Using my time wisely means more to me than ever before. I’m realizing with greater intensity that I have just one life, and I want it to count for Christ. I’m never at a loss for how to fill my time, but I’m constantly choosing between good things and the best things.

One of the projects to which I’m delighted to devote my time is our annual Spiritual Leadership Conference. This is not just one more activity to fill a calendar; it is a highlight event designed to equip each person who attends to greater potential for service to the Lord. For our church, this conference is not one of many options on a calendar; I believe it is a “must have.” Following are 10 reasons why I believe we need Spiritual Leadership Conference: (more…)

A passion for souls must be the norm for every biblical pastor, spiritual leader, and local church. It should be the focus of our entire life and ministry. Christ’s last command emphasized His priority for the church: “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Matthew 28:18–20).

Staying focused on souls takes predetermined commitment. It takes constant attention. Satan will try to divert you, overburden you, and fill your time with other good things. He will try to distract your church in other matters. He will try to make you turn inward. You must constantly fight a natural drift away from soulwinning. (more…)

The last few weeks have been memorable and enjoyable as our family was able to take a few weeks vacation together. Most of our trip was centered around visiting with family and extended family in Colorado. The chief attraction of this vacation for me was my grandson Camden! (Click here to see a few more vacation photos.)

Having Camden with us reminded me of how quickly time flies. It seems just yesterday that our own children were his age. It was a joy these past couple of weeks to have all four of our children and their spouses with us. I can wholeheartedly echo the words of Proverbs 23:24: “The father of the righteous shall greatly rejoice: and he that begetteth a wise child shall have joy of him.”

Terrie and I thank the Lord for each of our children, and we rejoice in their hearts for the Lord. Our three oldest children who are married are serving the Lord in the ministry. Our youngest son Matthew is preparing to be married this August. He and Katie look forward to serving in ministry together.

I don’t regret any time I’ve invested in my children, and I cherish every moment I’ve been able to spend with my wife. My family is a great treasure from the Lord, and I’m so thankful for every moment I’ve shared with each of them.

I’m thankful to announce the completion of a new book—Understanding the Times: Living Courageously in Prophetic Days. The outgrowth of hundreds of hours of study, and many hours of labor from our publications staff, Understanding the Times explores Bible prophecy in reference to current events. It will be a helpful tool for every pastor and an encouraging resource for every Christian.

Biblical prophecy provides far more than information; it should motivate us to live with eternity in view and to intensify our witness for Christ. In addition to giving clarity on future events, this book will encourage every reader to a greater trust in the Lord.

Chapter titles include:

1. The Basics of Bible Prophecy
2. World Empires Old and New
3. The Focus on Israel
4. A Sudden Disappearance
5. A World in Terror
6. The One-World Ruler
7. The False Church or the True Saviour?
8. The Seven Years of Judgment
9. The Second Coming of Christ
10. The One Eternal Kingdom
11. Challenges in Light of His Coming

Understanding the Times is published by Striving Together Publications and will be available July 11. You can pre-order your copy today at strivingtogether.com.

Most mature Christians know 2 Timothy 2:2 by heart: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” We recognize the importance of training and mentoring young Christians, and we desire to develop a new generation of leaders in fruitful ministry.

Yet sometimes we miss profitable discipleship and mentoring because we don’t have a clear objective in mind. Leadership training isn’t merely about spending time together; it is about using that time intentionally. Every mentoring moment is a teaching moment; and as the mentor, you must predetermine how you will use each moment. What must you teach future leaders? Here are the basics: (more…)