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Category: Disciple (Page 1 of 19)

Embrace Truth, Don’t Dilute It

March 18, 2025 / / 1 Comment

In a world obsessed with bite-sized content, instant gratification, and comfortable ideologies, the Church faces a crucial question: Have we traded the hard, soul-refining truth of God’s Word for something more palatable—something easier to swallow but ultimately less powerful?

It seems more and more that Christianity has been reduced, in many circles, to a moral code and a weekly gathering. Be kind. Be generous. Don’t judge. Go to church. These are all good things—but they’re not the gospel. Somewhere along the line, we’ve started watering down the wild, world-turning truth of Jesus to fit into modern attention spans and emotional comfort zones. We’ve gone from preaching repentance and transformation to offering motivational soundbites and vague spiritual encouragements.

We’ve diluted the Law to avoid offending anyone. We’ve softened the Gospel to make it more inclusive. But in doing so, have we actually robbed it of its power?

Let’s be honest: following Jesus was never meant to be easy or safe. It was never meant to be a set of manageable morals or feel-good messages. It was meant to be a complete and total surrender—a radical reordering of our lives around the way, the truth, and the life of Jesus. Look Jesus didn’t say, “Follow me when it’s convenient.” He said, “Take up your cross and follow me.” That’s not palatable—it’s costly. A cross means a willingness to die. Does that describe the Christianity you’re pursuing?

And yet, when the church begins to focus more on making truth easy to accept than empowering people to truly understand it, something gets lost. We stop discipling and start entertaining. We stop equipping and start appeasing. We give people inspirational fluff instead of deeply rooted theological formation. And the result? Shallow faith, spiritual confusion, and churches full (and that’s being generous) of people who are vaguely moral but hardly missional.

The truth is not always simple. Actually it rarely is simple! It is often messy, challenging, and deeply uncomfortable. But it is also liberating. Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). Not the abridged truth. Not the adjusted truth. The full, fierce, life-changing truth.

Truth that exposes our sin, not to shame us, but to heal us. Truth that confronts our idols and invites us into transformation. Truth that demands we not just believe in Jesus but become like Him.

If a doctor does tests to determine the cause of that lump you found but tries to soften the blow a bit by not telling you it really is cancer. Is that helping you? Does it help when we don’t call a sin a sin? No it lets us go on living as if nothing is wrong when it actually is!

So why have we traded the truth for something easier?

Maybe we fear that people will walk away if the message is too strong. Maybe we’re afraid of being labeled judgmental or outdated. Maybe we’ve bought the lie that we need to compete with culture instead of simply being the light in the midst of it.

But the early church didn’t grow because it blended in—it grew because it stood out. They lived differently. They loved boldly. They held firm to the teachings of Jesus, even when it cost them their comfort, their reputation, or even their lives. That’s what real discipleship looks like.

It’s time we reclaim that kind of faith. One that embraces truth in all its grit and glory. One that teaches people how to think deeply about God’s Word, not just what to think. One that moves beyond shallow slogans and into the depths of Scripture, Spirit, and sanctification.

The world doesn’t need another watered-down version of Christianity. It needs followers of Jesus who are so transformed by truth that their lives become a living testimony. It needs a church that doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff but leans into it—because the hard stuff is often where the healing begins. The hard stuff is where people live every single day.

Let’s stop simplifying truth to make it more palatable. Let’s start raising up disciples who can chew on meat, not just sip on milk. Let’s teach people that the gospel isn’t just about behavior modification—it’s about heart transformation.

Because in the end, it’s not about comfort. It’s about Christ.

And He’s worth every ounce of the truth.

Top 5 Ways the Church Can Actually Listen to Culture (Instead of Just Criticizing It)

March 6, 2025 / / 1 Comment

Let’s be honest—sometimes the church is better at talking than listening. We love a good sermon, a strong rebuke, or a theological mic drop. But when it comes to understanding culture, too often we respond like a grumpy old man shaking a fist at the kids on his lawn. And guess what? The kids aren’t listening. Trust me I know! That’s why I moved to the county. 😉

If we want to be relevant to both Christians and non-Christians, we have to do more than critique culture from a distance—we have to engage, understand, and listen. Here are five ways we can stop the shouting and start hearing what’s really going on.

1. Stop Reacting—Start Listening

Cultural shifts happen fast. One day, everyone’s talking about AI; the next, it’s all about deconstructing faith. Our knee-jerk reaction is often to condemn, but what if we hit pause instead? Before jumping to conclusions, take time to understand why a trend is resonating. What need is it meeting? What fear is it exposing? Jesus didn’t react in outrage—He asked questions. Maybe we should, too.

2. Find the Common Ground

Not everything in culture is anti-God. Many of today’s cultural movements—things like justice, purpose, belonging—actually point to deep biblical truths. Instead of dismissing them right out the gate, why not affirm what’s good? Paul did it in Athens (Acts 17), using Greek poetry to connect with his audience. He didn’t come onto the scene and blast them for idolatry. He explained in a loving way what they were missing. We can do the same. Instead of fighting every trend, how about trying to highlight where culture and Christianity align. Then, after you gain some respect, offer your insights on what might be missing.

3. Speak the Right Language

Imagine walking into a coffee shop and ordering a “Kung-Pao Chicken .” Everyone would be confused, right? That’s how non-Christians feel when we flood our conversations with insider church jargon. We don’t need to water down the gospel, but we do need to make it accessible. Jesus told parables; we tell people to “walk in sanctification.” One of these is easier to understand. Learn the language of the people with whom you’re speaking and use it.

4. Stop Making Everything a Battle

Not every cultural moment requires a Christian war cry. Culture isn’t the enemy—it’s a mission field. Yeah…Yeah, some ideas contradict Scripture, but that doesn’t mean we need to engage in a never-ending fight. People aren’t looking for a church that constantly yells, “You’re wrong!” They’re looking for a place that says, “Let’s talk.” Approach cultural issues with curiosity and grace, not a megaphone. The old adage “people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” is actually true. When all we do is yell and condemn, it definitely sends a message…and not a good one!

5. Actually Engage With People Outside the Church

This one’s simple but unfortunately for many it’s not easy. You can’t understand culture if you never step outside your Christian bubble. If your entire life is spent with church people, reading church books, and listening to worship music, you might miss what’s happening in the real world. Have conversations with non-Christians. Follow cultural conversations without instantly condemning them. Be present in the places where people are asking life’s big questions. Not every situation needs a full blown theological presentation. Heck, you might even learn a little something if you talk to someone who doesn’t know Jesus.

People don’t have a problem with Jesus, but they don’t always like His people.

Jesus didn’t storm into towns with a picket sign—He sat with people, listened to their stories, and responded with truth wrapped in love. If we want to be relevant in today’s culture, we need to do the same. Less outrage, more understanding. Less judgment, more grace. Because when the church truly listens, people lean in.

So, let’s get off our soapbox and into some real conversations.

Top 3 Things You Need to Know About Prayer (That Could Change Your Life)

February 26, 2025 / / 1 Comment

Prayer. For some, it’s a lifeline. For others, it feels like sending a text with no response. You know one of those questions asked of someone with read receipts on and they never reply!

Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering: Am I doing this right? Is anyone even listening? Is this thing on!? Well simply put: yes, yes, and yes. But let’s be honest—prayer can be confusing, especially when life gets messy or you feel like your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling.

There is good news however. Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated, fancy, or reserved for the “super christians.” It’s simply a conversation with God. If you want your prayer life to be less awkward and more impactful, here are three things you need to know that just might change everything.

1. God Actually Wants to Hear from You (Yeah, You)

Ok. Let’s clear something up: prayer isn’t about using the right words or sounding holy. You don’t need to bust out 17th-century King James English to get God’s attention. (“O Lord, Thou art most glorious and…” Yeah, He knows.) God wants you to come as you are—messy, honest, and real.

Think about it: if you’re a parent, you don’t require your kids to craft a formal speech before talking to you. God’s the same way. He loves hearing from you—whether you’re praising Him, venting frustrations, or just saying, “Help!” Don’t let guilt or uncertainty keep you quiet. Start talking. God’s not waiting for perfection; He’s waiting for you.

Pro tip: Not sure where to start? Try this: “God, Today I need…” Just fill in the blank with something you can’t hold in your hand (focus, peace, etc) Then wait. Simple. Honest. Powerful.

2. Prayer Is Less About Fancy Words and More About a Real Relationship

Imagine if you only talked to your best friend when you needed something. Or worse yet, if every conversation was a rushed list of demands: “Hey, I need you to fix this, do that, and make this happen. Cool? Bye.” That friendship wouldn’t last long.

Prayer is about connection, not just requests. Yeah, God wants you to bring your needs to Him, but He also wants you to share your heart. Thank Him for the good things. Be honest about your fears. Celebrate the wins. Grieve the losses. Listen for His guidance.

Relationships thrive on communication. The more you talk to God (and listen), the stronger your connection will be. And here’s the kicker: you don’t need to set aside an hour in a candlelit room of solitude. Talk to Him while driving (just don’t close your eyes please), folding laundry, or walking the dog. He’s always available—no appointment necessary.

Bonus tip: Silence isn’t God ignoring you. Sometimes He speaks in the stillness. Don’t rush it.

3. Prayer Changes Things… and It Changes You

We often think of prayer as a way to get God to act. And yes, prayer moves the heart of God. Miracles happen. Peace arrives. Circumstances shift. But sometimes, the biggest change happens in us.

Prayer can soften a hard heart, calm anxious thoughts, and bring clarity when you’re stuck. Even when God doesn’t answer the way you hoped, He often gives you strength to face the situation. And that’s no small thing.

And let’s be honest: sometimes the answer is “yes,” but sometimes it’s “I have something better in mind.” Trusting God’s timing isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Keep praying. Even when it feels like nothing’s happening, God is working, sometimes behind the scenes in ways you can’t see.

Encouragement: Don’t quit praying just because you haven’t seen immediate results. Some of the best answers come after the longest waits.

Prayer isn’t about checking a Jesus box. It’s about relationship. It’s about bringing your whole, messy, beautiful self to God and trusting that He hears you, loves you, and responds in His perfect way (and time).

So, talk to Him. Be honest. Be persistent. Be yourself. You don’t need a script. You just need a willing heart.

And remember: you’re not alone. At Living Word Galena, we believe prayer is foundational to life and faith. If you need someone to pray with you, reach out. We’re here for you. God is, too.

Your prayers matter. You matter. Don’t let doubt or busyness rob you of the life-changing gift of prayer. Start the conversation. You might just be surprised at what happens next.

Is That An Idol In Your Pocket?

February 19, 2025 / / 1 Comment

Honesty moment—what’s the first thing you reach for in the morning? Is it your Bible or your phone?

For most people, it’s not even a question. The phone wins. Emails, texts, social media, news updates—it all floods in before our feet even hit the floor. And whether we admit it or not, that little device isn’t just a tool; it’s become our most dominant teacher.

Who’s or What’s Really Discipling You?

Discipleship is about shaping your thoughts, priorities, and habits. It’s about what you allow to guide you, correct you, and influence your decisions. So a simple equation that I like to use. Time equals devotion and if time equals devotion, then for many Jesus Followers, TikTok is their pastor, Instagram is their small group, and Google is their theologian.

We have more access to God’s Word than any generation before us. Sermons are a click away. Bible apps are everywhere. But instead of feeding on Scripture, we binge content that disciples us in distraction, outrage, comparison, and self-indulgence.

Jesus calls us to take up our cross daily (Luke 9:23), but for too many of us, the only thing we pick up daily is our phone.

Your Phone Is Winning the Battle for Your Mind

Paul tells us in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The problem? Our phones are shaping our minds way more than the Word of God.

Think about it:

  • Social media tells you what to care about. If it’s trending, it must be important, right? But how often do trending topics align with the things of God?
  • Algorithms decide what you see. Every scroll, every click, every “like” trains your feed to shape your worldview.
  • Your attention span is being rewired. If content doesn’t hook you in three seconds, you move on. No wonder it’s hard to focus on prayer or Scripture.

This has become far more than a bad habit. It’s spiritual warfare. The enemy doesn’t need to drag you into deep sin—he just needs to keep you distracted enough that you never grow. And the enemy is not the person who sees the world differently than you do! The enemy is the one who doesn’t want you to thrive in every area of life.

Are You Using Your Phone, or Is It Using You?

We love to say, “Phones aren’t bad, it’s just how you use them.” That’s true—to a point. But let’s not kid ourselves. Most of us aren’t using our phones to memorize Scripture and evangelize. We’re wasting hours on empty entertainment, comparing our lives to filtered versions of other people that we don’t even know! Not to mention numbing ourselves with constant noise.

Conviction moment…

  • Do you check your phone more than you pray?
  • Do you read notifications more than Scripture?
  • Do you mindlessly scroll when you could be sitting in silence with God?
  • Do you get more anxious when your phone dies than when you left the Bible on the chair at church?

If your phone gets more devotion than Jesus, it’s time for a change.

Reclaim Your Discipleship

You don’t have to throw your phone in the ocean (even though some of us might need to). But you do need to take control before it takes control of you.

Here are a few places to start:

  1. Bookend Your Day with God. Keep your phone away from your bed. Start and end your day in Scripture and prayer—before any screen. Don’t overthink this one. Tell Jesus about your day. Ask him about the day in front of you. That’s it! No fancy words. No canned jargon. Just you and Jesus and sharing what’s on your mind.
  2. Fast from the Feed. Take breaks from social media. Maybe one day a week. Maybe a whole month. Watch how your mind clears. If that makes you twitch a little, then consider setting aside no notification times. I often use the Do Not Disturb function on my phone. No emails, texts, social notifications come through at all! Ok there are a few who get emergency rights but those are very limited!
  3. Don’t Remove, Replace. If you cut out screen time but don’t replace it with time in the Word, prayer, or actual connection with other humans, you’ll just fill the gap with something else empty. It’s far too easy to fall back into bad habits if we don’t replace those with something good. Not eating donuts won’t be of much benefit if we don’t replace that with some good, healthy sources of protein.
  4. Ask: Who’s Forming Me? Before you open an app, ask, Is this helping me become more like Jesus? If the answer is no, maybe it’s time to rethink your habits. Now this one about made some of you throw your device against the wall. This doesn’t mean that all tech is bad. Hey I’m writing this on my laptop using the internet! Just set specific times when you can aimlessly graze on stuff. If it’s not in your grazing time, then fill yourself with something beneficial and filling.

It’s Time to Choose Your Master

Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24). Right now, many of us are trying to serve both Jesus and our phones—and let’s be real, our phones are winning.

But they don’t have to.

You can take control. You can change your habits. You can choose to let Jesus, not a screen, shape your heart, mind, and soul.

So the question is—who’s discipling you? Jesus? Or the idol in your pocket?

Evangelism: The Heart of Discipleship

January 23, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Evangelism is not a program, a ministry, or an optional add-on to our Christian walk. It’s not reserved for the extroverts, the theologians, or the church staff. Evangelism is an integral part of discipleship—it’s the outflow of a life transformed by Jesus. When we understand this, evangelism moves from being something we “do” to being a natural part of who we are as followers of Jesus.

At its core, evangelism isn’t about delivering a perfect presentation or debating theology. It’s about relationships. Jesus didn’t hand out flyers or host seminars. He sat at tables, walked along dusty roads, and entered into the messiness of people’s lives. He listened, loved, and shared the truth of God’s kingdom in ways that were personal and relational.

We can follow His model through a simple yet powerful three-story approach to evangelism: Their Story, Your Story, God’s Story.

1. First Story Is Their Story

Stories are so important! They are memorable and often filled with deep meaning. Every person you meet carries a story—filled with joys, struggles, dreams, and questions. Before we speak, we need to listen. When we genuinely care about someone’s story, we reflect the love of Jesus.

Ask questions. Get to know what makes them tick. What are they passionate about? What challenges are they facing? What’s their story of faith—or lack of it? This isn’t a manipulative tactic; it’s an act of love. People are longing to be heard and understood.

Starting with their story builds trust. It shows that we value them as people, not as projects. And it often opens the door for deeper conversations about meaning, purpose, and hope.

2. Share Your Own Story

Once we’ve listened, we can share. But not in a way that preaches or overwhelms. Share your story. What difference has Jesus made in your life? How has His grace carried you through your own challenges?

Your story doesn’t have to be dramatic. In fact, the quieter moments of faith—the peace in a storm, the joy in the mundane—often resonate the most. Keep it real. Be vulnerable. Let them see how Jesus meets you in your humanity.

When we share our stories honestly, we bridge the gap between their struggles and God’s hope. We show them that faith isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being redeemed.

3. Connect Their Story to God’s Story

Finally, connect the dots. This is where we help people see how their story fits into the greater story of God’s love.

God’s story is one of redemption, grace, and purpose. It’s the story of a Savior who left heaven to rescue us. A story of a God who turns brokenness into beauty and offers eternal hope to all who believe.

Help them see how God’s story speaks into their struggles and longings. If they’re feeling lost, point them to the Good Shepherd who leads and guides. If they’re overwhelmed, share the peace that passes understanding. If they’re searching for purpose, invite them to discover the God who created them with intention and love.

This step isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about pointing them to Jesus and trusting the Holy Spirit to do the rest.

Evangelism in Everyday Life

This three-story approach—Their Story, Your Story, God’s Story—isn’t a formula to follow; it’s a rhythm for life. Evangelism works best when it’s organic, relational, and rooted in love. When we make this rhythm part of our daily rhythm, people’s lives (including our own) will be transformed by the greatest story ever lived.

As disciples of Jesus, we’re called to make more disciples in the going moments of life. This isn’t just a command; it’s an invitation to join God in His redemptive work. So, listen deeply, share authentically, and connect boldly.

Evangelism isn’t an event, a ministry or a program. It’s simply walking with others toward Jesus—one story at a time.

Jesus Should Not Be First

January 13, 2025 / / 1 Comment

Jesus does not want to be first in your life. That might sound shocking, but it’s the truth. Jesus doesn’t ask for first place—He demands the only place. Why? Because He’s not interested in being a slice of your life’s pie chart. He’s not satisfied with being another line item on your endless to-do list. He’s not here to share space with your career, hobbies, relationships, or even your family.

The first commandment makes it painfully clear:
“You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3)

The Hebrew here is intense. “Before me” literally means “in My face.” God’s saying, “Don’t you dare put anything in My face that tries to compete with Me.” He’s not interested in your priorities; He’s claiming everything.

Here’s the harsh reality: we’ve turned our lives into idol factories. We’re constantly elevating good things—family, work, fitness, finances—into god things. And we love to rank them:

  1. God
  2. Family
  3. Career
  4. Hobbies

That’s a nice, neat little list isn’t it? It feels spiritual. It feels balanced. But it’s a lie. If Jesus is just a “first among equals,” you’ve completely missed the point. He’s not “first.” He’s everything.

Let me say it another way: If Jesus isn’t your everything, He’s nothing. He doesn’t share the throne. He’s not a consultant for your life plan. He’s the King who demands full allegiance.

The Danger of “First”

When we say Jesus is “first,” what we really mean is, “I’ll give Him a little time, energy, and attention, but I’ve got other stuff to do.” We check the box by going to church, reading a quick devotional, or tossing a few bucks into the offering plate. Then we get back to building our own kingdoms.

But Jesus doesn’t want a piece of your life—He wants the whole thing. That’s why He said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

Deny yourself. Not rearrange your priorities. Not carve out a little Jesus time. Not give Him first dibs. Deny yourself. That means your dreams, your goals, your plans, and yes, even your family, take a back seat to Him.

“No Other Gods” Means NO Other Gods

If we’re being honest, we all have gods in our lives. Some are obvious, like money, success, or relationships. Others are sneakier, like control, comfort, or even religion and tradition. And every single one of them is a direct violation of this first commandment. God doesn’t want your idols managed—He wants them destroyed.

Jesus says it this way. “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.” (Matthew 6:24)

There’s no middle ground. You can’t serve Jesus and your career. You can’t serve Jesus and your ego. You can’t serve Jesus and your comfort. You can’t serve Jesus and your tradition. It’s Him or nothing.

So what does it look like to live with Jesus as the only? It’s simple, but it’s not easy:

  • Surrender daily. Start each day by laying your plans, desires, and ambitions at His feet. One way to do this is through prayer. Just start your day with Lord today I need… Then fill in the blank and let God take it from there. Only caveat is that blank has to be something you cannot touch, so no Porsche or Lambo friends!
  • Hold everything loosely. Your family, career, possessions, and even traditions are gifts from God, not gods themselves. Treat them accordingly. When these things help you serve God, they are good things. When they distract you from God, they are god things.
  • Obey without excuses. Stop bargaining with Jesus. When He calls, answer. When He commands, act. No more excuses. It’s time for full on devotion.

Living this way will wreck your life—in the best way possible. It will strip away the false gods you’ve been clinging to and replace them with the only One worth worshiping.

Ok, so here’s the bottom line. Jesus doesn’t want to be first in your life. He wants to be the only. The first commandment isn’t a suggestion; it’s a declaration of war! War against every competing affection in your heart.

So stop ranking Him. Stop fitting Him into your schedule. Stop treating Him like a task to check off. Tear down the idols, clear the stage, and let Him reign as the one true King.

Because if Jesus isn’t the only, He isn’t anything.

Stop Non-Viting and Start Inviting

January 10, 2025 / / 0 Comments

The need for evangelism in churches has never been greater. People are desperate for hope, searching for meaning, and drowning in the chaos of life. The church has the answer: Jesus. Yet, too often, we fumble the ball when it comes to the most crucial part—inviting people into the life-changing power of the Gospel.

Too many believers think they’re doing evangelism when they say, “You should come sometime.” That’s not evangelism. That’s not even inviting. It’s non-viting.

Non-Vitation: The Lazy Evangelism Killer

Non-vitation is the ultimate cop-out. It sounds good in the moment, but it’s vague, noncommittal, and accomplishes nothing. You know the line, maybe you’ve even used it:

  • “You should come to my church sometime.”
  • “We’ve got great messages; you’d like them.”
  • “Yeah, my church is doing some cool stuff. You should check it out.”

The problem? There’s no invitation! No date, no time, no event, no urgency. You might as well be inviting them to the grand opening of a coffee shop that doesn’t exist.

Non-vitation is why people nod politely and then never show up. It’s why churches see empty pews and declining attendance. It’s why the Gospel is sitting on the sidelines while the world spirals out of control.

Invitation: The Evangelism Game-Changer

It’s time to ditch non-vitation and embrace invitation. Invitation is specific, personal, and compelling. It’s not “you should come sometime.” It’s “Hey, I’d love for you to join me this Sunday at 10:30. We’re talking about hope in hard times, and I think it could really encourage you.”

But invitation doesn’t stop there. It’s not just about getting them in the door. It’s about being there for them when they show up and investing in the relationship. If you invite someone to church, make sure you’re available to meet them at the entrance. Sit with them. Explain what’s happening in the service. And when it’s over, join them for lunch. That’s how relationships are built. That’s how the Gospel becomes real to someone.

I mean look – Jesus didn’t say, “Hey, you should come check out the kingdom of God sometime.” He said, “Come, follow me.” His invitations were personal and direct. They required a response. And guess what? People followed.

Why Evangelism Matters Now More Than Ever

The need for evangelism in churches has never been more urgent. Our world is fractured. Families are struggling. Anxiety, depression, and hopelessness are at an all-time high. The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.

Evangelism isn’t just a “nice idea” or a box to check on your Christian to-do list. It’s the heartbeat of the church. Without it, we’re just a holy huddle, a club for the already-convinced.

People need Jesus, and they need you to invite them to meet Him. That’s not someone else’s job. It’s yours. If you’re waiting for a sign, this is it.

Three Steps to Stop Non-Viting and Start Inviting

  1. Be Specific:
    Stop being vague. Name a date, a time, and a place. “Come to Easter service at 9 AM,” or “Join me for our family movie night this Friday.” Make it easy for people to say yes.
  2. Be Personal:
    People don’t just want generic flyers or mass emails. They want you. A personal invitation from someone they know and trust is 10 times more powerful than any social media post or billboard.
  3. Be Relational:
    Don’t stop at the invite. Free up your schedule to be there when they arrive. Sit with them. Answer their questions. Take them to lunch afterward and build the relationship. Evangelism isn’t just about attendance; it’s about connection.

Every non-vitation is a missed opportunity. Every vague, half-hearted “you should come sometime” leaves someone stuck in their pain and searching for answers. That’s the cost of non-vitation.

But the reward of invitation? Lives changed. Hearts healed. Families restored. That’s what happens when you step up and say, “Come and see.”

Let’s Get Serious

Friends, we can’t afford to sit back and hope people wander in. We can’t rely on programs, social media ads, or the “cool factor” to do the work for us. Evangelism is our job. Discipleship isn’t discipleship without inviting others into the journey.

So stop non-viting. Start inviting. Be specific. Be personal. Be relational. The world is waiting, and Jesus is ready to change lives.

What are you waiting for? Make the invitation today.

Big Life, Small Worries

December 10, 2024 / / 0 Comments

I’ve never really shied away from a hard truth, so here’s one for today. If you’re constantly weighed down by petty drama, meaningless debates, and other people’s chaos, it’s not because life is hard—it’s because your life is too small.

When you’re living small, every little thing feels like a crisis. Someone looked at you funny? You stew over it for days. A co-worker got credit for your idea? You’re ready to quit. A friend didn’t text back? Obviously, it’s the end of the relationship. Someone is busy and misses a meeting that you feel is important? You go WWIII on them.

But the problem isn’t them. It’s you. Or more specifically, the scope of your life.

It’s like this. When you’re focused on building something bigger—living for a purpose, chasing a mission, or pouring yourself out for something that matters—you don’t have time for small worries. Your energy is spent on creating, growing, and changing the world around you.

You can’t live a big life while sweating over small stuff. That math doesn’t math.

The Curse of the Small Life

Small living is self-centered living. Don’t take this the wrong way, but if your world revolves around you—your preferences, your image, your comfort—then every little inconvenience feels like a personal attack. Why? Because small people make themselves the center of the universe.

That’s exhausting. And honestly? It’s unbiblical.

Proverbs 19:11 says, “Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.” When your life is big—when you’re focused on God’s purpose and others’ needs—offenses lose their sting. You don’t get rattled by someone cutting you off in traffic or throwing shade on social media because your eyes are fixed on something (or someone) bigger.

But if your world is small, every offense feels monumental. You’re a ship tossed by every wave. You’re fragile. And let’s be real: Nobody wants to live like that.

Get Over Yourself and Get to Work

Living a big life starts with letting go of the need to be right, admired, or even comfortable. It’s not about you. It never was.

Jesus said in Matthew 16:24, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” That’s big living. It’s gritty, uncomfortable, and requires sacrifice. But it’s also the most fulfilling way to live.

Want a big life? Start focusing on what God has called you to do. How about try feeding the hungry. Mentoring a young person. Or just love your neighbor (even the obnoxious ones). Intentionally invest in your family. Step into your church. Go after that dream God planted in your heart.

When you’re busy doing big things, the little things don’t have room to take root. You’ll stop sweating over someone’s tone in an email because you’re too busy planning that next ministry, mission trip, or career step.

Big lives are marked by action, not reaction.

Here’s another punch to the gut: If you’re waiting for life to be perfect before you live big, you’re going to wait forever. The enemy of a big life isn’t failure—it’s fear. Fear of making mistakes, fear of looking stupid, fear of getting hurt.

Newsflash Princess! You’re going to fail. You’ll mess up. People will hurt you. So what?

Living big is messy, but it’s better than the alternative: wasting your life worrying about what doesn’t matter – or meddling in other people’s business!

Start now. Step out. Don’t let the size of your life be dictated by your fears.

The Payoff

When you live big, your worries shrink. Why? Because your perspective changes. You’re not bogged down by trivial things when you’re laser-focused on eternal things.

You’ll notice that small people criticize while big people create. Small people complain while big people serve. Small people cling to their comfort zones while big people break barriers and shatter ceilings.

The choice is yours: Big life, small worries—or small life, big drama.

Jesus didn’t come so you could survive in the shallow end. He came to give you life to the full (see John 10). A big life. A God-sized life. A life that drowns out small worries because it’s consumed with a mission that matters.

So, what’s it going to be? Stay small, or step into something big?

The American Church Needs a New Reformation

December 4, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Something is wrong with the American church.

Just look around. Our pews are emptying, not filling. Our younger generations are leaving, not staying. In a world desperate for truth, love, and purpose, we’re offering shallow programs, culture wars, and clichés. We preach grace but practice judgment. We sing about God’s power while hoarding human control. The gap between the Jesus of the Bible and the Christianity we practice has grown so wide it threatens to swallow us whole.

We need a new Reformation.

The original Reformation in the early 1500s, led by Martin Luther and several others, exposed how far the church had strayed from the gospel. At its core the Reformation was a cry to return to Scripture and reclaim God’s authority. They dealt with issues of indulgences (selling of forgiveness) and excessive emphasis on paying for salvation with good deeds and with money.

Today, the issue isn’t selling indulgences; it’s peddling irrelevance. We’ve exchanged the radical call of Jesus to love God and neighbor for cheap entertainment, partisan politics, and a consumer mindset.

We’ve turned church into a product—marketed, polished, and packaged to please the masses. And when people inevitably see through the facade, they leave. Some leave the faith altogether. Others leave for churches that embrace authenticity, however messy it may be.

The Weight of Our Failure

This is where the pain sets in. We’re not just losing attendees; we’re losing credibility. The broader culture sees the church as judgmental, hypocritical, and frankly out of touch. How can we blame them? We preach about the sanctity of life while ignoring the cries of the marginalized. We talk about Jesus’ love but fail to embody that love in our own homes, neighborhoods, and communities.

It’s easy to point fingers at the culture for abandoning Christian values. But maybe the culture didn’t abandon us. Maybe we abandoned the Jesus they need to see.

This is bigger than declining numbers or shrinking influence. It’s about souls. People are walking away from the hope of Jesus because they don’t see it in us.

The good news? Reformation isn’t about destruction; it’s about renewal. The first Reformation didn’t burn the church to the ground. It called it back to its foundation. Today’s Reformation must do the exact same thing.

We don’t need better branding. We need deeper discipleship. We don’t need bigger buildings. We need communities that feel like family. And we certainly don’t need more culture wars. We need to take up the only war Jesus called us to fight: against sin, darkness, and injustice.

This new Reformation must start with humility. The American church doesn’t need a PR strategy; it needs repentance. Let’s confess where we’ve put comfort over calling, self-righteousness over servanthood, and fear over faith.

The church also needs courage. The truth is, a reformed church won’t make everyone happy. But our goal isn’t to please people; it’s to glorify God. Let’s have the guts to challenge the idols we’ve built in His name—idols of politics, tradition, and power.

A reformed church could be a breathtaking force for good. Imagine churches known for their generosity, not their greed. Imagine Christians famous for their kindness, not their outrage. Imagine communities transformed because the love of Jesus shines so brightly that people can’t help but be drawn to it.

We’ve seen glimpses of this throughout history. The early church grew because it loved so radically that outsiders said, “See how they love one another!” The Wesleyan revival in England led to societal reforms that changed the nation. The Jesus Movement of the 70s brought countless young people to faith.

God isn’t done with His church. But He’s waiting for us to stop clinging to the past and start embracing His future.

The new Reformation won’t come from church growth seminars or celebrity pastors. It will come from ordinary Christians rediscovering what it means to follow Jesus. It will come from pastors bold enough to preach the gospel and lead with integrity. It will come when we stop playing church and start being the church.

Let’s not wait for someone else to start it. Revival begins in hearts, homes, and local congregations like yours and mine. Let’s pray for it. Let’s work for it. Let’s believe for it.

The world doesn’t need more American Christianity. It needs more Jesus. Are we ready to give it to them?

Make Faith Real Again

November 26, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Faith isn’t something you learn at church or in Sunday School; it’s something you live. Too often, Christians settle for reading, hearing, and seeing when God has called us to actually live out in our day to day lives.

Have you ever heard the statistics about what you remember? You remember 10% of what you read, 20% of what you hear, 30% of what you see, 50% of what you see and hear, but 70% of what you experience is remembered. If we want a faith that sticks—one that changes lives, including our own—we must move from passive absorption to active engagement.

Faith That Doesn’t Move Isn’t Faith

James 2:17 couldn’t be more clear. “Faith without works is dead.” Yet so many of us are stuck in the comfortable rhythms of church life: attending a service, hearing a sermon, maybe cracking open the Bible during the week. It’s good, but it’s not enough. Why? Because faith isn’t just about knowing; it’s about doing.

Think about it: Jesus didn’t sit His disciples down for weekly lectures and send them off with a pat on the back. He took them on a journey. He showed them how to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and love the outcast. Then He sent them out to do it themselves.

You can memorize every verse on love, but until you sit down with someone who’s hurting and listen, it’s just head knowledge. You can attend every Bible study on evangelism, but until you open your mouth to share the gospel with a neighbor, you haven’t truly learned it. Faith grows in the doing.

It’s no accident that we remember 70% of what we experience. God wired us this way because faith was never meant to be a spectator sport. It’s hands-on. Even Jesus was to “Follow me,” not “Listen to me.” Following requires movement.

Here’s the truth: if your faith feels stagnant, it’s because you’re not stepping into the experience of it. Reading about God’s love is one thing, but serving at a soup kitchen or mentoring a struggling teenager brings that love to life. Hearing a sermon about forgiveness is valuable, but going to someone who’s wronged you and saying, “I forgive you” burns it into your own heart the way nothing else can.

Christianity isn’t a weekly TED Talk; it’s a lifestyle. Every act of service, every step of obedience, every leap of faith engrains God’s truths deeper into your soul.

This isn’t just about retention rates—it’s about transformation. When you put your faith into action, it doesn’t just stick with you—it impacts the world around you.

  • Read about God’s call to feed the hungry, but then go and pack lunches for the homeless.
  • Hear a sermon on loving your enemies, then invite someone you’ve been avoiding out for coffee.
  • See a video about the power of prayer, but then get on your knees and cry out to God for someone in need.

You’ll be amazed at how much more these truths resonate when they’re tied to an experience. It’s not about “earning” your faith; it’s about letting your actions solidify what God is teaching you.

A little challenge for you this week – stop sitting in the pew and start stepping into the world. Don’t just hear the Word—do something with it. If we want our faith to stick, we’ve got to get our hands dirty.

This week, pick one area where you can shift from hearing to experiencing. Serve, give, forgive, pray, or take a step into the unknown. Whatever it is, make it tangible.

Faith that sits still fades quickly. Faith that moves grows roots. Let’s be Christians who don’t just listen to the call of Jesus but answer it with bold, undeniable action.

You remember 70% of what you experience—so start living a faith you’ll never forget.

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