Few phrases sound more caring than “How can I help?” We use it at hospital bedsides, after funerals, in online comments, and in church hallways. It seems compassionate. It seems Christian. But often, those words don’t lead to anything. The person in pain nods politely. “I’m okay. Thanks.” We walk away feeling relieved, thinking weContinue reading ““How Can I Help?”: Words That Can Actually Hurt”
Tag Archives: Encouragement
Wise Openness: Sharing Honestly Without Oversharing
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”
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”
You Don’t Have to Grow Alone: Finding a Discipler
Discipleship is at the heart of the Christian life, modeled by Jesus Himself in His relationships with His followers. Finding someone to disciple you can be a crucial step if you desire to grow spiritually and deepen your faith. This guide explores how to seek out and approach a mature believer who can help youContinue reading “You Don’t Have to Grow Alone: Finding a Discipler”
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.
Disciple Making Principles: Barnabas, Son of Encouragement
This article discusses the multifaceted role of Barnabas in the book of Acts, emphasizing his qualities as an encourager, humble giver, introducer, delegate, reproducer, and trusted leader. His actions exemplify generosity, leadership, and a commitment to disciple-making, highlighting his importance in fostering community and spreading the gospel among believers.
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”
A Healthy Leader Disciples Others Regularly
In my disciplemaking book for bivocational pastors, I share about my friend Tyler in Kentucky. Tyler came to Christ in 2013 in a dramatic way and started praying that the Lord would send him someone to help him learn more about the Bible, and how to walk as a believer and encourage him as heContinue reading “A Healthy Leader Disciples Others Regularly”
Disciplemaking and a Forgotten Bible: A Disciple is Not Interested, Now What?
Several years ago, I was visiting my friend in his office and noticed the same Bible had been on an end table in his sitting area. I asked about it, and he said, “I keep that there to remind me some disciples simply don’t make it.” My friend had been meeting with another believer andContinue reading “Disciplemaking and a Forgotten Bible: A Disciple is Not Interested, Now What?”
給我的中國兄弟姐妹的話
A Word of Encouragement for My Chinese Brothers and Sisters. I’m currently listening to Faith in the Wilderness by Hannah Nation and Simon Liu. It’s highly convicting. This book reminds me that there are faithful brothers and sisters throughout the world who hold fast to the teachings of Christ and deeply love His Word, abideContinue reading “給我的中國兄弟姐妹的話”
Toby DeHay 