Proverbs 22
11 He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the king for his friend.
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Throughout the Scriptures, the characteristics of having a pure heart and gracious speech is important to our King. Possessing these qualities will open the doors of leaders hearts and will grant us friendship and favor [...]

As I was running midday, the heat scorching, the pavement on fire, each stride felt like my muscles were deteriorating. I was only on my 3rd mile, but the hills seem to be winning over my resistance.
As other times when I’ve felt this way, I told myself, “This is a mind game! I’m [...]

All sin stained, imperfect people like me, deal with internal conflict. This can take on features such as dealing with worldly attitudes, greed, jealousy, pride, lusts, etc. Or it can surface through relational strife as a result of bitterness, unresolved tensions and unforgiveness.

Don’t let internal conflicts [IC] go unattended.
Identify the IC
Confront the IC
Repent [...]

Discerning hearts involved in situations where lying, deception, calloused hearts, self centeredness in relationships exists, can be very difficult. When someone feels embittered, offended and lacking trust in another, the ministry of reconciliation can be tiresome and downright hard!
This is where Paul’s note to Titus reveals wisdom to our hearts to handle relationships wisely.
Titus [...]

Dealing with the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical effects of “heaviness” can be very tiring and draining. Life’s circumstances, health issues, relationship problems, insecurities, selfish motives gone unchecked, financial burdens and worries - the list can be overwhelming - A HEAVINESS that sucks the life out of you!
Psa. 69:20         Reproach has broken my [...]

Croft M. Pentz
If you put heart into what you do, it will put heart into you.
I love this quote!
This reminds me of what Pastor Wayne says: Add heart into what you do!
When we mix heart of Jesus into the ingredients of work, service, family, ministry…life, then God will allow us to reap the fruit [...]

When leaders buckle in conviction and compromise the way they live, there’s a venomous life-sucking vampire that deadens the conscience to truth. Contrary to integrity, the vampire of deception steals, kills and destroys lives and relationships.
Psalm 119
1         Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD.
2         Joyful are those who obey [...]

1 Corinthians 15
58Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
ahhhhh - one of my favorite verses. Because of the “therefore” - we are able to live fully, give fully [...]

Timeouts in athletic games are mainly used for coaches to direct his team. Certain players on a team are given permission by their coaches to call timeouts at certain points of a game.
I’m calling a “leadership timeout” as a player/coach.
Huddle up, listen closely!
There are marriages in trouble. We’ve got to adjust our game [...]

Compliments and applause run rampant at our church. Yes, it’s a great thing! The body of Christ encouraging, complimenting, applauding each others efforts, gifts, talents, sacrifice and hard work for God builds the heart and soul.
Until, the lack of genuineness and a feeling of being taken advantage of seems to cloud sincerity. [...]