“Pastors only work on Sundays, right?” I’ve heard that phrase countless times, usually spoken with a smirk. While it might sound harmless, it reveals a common misconception about ministry. What many don’t see are the countless hours pastors spend praying, preparing, and serving behind the scenes. Sundays may be the most visible part of a … Continue reading Revolving Hat Rack
There are few things more disheartening in ministry than fractured relationships—especially when they come from within the very circle you trusted most. Like so many pastors and church leaders, I’ve often experienced the confusion that comes when someone you thought was a friend suddenly goes silent without any explanation. As much as that sort of … Continue reading Relationships Gone Cold
One of my favorite pastimes is working in the yard—especially the backyard. No matter where we’ve lived, I’ve always treated that space as a kind of sanctuary. I love the whole process: landscaping, planting gardens, and even the simple rhythm of mowing the grass. If you’ve ever visited my home, you already know—my backyard is … Continue reading Mud & Grace
In today’s culture, “tolerance” often means accepting all beliefs and behaviors as equally valid. The idea of calling something “wrong” has become almost taboo. Judging others is now seen as the worst possible offense. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses this issue with surprising clarity. In Matthew 7, He gives us two powerful … Continue reading Do Not Judge
Dear Mr. President, Congratulations on your election as the 47th President of the United States. Please know that we are praying for you here in Kentucky as you begin your second term. May the Lord grant you wisdom, discernment, and strength as you lead our nation through these pivotal times. I want to express my … Continue reading Dear Mr. President
“I believe in God, but not religion.” This type of comment makes me think that our religious services aren’t offering God in a way that people can sit down at the spiritual table and feast. It means that God isn’t being presented, well, as God. Let’s be honest. We like to wrap God up in … Continue reading Jesus Uncensored
On Friday evening, December 3, 1999, my wife and I were on our way to the NC District Church of the Nazarene’s Christmas celebration. Before getting on the highway, we pulled into a gas station to fill up. The wind chill was below zero, which was unusually cool for North Carolina. Even though I wore … Continue reading Furnace Club
The Bible is the bestselling book of all time. Every year it sells more than 100 million copies. It has been translated into more than 700 languages. The Guinness Book of World Records estimates that the Bible has sold over five billion total copies. Many have tried to discredit it. All have failed. Followers of … Continue reading Biblical Worldview
“If you want everyone to like you, don’t be a pastor. Go sell ice cream.” ~Ed Stetzer People want to be liked. This seems especially true for pastors and ministry leaders, and rightfully so. Wanting to be appreciated by those we’ve committed our lives to serve is only natural. Yet we know that some people … Continue reading Wounds & Scars
We live in serious times. In a matter of days, life as we know it has been turned upsidedown. Even so, the call of the Body of Christ is to participate in the Great Commission. So, while the work of the church may look different in the coming days, her mission remains the same: To Make … Continue reading Coronavirus & The Church
Brian L Powell 