Author Archives: jimperdue

Take Time to Clear Your Mind

Posted on by

Our world is full of clutter. And it doesn’t take long for all of the clutter around us to become the clutter within us. That’s why it’s important that you find things that clear your mind. Things that recharge your batteries.

One of the things that works for me is what I call “tractor time.” Every other week or so during the summer I get to spend a few hours on the tractor cutting grass. It may sound like torture to you. But to me it is sweet relief.

That’s what we all need from time to time. You need it too. Clear your mind, disengage, just chill. Here are four quick guidelines for clearing your mind.

1. It must be enjoyable.
2. It must be relaxing.
3. It must recharge your batteries. 
4. It must make you feel better.

For you, it may not be time on the tractor cutting grass. It may be a game of golf, an afternoon fishing, an early morning in the deer stand, or a day at the mall. But from time to time, it’s important that that you take time to clear your mind.

Counterfeit Courage

Posted on by

Have you ever noticed how people will say things on the internet or in an email that they would never say to your face? Before I continue, let me make a point. I’m not replying to anybody on my blog. I’m not getting back at anyone. I’m not responding to a problem (that would be ironic wouldn’t it). I’m just making an observation. People say things on Twitter and Facebook, in blogs and emails, that they would never say to your face.

Jesus says in Matthew 5:37, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” In other words, be a man or woman of your word. Don’t say things about someone online that you wouldn’t say to their face. Here are two questions to ask so you can avoid counterfeit courage.  Continue reading →

Four Ways to Deal With Criticism

Posted on by

No one likes to be criticized. But if you’re a leader, it comes with the territory. Be a big boy, accept it and learn how to handle it. Some guys try to avoid criticism by cowering in the corner. They hesitate. They vacillate. They never make a decision. Guess what? They’re still criticized for being spineless leaders. That’s not the route to take.

For me it’s important to accept reality. If you’re a leader, you will face criticism. Sometimes criticism is justified, sometimes it’s not. Either way, you need to learn how to deal with it. Here are four simple ways to deal with criticism. Continue reading →

How to Grow as a Leader

Posted on by

I don’t want to anger any of my seminary professors or cerebral friends so I’ll go ahead and say it. I’m not minimizing doctrine and theology. Please don’t think that’s the case. Proper doctrine and effective leadership are friends, not enemies. You need proper doctrine and a good method to deliver that doctrine. So, a big part of pastoring is leading. Isn’t that what a shepherd is supposed to do?

While this list is nowhere close to exhaustive, here are six ways to grow as a pastor and a leader. Continue reading →