There is an unusual pattern found throughout the pages of scripture. We witness it in the lives of people like Moses, Gideon, Rahab, Jonah, and the twelve disciples. Interestingly, God calls the most unlikely candidates to accomplish the most amazing things over and over again. God repeatedly uses ordinary people for seemingly impossible assignments. He … Continue reading In Over Your Head
Recently, I received a text message from an old friend. Although the message was only two sentences long it jolted me in a good way. The words were powerful; tears filled my eyes instantly. It took me back in time to a meaningful experience I shared with someone I love. At that moment God reminded … Continue reading As Good As It Gets
In the Garden, God told Adam and Eve they could partake of everything except for one tree: The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. God supplied all they would ever need for life at its fullest. Yet, for love to truly be reciprocated there had to be an alternative; it was that one … Continue reading Reflecting His Image
Recently, I had a very vivid dream. Although I dream often, it is seldom that I wake up because the dream is so realistic that it startles me. However, on this particular night, I awoke feeling overwhelmed with the presence of God. I had tears in my eyes and a deep sense of joy in … Continue reading Dreaming Dreams
Someone recently asked me what I would focus on if I were trying to steward new life in a declining or stagnant congregation. I told them I would focus on three things intently, and I would not waver. Renewal First, I would cultivate a culture of renewal/revival: a kingdom culture of transformation. We should do … Continue reading Three Things
In middle school and part of high school, I was on the wrestling team. I was good at it. There was a technique rarely used called the “barbwire.” It became my finishing move. During that time I was consumed with wrestling. It was my identity. Later in high school, I took an interest in playing … Continue reading Identity Crisis
“For the LORD is good; His loving-kindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations.”~Psalm 100:5 God is good. He is far better than we think He is. Too often we reduce God’s goodness to a fun little catchphrase frequently repeated in church on Sundays: “God is good all the time and all the time God … Continue reading God Is Good
“Man cannot live without joy; therefore when he is deprived of true spiritual joys it is necessary that he become addicted to carnal pleasures.” ~Thomas Aquinas There is no such thing as a joyless Christian. The culture of heaven is established in celebration. Scripture contains various commands for us to rejoice. Giving thanks is good … Continue reading Return To Joy
Spiritual discipline is the chief aim of the Christian life. Learning to walk in harmony with the Holy Spirit is essential in one’s walk with Jesus. Superficiality, on the other hand, is our greatest distraction. Lack of depth is the curse of Western culture. We fail to recognize that our desire for instant satisfaction is … Continue reading Spiritual Disciplines
Brian L Powell 