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
“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound…” ~Isaiah 61:1 Walking in the anointing of … Continue reading Walking In The Anointing
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
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
God ordains authority. If you’re not submitting to the authority structures in your life you are opposing God’s will for your life. As long as you oppose God’s will for your life you’ll never walk in the fullness of God’s promises for your life. We are all in a fight; it’s a spiritual battle. We … Continue reading Submission To Authority (Part 2)
One year at Easter a pastor friend of mine showed a clip from, “The Passion of the Christ,” which is a very graphic movie portraying the crucifixion of Jesus. The scene depicted the Roman soldiers nailing Jesus to the cross. As the clip was being played a woman, who was a board member, got up, … Continue reading The Cross Works & Nothing Else Does
A few weeks ago over 200 people, including forty pastors, came together at a campground in Summerville, KY. The reason we gathered was to discern God’s direction as it pertains to a piece of property, as we have been in discussions with the owners of the campground about a possible purchase. With such a big … Continue reading One Thing Is Needed
One thing I’ve learned in ministry over the years is that pastors want to be liked. Some want to be liked so badly that they’re willing to become something they’re not. When that happens they began mimicking other leaders and projecting an image that is not at all who God’s called them to be. Even … Continue reading Religious Costumes
Father, we humble ourselves before you today in the name of Jesus. We praise you because you’re worthy of all glory and honor. You’re a good Father. You’re a God who makes all things possible. You make miraculous promises that always flow from your goodness and grace. We praise you, Father, because you provide love, … Continue reading Prayer Of Adoration
Brian L Powell 