There’s a long list of things I didn’t learn in seminary. And to be honest, there’s a long list of things I did learn but can’t remember. I’m incredibly grateful for the theological foundation provided by my Masters of Divinity and Doctorate of Ministry. But as I continue to pastor, I notice a greater need for leadership and strategy that must build upon that theological foundation. Both are necessary. Both are essential. Both are important.I don’t believe in the false dichotomy many say exists. Theology and strategy are friends, not enemies. The Bible and leadership go hand in hand. All truth is God’s truth. So, I want to be the best theologian I can be. And I want to be the best leader I can be. That means I’m a constant student – of theology and strategy.

With that in mind, here’s one thing I didn’t learn in seminary. How do you form a church strategy? How do think strategically, systematically, and methodically as a pastor? Here are four steps that will get you started in the right direction.  Continue reading →

I still consider myself a “new” pastor. I’ve been serving my current church for right at a year now. Which means I’m still learning. A lot. All the time. I took about a year to study my surroundings. I’m amazed by pastors who come in and immediately know exactly what do do, how to do it, and when to do it. I need more time than that. I guess I’m just not as smart as those pastors. I need to take my time. Observe. Learn.

But, after a year of observation, here are a few things the Lord laid on my heart for our church. Some things we need to think about. Some areas we need to concentrate on. So, here are seven areas of focus for 2013. Continue reading →

Anytime a church begins to move forward and take ground for the kingdom, the enemy will do everything he can to impede progress. He does so by getting us off track. By tempting us to focus on minor issues instead of our mission. There are great dangers that we face. We need to be aware of these dangers so we can avoid them.

Continue reading →

I’m an avid blog reader, podcast listener, and Evernote user. I’m always looking for ways to stretch, learn, and grow. And I like to take advantage of that natural times of the year that bring reflection and contemplation – like the New Year.

So, I want to share with you a few things from other sources that have really challenged and encouraged me recently. And I’m not sure I can do everything in each of these other posts, but at least I can do some things. And if I don’t try at all, I’m pretty sure very little of this will happen. Continue reading →

Everyone has some new things they want to do in the New Year. Even if you don’t like “resolutions” this time of the year naturally causes you to stop and think. What did you accomplish in the last 365 days? What do you want to accomplish in the next 365 days?

Goals are important. Set goals so you know whether you’re making progress. Aim at nothing and you will hit it every time. It’s important to plan and to think about the future.

But today, to put a small twist on the New Year resolution theme, let’s talk about three things you should stop doing. What are some things that you do now that you shouldn’t do this year? Ever thought about that? Continue reading →