I’m a naturally open and direct person. I value honesty, clarity, and quickly getting to the heart of things. But I’ve learned that not everyone interacts that way—and that my directness can sometimes feel overwhelming or abrupt to people who are wired differently. God has been teaching me to slow down, listen first, and adjustContinue reading “Wise Openness: Sharing Honestly Without Oversharing”
Category Archives: Personal Growth
From Anxiety to Openness: Asking for Meetings that Build Trust
The way we ask for meetings matters to you and those you meet. Making a few adjustments in how you ask for a meeting or ask for clarification can help maintain respect and earn trust. We’ve all sent that vague text, “Hey, can we meet?” Sometimes those on the receiving end can have a panic attack, question theirContinue reading “From Anxiety to Openness: Asking for Meetings that Build Trust”
When Boundaries Become Unbiblical
Boundaries, at their best, are a biblical tool for managing our hearts, relationships, and responsibilities. They help define where we end and others begin. As Henry Cloud writes in his book Boundaries, “Boundaries define us. They define what is me and what is not me.” Scripture affirms the value of wise limits: These verses highlightContinue reading “When Boundaries Become Unbiblical”
McDonald’s and Disciple Making: A Simple, Effective Strategy for Meeting
3-minute read For many of us, McDonald’s is just a fast-food restaurant, but it can also be a strategic meeting place for disciple-makers. I’ve found that gathering at McDonald’s for coffee provides a consistent, low-cost, and accessible setting for disciple-making. Here’s why—and how you can leverage this approach in your disciple-making efforts. (Apologies to myContinue reading “McDonald’s and Disciple Making: A Simple, Effective Strategy for Meeting”
Intentionality: Think A-Z Instead of L, M, N, or O.
The A-to-Z Approach to Disciple Making: A Comprehensive Path to Spiritual Maturity One of the most common misunderstandings in disciple making is the tendency to focus on a book study or a particular spiritual topic without considering the full scope of discipleship. While studying books and specific topics are important, they often concentrate on aContinue reading “Intentionality: Think A-Z Instead of L, M, N, or O.”
What the Bible Says About Discipling, Mentoring, Counseling, Coaching, Ministering, and Befriending
The panel at Bridgeway Church emphasized discipleship as the core of mentoring, counseling, coaching, ministering, and befriending. Discipleship fosters spiritual growth, enabling individuals to serve and guide others. Each role is interconnected, aiming to lead others toward deeper faith and obedience to Christ, fulfilling the Great Commission.
Navigating the Stumbles: Guiding Disciples in Grace and Truth
Discipleship involves growth, discernment, and correction. Disciple-makers guide learners through mistakes with love, patience, and a foundation in Scripture for spiritual maturity.
Explore What I Am Currently Reading: Insights and Reflections
Intentional: Living Out Eight Principles of Disciple Making The Village Effect: How Face-to-Face Contact Can Make Us Healthier, Happier, and Smarter Pinker, S. (2014). The Village Effect: How Face-to-Face Contact Can Make Us Healthier and Happier. Random House Canada, 378 pages. ISBN: 978-0307359537 In this interesting book (audiobook for me-Hoopla is amazing!), developmental psychologist SusanContinue reading “Explore What I Am Currently Reading: Insights and Reflections”
Creating Margin in Ministry: Jesus’ Example and Practical Tips
30 The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. 31 And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. 32 And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Mk. 6:30-32 In MarkContinue reading “Creating Margin in Ministry: Jesus’ Example and Practical Tips”
Lessons Learned from a Public Confrontation: Encouragement and Reflection
The author recalls an encounter in a restaurant where an unhappy individual criticized their conversation. Reflecting on the experience, they emphasize the importance of graciousness and sensitivity in public discussions, as well as the need to respond with kindness to those who criticize. They also highlight the value of learning from negative experiences for personal and spiritual growth.
Toby DeHay 