasn’t placed on me?

2 Corinthians 4:7…God most often puts His most powerful gifts in His most weakest vessel
What is the vision you have not even spoke yet, because you are afraid it will not happen. He has empowered you, enabled you, His power is limitless

Will we see you??
If your presence does not go with us, we don’t want to go….Moses...Exodus 33:15-18
Do you want attendance or repentance.
Don’t back down from bible.
You must first seek the presence of God
When was the last time you were desperate for God

What is next??
CLC began with 6 people in a living room
April 9th, 2003 had 55; 6 years later we have 335 people; Sunday we are expecting 50 Salvations
Ask God what is next. At the end of the day, we want people to see how awesome God is.
Quit thinking people come to see you or your church. Let them see God and him lifted up.
#1 passion of the pastor/church must be, we want the Presence of God.
Your team will never know the weight the pastor feels, but he will carry it for you, because he wants to carry the ball.
Pastors, be ready to carry the ball. You have to want it if you want your people to want it.

Preach the Word

2009-04-08T14:36:00.000-07:00

Men of the Clothe, Clergy, Ordained, Reverend, Brother, Pastor, Bishop,

No really, does the title matter? I say we just drop the titles and pompous attitudes that go with them and be Men called by God to "Preach the Word."

It is Passion Week with only a couple of days left until Good Friday then on the 3rd Day He Lives Again!!! Are you ready to "Preach the Word" on Easter Sunday. Remember the previous blogs, they (UnConvinced people) will be there. Are we ready for them by Sight, Sound & Smell?? But are you ready to do what ONLY YOU can do as the Lead/Senior Pastor??

I have done alot to be prepared this weekend, but there are things i must leave to my team to do because i should not be doing things that others can do, but i should be doing the thing that ONLY I CAN DO, "Preach the Word".

2 Timothy 4:2-5; NLT
Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.

Preaching the Gospel of Christ is offensive to men.
If you’re being criticized for your sex talks and creative marketing and never for preaching Christ, something might be wrong with your preaching.

Preaching God’s standards will tick some people off.
If your sermons always make people feel better about themselves and you NEVER confront their sin, they won’t likely see their need for a Savior.

Preaching about the miraculous power of God stirs people up.
If your typical message is five steps to a better life, you may be overlooking the one step of truly taking God at His word.

Preach the Word!!

Don't Freak Out

2009-04-07T22:03:00.000-07:00

Now for those of you that have planned and prepared for people to come, Don't Freak OUT!! what i am saying is this, if you prepared and are ready, there will be people you did not expect. Don't Freak OUT, when they don't look like us, act like us and smell like us. They might be there out of obligation but our responsibility is to maek them feel like someone cares about them.

Remember this is what church is all about, bringing people in that don't know Him. You know we are celebrating the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross for these people. So, DON"T FREAK OUT because they are different from you.

i will go back to my original question yesterday, What are you doing about it?? You might say well i don't want to do anything out of the ordinary to try to get them to our church or i don't want to do anything that might be offensive to our charter members or something that might tick off the deacon board. I say tick them off and make them uncomfortable. The problem in the church today is that we have allowed the Christians to get comfortable sitting in our churches seeeeeeeking more of God, when all the time they should be OUT SHARING God with our communities. I don't really give a rat's if it makes the Christians uncomfortable.

Right now God has honored clc by giving us some of these Different people that are attending our church. We have 4 couples living together, 2 homosexuals and a dancer at a Strip Club attending. As a matter of fact the dancer's boyfriend accepted Christ 3 weeks ago, they are living together and they attended our Marriage Intensives last night. We preach the message strong continually believing that those far from God will accept Him. As a matter of fact the Strip Club dancer that attended the Marriage Intensive with her boyfriend, heard teaching and a message on how Pornography can destroy our marriages. She has not accepted Christ, but told Karen my wife, she would be back next week to hear more. They don't look like me or act like me but they do feel welcome and accepted because we DON"T FREAK OUT even though they are different.

Do something different and out of the norm on Easter to reach your community. I have attached a video clip you need to check out. It is a news clip from Fox 2 News in St. Louis. They are interviewing one of the church plants in our District about their message title for this weekend's message, "Easter in the Octagon". Spirit of St. Louis Church, Pastor Tom Skiles is speaking a message centered on UFC, Jesus was the Ultimate FIghter. Because of the title and controversy in the "Church" community, they have got news coverage and lots of other coverage. DON"T FREAK OUT because they are using Ultimate Fighting as a basis to bring people to Christ.

Ck it out: http://www.fox2now.com/video/?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=3627840

Don't Freak OUT, but do something to attract the UnConvinced to Christ. Quit trying the keep the Saved, go after the Lost. Jesus left the 99 to go find the 1.

What are we doing about it??

2009-04-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

So here we are the beginning of Passion Week. I ask the question, what are we doing about it?? This weekend more people that are UnConvinced will attend churches around the globe than any other time of the year. They might go out of obligation or because it is time for family Easter lunch or it is the right thing to do but the fact is, THEY WILL BE THERE in your church. The question is, What are you doing about it??

Do you have any special plans to make the UnConvinced feel welcomed? Have you gone out of your way to train or establish more volunteers that will greet people on the parking lot or outside the front doors? Have you checked the Sight, Sound and Smell of your facility? You know people that are coming Sunday will be checking these things out. When they come on the property and into our facility will they see clutter or even dirt? Will they hear music they recognize or will they hear Sis. Snooty gossiping about someone?? What does your facility smell like?? Is your bathrooms clean and FRESH? What about the kids rooms and nursery?

You might be thinking, Eddie, the only thing i am thinking about is studying my Easter message. You have preached that message over and over for years now, surely you know it. I DO NOT underestimate the importance of being prepared to preach the word, but if the UnConvinced walk into our churches on Sunday and are met by Rude People and no one really cares that they are there and the place looks like you just had a yard sale and somebody just peeeeed all over the floor, then they will be turned off immediately.

Make sure the UnConvinced are greeted with a warm smile and love. Prepare some people to talk to those that no one else wants to talk to because they don't look like, act like and smell like us. And for God's sake, clean up the CRAP around our facilities.

We established a prayer team for this week and are praying that 50 UnConvinced people will make a decision for Christ on Easter Sunday at clc. They are going to show up at your church on Sunday, maybe not for the right reason, but they will be there. The biggest opportunity you will have all year to speak into the lives of more UnConvinced people's lives in one setting is Easter Sunday.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING ABOUT IT???

Graphic Design

2009-04-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here was some info passed along by one of our pastors--Ken Rowe. Thought you might like to take a look.

Why aren't you (really) good at graphic design? via Seth's Blog by Seth Godin on 3/31/09
http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/

Ten years ago, you had a wide range of excuses for being a lousy visuals person. Starting with no talent, leading to no skill and going from there.

But now, in a world where it is expected that professionals will be able to make beautiful powerpoint slides, handsome business cards, clever bio photos and a decent website, it's as important as driving. And easier to learn and do, and requiring less talent.

No, you and I will never be gifted designers or breakthrough designers. But there's really no reason not to be really good.

I put together a page with some blogs, books and sites you can check out. An hour a day for a month and you won't have to hide your face in shame. Sure, hire the very best in the world when you need a breakthrough. But you don't have to pay for better-than-mediocre design. You can do it yourself.

Keep Your Focus!

2009-03-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

A distraction can be anything or anyone who derails us from the assignment God has for our lives. I've discovered that a distraction will always send the wrong message. It will tell you to quit when you should press on. It will tell you to divorce when you should work through the issues. It will tell you to go back to your old ways when you need to put the past behind and live in the now.

I recently read about a lady who was distracted with the wrong message! It was a wrong E-mail message. The message was so disturbing that it caused her to faint. Let me read you the story: “…A couple from Minneapolis decided to go to Florida to ‘thaw out’ during one particularly icy winter. They planned to stay at the very hotel where they spent their honeymoon twenty years earlier.

“Because of hectic schedules, it was difficult to coordinate their travel schedules. So, the husband left Minnesota and flew to Florida on Thursday, with his wife flying down the following day. The husband checked into the hotel. There was a computer in his room, so he decided to send an e-mail to his wife. However, he accidentally left out one letter in her e-mail address, and without realizing his error, he sent the e-mail.

“Meanwhile…somewhere in Houston, a widow had just returned home from her husband’s funeral. He was a minister of many years who was called home to glory following a sudden heart attack. The widow decided to check her e-mail, expecting messages from relatives and friends. After reading the message, she fainted.

“The widow’s son rushed into the room, found his mother on the floor, and saw the computer screen which read:
To: My Loving Wife
Subject: I’ve Arrived
Date: January 8
Message: I know you’re surprised to hear from me. They have computer here now and you are allowed to send e-mails to your loved ones. I’ve just arrived and have been checked in. I see that everything has been prepared for your arrival tomorrow! Looking forward to seeing you then! Hope your journey is as uneventful as mine was… P.S. Sure is hot down here!”

This lady got the wrong message. The wrong message will distract you every time. And remember: A distraction always sends the wrong message! What are the things that distract us? How can we avoid distractions? Any thoughts?

How Do I Know What God Wants Me To Do?

2009-03-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

People ask all the time: “How Do I Know What He Wants Me To Do?” It's a great question. We are all unique. Even as pastors, our assignment, giftings, strengths and weaknesses differ from one another.

The Psalmist said in Psalm 139:3-5, “…You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You both precede and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head…” I'm thankful that God’s hand of blessing is on us.

Jeremiah's assignment was clear: “…The word of the LORD came to me, saying, 5 ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations…” (Jeremiah 1:4-5). I have discovered that when it comes to ministry, it takes many years before you discover the purpose for which you were created. Then, all of a sudden, something shifts. You say, "This is why I was created!"

What clues may suggest that we've had a defining moment? First, something you love may be a clue to something God has assigned you to fix. I used to hear people say, "If you don't want to go to Africa, don't say it! God will call you to go there!" I used to believe that. I don't anymore. I believe that God delights in giving us the desires of our hearts. He's not mean. He won't punish us by sending us to a place we despise. He'll put a desire in our hearts to fix a problem, call us to that place, and anoint us to fix a problem we were created to fix.

Secondly, something you hate may be a clue to something God has assigned you to correct. For many years in the south, African Americans were forced by law to sit in the back of the bus. But one courageous woman hated that injustice enough to do something about it! After a hard days work in Montgomery, Alabama, Rosa Parks sat down on a crowded bus. When the bus filled, she refused to give her seat to a white man! Her stand that day led to much needed, dramatic changes in our country! You will not change a situation until it becomes intolerable. Whatever you tolerate, you will not change; but when something becomes intolerable, God can use you to bring change!

Finally, something you grieve over most may be a clue to something God has assigned you to heal. There is a lady in our church who was told a year ago that her husband had cancer. They gave him six months to live. Forty one days later, he was gone. They had three children in their twenties. This family was not prepared for it. He was in his fifties. Five weeks after his funeral, this grieving wife got a phone call that her youngest daughter (twenty-one) was killed in a car accident. After several months of pain and learning to deal with grief, this mom and wife started a "Grief Share" ministry; and today she has two support groups; and is starting a third. She is discovering that she was created by God to comfort grieving moms and wives.

Like Jeremiah, my prayer for you today is that you can say, "Lord, you've placed your hand of blessing on my head!"

Who's Home Tonight?

2009-03-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Years ago, I had a young man approach me with a request for lunch. He spent several minutes sharing all of the wonderful things that he was doing in recovery ministry. Teaching several nights each week at the Homeless Shelter and Recovery Homes and Programs, his testimony was quite impressive. He was influencing people well into the hundreds. He was (and is today) one of the most radical soul winners I have ever known.

At lunch that day, he said, "Pastor Jeff, I've been attending your church for more than six months now. One day, I'd really like to join your ministry team and staff." My first thought was "Wow! This guy is amazing! Let's talk salary and do this thing." But the Holy Spirit convicted my heart. He said, "Jeff, he's doing too much!" So, I started to ask more questions. Finally, I said to this man, "I'm sorry. I couldn't have you on my staff. You do too much. You're only home one night each week. I require that my staff is home no less than three nights each week, having quality family time. The only way I could ever hire you is if you preach and teach less." He was shocked by my words. But he took my advice, quickly consolidated some of the teaching nights to one night. Instead of going to the programs, he got permission to bring them to the church for our recovery night (Tuesdays). About one year later, he joined my staff. Today, after five years, he has an awesome recovery ministry; and our church has grown ever since.

What about your leaders? Who's home tonight? What are your requirements for staff? Do you require your music pastor, for example, to be in the office at 9 a.m. (when they may have had rehearsals until midnight the night before)? Is your youth pastor expected to work 70 hours a week (that wouldn't be in writing - but do they feel pressure from you to perform)? Do they know that you expect them to take days off, vacation time, study time, prayer time, and family time? I have a confession to make. I won't be home tonight. I wasn't home last night. And, I won't be home tomorrow night. This week is an exception. Sorry if this surprises you or sounds a bit hypocritical. I promise that I'll be home more next week. My family is enjoying Heavenly Ski Resort in Lake Tahoe with my brother and his family at their Time Share.

March Madness

2009-03-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you asked yourself, "did I sign up for this?" I know March is considered, "March Madness" but come on already.

Well, now that I've gotten that off my chest - I feel better. :-)

The truth is, I did sign up for this:

The good, the bad.
The ups, the downs.
The ins, the outs.
The fun, the boring.
The busy, the slow.

1 Timothy 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

Someone sent me a link on youtube yesterday that was encouraging to me. It was Howard Goodman (The Happy Goodmans) singing his signature song, "I Don't Regret a Mile." I haven't heard that song in years and yet it came at just the right time.

Sometimes you just have to remind yourself of Who called you! I'm thankful for the call and thankful for the opportunity to serve in the Kingdom.

Faithful & Fruitful,

Russell