Tag: discipleship

Who Is Shaping Your Life? Build The Right Influences

Leaders may like to think we’re independent thinkers and actors, but really we’re not. You are being formed every day – by who you spend time with, who you listen to, and what you give your attention to. Some people stretch you, strengthen and sharpen you, others dilute, distract, drain or may even be out to destroy you! Here’s a simple diagnostic to establish the truth about who is shaping your life: Nobody is a Stand-Alone Leader Leaders form communities, and we cannot be formed in isolation. We are shaped as we shape, in community – whether intentional or accidental. The question therefore is not if you are being shaped, it’s who is shaping you? And I think we need to be aware and intentional about that now, more than ever as that shaping includes: In a world of ‘influencers’ – some of the most influential “people” in your life may include some you’ve never actually met. Two Circles Every Leader Lives In We inhabit two communities: 1. Public Community These are the people who: This circle determines your influence. They are important. […]

Caleb Christians. Why Church Must Rethink Retirement

What if instead of asking:
“What will I do when I retire?”
We ask: “What hill country is God still calling me to take?”
That’s the question Caleb wanted to figure out at 85. It should challenge and shape our faith today.

A Holy Offering: Living Transformed in Romans 12

Great talk this morning at Ivy Church by Mary Thomason! This post adapted from my notes…  What does Romans 12 teach us? Key Takeaways The Journey to Romans 12 Before Paul calls us to holy living in Romans 12, he takes us on a theological journey. He explains why we need a Saviour, who will be saved, and how the Holy Spirit works in our lives. Only then does he tell us what our response should be. This is the culmination of everything that comes before it. Your Body as Living Sacrifice “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”Romans 12:1-2 The Power of “Therefore” Notice that word: therefore. It’s not just a transition – it’s a hinge. This “therefore” points back to everything Paul has […]

How to Grow as a Christian

Christian growth is not automatically produced by information, imitation, or religious effort. Drawing on 30 years of church leadership, this guide explores how to grow as a Christian through the rhythm of Knowing, Growing, and Going – shaping faith that is rooted, resilient, and lived out in everyday life.

Good Fruit Grows in Tough Soil – A New Year Reflection on John 15

As the year opens, John 15 reminds us that vines grow through seasons, not constant progress. Pruning can feel brutal, tough soil can feel like the wrong place, and winter can feel empty – but the Father is the vinedresser. Hard ground doesn’t mean you’re misplaced -it may be preparing you for fruit still to come.

A Simple Christingle Talk for Families – Light, Life and Love (John 1:1–5)

A simple Christingle talk for families, rooted in John 1:1–5, exploring light, life and love at Christmas. Free to use in churches and schools.