Is hypocrisy endemic in our leadership?
Hypocrisy is pretense to being what one really is not, especially the pretense of being a better person than one …
Search results for: leadership
“If anyone wants to provide leadership in the church, good! But there are preconditions.” ~Apostle Paul
It is a good thing to want to be a leader in the assembly (church) that is called out of …
“Good leadership is a channel of water controlled by God; He directs it to whatever ends He chooses.” ~King Solomon
God is God. God is in control. I don’t get that some days. What about that jerk that is …
“Good leadership is a channel of water controlled by God; he directs it to whatever ends he chooses.” ~King Solomon
Sometimes my thoughts wander off when I am praying and meditating. They move away to my “agenda” and what I …
“Love and truth form a good leader; sound leadership is founded on loving integrity.” ~King Solomon
When we think of leaders, how often do we think of love and truth? That should become our normal criteria. …
What is the most dangerous threat to my leadership?
We often see danger as lurking outside of us. Here is a sober reminder from Brandon Cox. Something along the …
“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” ~John F. Kennedy
Do I love to learn? Do I enjoy listening and gaining new knowledge or a new perspective? Leadership and learning …
"Two elements of successful leadership: a willingness to be wrong and an eagerness to admit it." ~~Seth Godin
This is tough to do but Seth Godin nails it. If we are going to reach our goals, we …
"Leadership is a combination of strategy and character. If you must be without one, be without the strategy." ~~Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf
Leadership is important and it is not to be ignored. All the strategy and vision in the world won’t help …
The Stupidest Thing I’ve Ever Thought
Tom Gilson is a senior editor with The Stream and author of six books, including Too Good to be False: How Jesus’ Incomparable …
“Now Abraham was old, well advanced in years. And Yahweh [the Lord] had blessed Abraham in all things.” ~Moses
There are a lot of stories in the Old Testament about amazing men of God. One common theme in many …
The problem with strategic thinking
Check out this great insight via Jim Denison, PhD. As Jim observes, we live in unprecedented times. Jim is a …
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” ~James
Greed and lust lead to violence. Just read today’s news headlines to see that is true. We don’t have something, …
Is work a good thing?
Am I working hard for Jesus? Am I working as hard as the Apostle Paul? Or am I hardly working? …
Why does Jesus the Messiah question the religious elites?
Jesus had lots of questions for the religious elites of his day. He pressed them and would not let them …
Is it a problem to oppose the precious stone whom God has exalted — his Son Jesus?
Jesus was constantly getting under the skin of the religious leaders and scholars. At the conclusion of the story Jesus …
How does God choose leaders?
God shows us how to choose leaders. These are the best principles to apply in all cases, particularly political. Our …
“Love does not envy or boast.” ~Apostle Paul
We see athletes do it all the time. Strutting their stuff when they do something cool. Subtly we are learning in …
“Watch yourself.” ~Apostle Paul
We often see danger as lurking outside of us. Here is a sober reminder from Brandon Cox. Something like “I …
Are we jumping on others failures when we do the same things?
How do I want to be treated? With respect. With understanding. I like to be given the benefit of the …
Do Cessationists and Continuationists (Charismatics and Pentecostals) Need Each Other?
I have been reluctant to speak out too much on this. I stick to scripture and what it has to …
“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” ~King Solomon
Old age is generally held in honor and the aged in society are to be respected. Because of the wisdom …
“Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities.” ~Apostle Paul
The main thing: God is God. God is in control. I don’t get that some days. What about that jerk …
“God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God.” ~Apostle Paul
So here we go. Let’s check off the list. I am not wise. I am not mighty. I am not …
Are we ready to embrace the cross of Yeshua [Jesus]?
34 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, …
“Whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.” ~Jesus
And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called them to …
Is Jesus clear about what it takes to follow him?
And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, …
Why was Jesus the Messiah regarded as a teacher and prophet?
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching… Matthew 7:28 Why it matters: …
“Whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave.” ~Jesus
Jesus is clear about what is important. It is not about being a leader. It is not about who sits …
Do down-to-earth people stand firm?
Ah, now there we go. Down to earth people. We all seem to admire them. But is that said of …
“Tell those rich in this world’s wealth to quit being so full of themselves and so obsessed with money, which is here today and gone tomorrow.” ~Apostle Paul
Over the years, many churches have developed a model to explain disciple giving and the tithe. Others have used a …
Are we ready to tell the next generation about God?
Are you ready for a new generation of disciples? Pastors, meet the Millennials. Millennials, meet XYZ church. Oops, there is …
Are we being naïve about certain ministers?
This is quite common. I don’t think of it that way naturally, but it is when you start looking below …
Why leaders push for position? Why do demagogues and delegates meet for summit talks, the God-deniers, the Messiah-defier?
King David understood terrorism very well. He was in battle after battle for his life and his men. He defeated …
Are we a hinderance?
Why it matters: Life is tough. Jesus knows that. He really knows that. Jesus has a warning. Am I ready …
Are you a servant-leader?
There is a lot being said, by “leaders”, about being servant leaders. I have a friend that has written a …
Will we do exactly like Jesus says? Yes, that is our job.
Jesus has things he wants us to do. He gives us instructions. Jesus wants us to be meek. Do …
Will we be happy if we are meek and gentle?
Jesus is clear that we will be more than happy (aka blessed) if we are meek and gentle. We will …
What does Jesus think about servant-leaders? Is that what we are called to be?
Jesus isn’t enamored with our being a leader who serves. Jesus calls on us to be a servant or a …
Where is God today? Is He around?
Why it is important: Some days it is just not clear where God is. He doesn’t seem to be anywhere …
Do we have contempt for issues of doctrinal differences of opinion? Where do we draw the line?
Why it matters: Am I a member of the “doctrine police” constantly issuing heretic alerts? That is a good question …
How much time do I spend jockeying for position with others?
Jesus challenges us to stop being competitive. We are always comparing ourselves with others. It is a serious problem. It …
Why is God’s goal for us is to do everything in love?
Sometimes I am stunned by the simplicity of how God speaks to us. Through Paul He gave it to us …
Is humility easy?
Humility isn’t easy. Jesus challenges me to love and think of others first. That is it. Nothing else. Jesus knows …
“Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” ~Jesus
When I come to the Messiah as someone who misses God’s goal (aka sinner), I must come in humility. I …
“Go and make disciples of all nations.” ~Jesus
Every apostle was a disciple, but not every disciple was an apostle. Every person who believes in Jesus is called …
“Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father.” ~Apostle Paul
Old age is generally held in honor and the aged in society are to be respected. Because of the wisdom …
“Leaders can’t afford to make fools of themselves, gulping wine and swilling beer.” ~King Lemuel
Here is great advice. Don’t get drunk. There is no good that comes from it. Leaders need a clear and …
What does Jesus teach about humility?
When I come to the Messiah as someone who misses God’s goal (aka sinner), I must come in humility. I …
Are the disciples of Jesus just the Apostles or believers in general?
Every apostle was a disciple, but not every disciple was an apostle. Every person who believes in Jesus is called …
“The wicked are edgy with guilt, ready to run off even when no one’s after them; Honest people are relaxed and confident, bold as lions.” ~King Solomon
A lion is a mighty and very courageous animal. Jesus is the Lion of the tribe of Judah. I want …
“Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant.” ~Jesus
Jesus is clear. I am to be a servant. Jesus shows me the way. Jesus made himself a slave of …
Old Age — Should we respect the old?
Old age is generally held in honor and the aged in society are to be respected. Because of the wisdom …
“Do not be called leaders; for One is your Leader, that is, the Messiah.” ~Jesus
Jesus isn’t enamored with my being a leader who serves. Jesus calls on me to be a servant or a …
Am I being fickle? Do I get swayed by the next great thing?
Am I being fickle? Do I get swayed by the next great thing spoken by the new charismatic religious leader …
“Hard trials and temptations are bound to come, but woe to him for whoever brings them on!” ~Jesus
Life is tough. Jesus knows that. He really knows that. Jesus has a warning. Am I ready to hear it? …
What does Jesus think of being a “servant leader”? Hint: Can you say “Argle Bargle”?
There is a lot being said, by “leaders”, about being servant leaders. I have a friend that has written a …
“The Master is my light and my salvation — whom shall I fear?” ~King David
I have a number of things I am afraid of. God is God and Jesus is working with me to …
“The gossip of bad people gets them in trouble; the conversation of good people keeps them out of it.” ~King Solomon
Oh no! Here we go. If I could just keep quiet. If I could just control my tongue. I love …
“Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit.” ~Apostle Paul
This is very common. I don’t think of it that way naturally but it is when you start looking below …
“It’s done . . . complete.” ~Jesus
Jesus came to complete every task God, His Father, had laid out for Him. Jesus, earlier (John 5:38) had said …
“Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” ~Jesus
The backdrop to this is the feeding of the five thousand. It is a truly stunning miracle. Jesus was moved …
“Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold.” ~Jesus
Jesus warns us in Matthew 7 where we hear Him say “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s …
“Who touched my robe?” ~Jesus
Am I thinking, if I can just touch Jesus, He will heal me? It is a good question. Sometimes I …
“This is the end–for me, the beginning of life.” ~Dietrich Bonhoeffer — Right before they hung him (April 8, 1945)
On April 8, 1945, Lutheran pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer is hanged at Flossenburg, only days before the American liberation …
“So don’t waste your time on a scoffer; all you’ll get for your pains is abuse. But if you correct those who care about life, that’s different—they’ll love you for it!” ~King Solomon
“If you reason with an arrogant cynic, you’ll get slapped in the face; confront bad behavior and get a kick in …
“Are you listening to this? Really listening?” ~Jesus
“Are you listening to this? Really listening?” When they were off by themselves, those who were close to him, along …
What is peace, how do we make peacemaking real and what is the promise of Jesus?
Jesus says “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” The commendation of peacemakers – It …
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” ~Jesus
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Enter …
“These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” ~Jesus
“When the Pharisees heard how he had bested the Sadducees, they gathered their forces for an assault. One of their …
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Κύριε Ἰησοῦ Χριστέ, Υἱέ τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐλέησόν με τὸν ἁμαρτωλόν Translated: “Master Jesus the Messiah, Son of God, have mercy …
“Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead.” ~Jesus
Jesus is clear about what it takes to follow him (i.e. be a Christian). There is no ambiguity here at …
Welcome
Welcome to Jesus Quotes and God Thoughts. You might be interested in: Teachings on the word of God Consider joy, love, peace, kindness, meekness, goodness, faithfulness, hope, self-control, justice, patience, and gentleness.
“Hold out your hand.” ~Jesus
What will Jesus do? One day Jesus went church where he found a man with a crippled hand. The religious leaders …
“As a businessperson, you have no greater leverage than the truth.” ~John Whittier
Truth is the great advantage of any business person. People are seeking after the authentic. The marketplace responds to leadership …
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” ~John Quincy Adams
Leadership is about enabling others by serving them. King Jesus, the Messiah, challenges to love everyone and lead his Kingdom …
Pope Francis’ Speech on the Poor and Indigenous Peoples
Pope Francis spoke about the problems faced by the poor and indigenous peoples at the Second World Meeting of the …
“You need to keep a sharp eye out for competent men—men who fear God, men of integrity, men who are incorruptible—and appoint them as leaders.” ~Moses
God shows us how to choose leaders. These are the best principles to apply in all cases, particularly political. Our …
“Communism doesn’t work because people like to own stuff.” ~Frank Zappa
There is one thing about capitalism. It works. There is a lot about materialism that is problematic. That doesn’t mean, …
Jesus wants purposeful leaders that deliver God’s amazing experiences
Bruce Temkin at Customer Experience Matters has done a masterful survey on what distinguishes purposeful leaders. Jesus, of course, wants purposeful …
"The greatest glory of a free-born people is to transmit that freedom to their children." ~William Havard
Why are we here? What is our purpose in life? We are to love GOD and love everyone we come …
“Why the big noise, nations? Why the mean plots, peoples? Earth-leaders push for position, demagogues and delegates meet for summit talks, the God-deniers, the Messiah-defier.” ~King David
King David understood terrorism very well. He was in battle after battle for his life and his men. He defeated …
"Beware of anything that competes with your loyalty to Jesus Christ." ~~Oswald Chambers
Loyalty to Jesus, the Messiah, has lots of competition. God doesn’t just want to be first. God wants to be …
"A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be." ~~Wayne Gretzky
Wayne nailed it with this one. To some extent, this is the essence of leadership. It is the “vision thing”. …
"If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life." ~~Jesus
It happens all the time. Someone uses us for their own advantage. We get upset. It’s just not right. We …
The Digital Ministry: The Connected Disciple wants to give it all
Over the years, many churches have developed a model to explain disciple giving, the tithe. Others have used a donor …
“All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” ~~Abraham Lincoln
Mother’s are so special in our lives. We owe our very existence to their love. The embody our hopes for …
“He that cannot obey cannot command.” ~Benjamin Franklin
Everyone focuses on “being in charge”. Leadership is the rage. Being a servant is the first order of business. If …
It is Maundy Thursday
It is Holy Thursday. Spending time today reflecting on that day and evening before the Crucifixion of our Master …
Are you ready for a new generation of Disciples?
You can tell the next generation detail by detail the story of God, Our God forever, who guides us till the end of …
Jesus Quotes and God Thoughts 