When Betty came into my office, she was distraught, confused and disturbed. She blurted out, “ I hate myself and I know that isn’t right. I know I should love myself, but I can’t. Pastor, please help me!” Betty is typical of many people who struggle with life and who think they are supposed to… Continue reading DO YOU LOVE YOURSELF?
Author: Cal
ELIJAH – 6: DEPRESSION – How to get up when you are down!
Depression is common – So many people experience depression in America that it has been called the “common cold of emotional illness.” – About 5% of the population or 15 million people are clinically depressed at any one time. – About one in six Americans will experience a significant depressive episode at some point in… Continue reading ELIJAH – 6: DEPRESSION – How to get up when you are down!
WORSHIP: The Entertainment Model
A while back I was asked to speak on an unusual topic at an interdenominational conference for church leaders. The topic I was assigned was, “Worship: The Entertainment Model.” I’d never heard the term before. In fact, at first, I was insulted that I would be asked to speak on such a topic. It was… Continue reading WORSHIP: The Entertainment Model
FACING DEATH FEARLESSLY
For many years, I have wanted to write a book on the Christian theology of death. There is so little reliable information available, and people have a great deal of confusion about it. I never have written the book because publishers know people aren’t willing to buy such books. People avoid talking about and even… Continue reading FACING DEATH FEARLESSLY
WHAT MAKES PREACHING EFFECTIVE?
Every week in America, it is estimated that 55 million people listen to more than a billion words in sermons. Billions more words are spoken from pulpits around the world. The number one complaint from the people in most congregations is this: “Sermons are boring and unrelated to my life.” PREACHING IS FOR SPIRITUAL LIFE-CHANGE… Continue reading WHAT MAKES PREACHING EFFECTIVE?
THE HEALTH CARE DEBATE: Truth and Civility Please!
I have been a conservative, evangelical pastor and church leader for more than 45 years. During that time, I have carefully guarded myself against speaking publicly on most political issues and have refused to take public partisan positions in reference to political parties. I am a preacher of the gospel not a political advocate. So… Continue reading THE HEALTH CARE DEBATE: Truth and Civility Please!
ELIJAH – 5: Prayer that Gets Results
– Charles Finney, the famous evangelist, was overheard praying, “And thou knowest Lord, that in these matters, I am not accustomed to being denied.” – not many of us would dare to make that statement to God – most of us would admit that there is something lacking in the quality and effectiveness of our… Continue reading ELIJAH – 5: Prayer that Gets Results
I PREACH TO FIVE CONGREGATIONS EVERY SUNDAY
One Sunday, I remember looking out at the congregation of more than 1,000 people that I had the privilege of ministering truth to each week. There was John, a recent convert. He was divorced and single. He had come out of a totally secular environment but was eager, inquisitive and loaded questions. He was sorting… Continue reading I PREACH TO FIVE CONGREGATIONS EVERY SUNDAY
HANDLING DISAGREEMENTS
Americans disagree about what to do about health care. Christians disagree about the purpose of the local church. Couples disagree about how to spend money. As have all leaders, I’ve experienced disagreements. Certainly, not everyone has seen life the way I have nor have they had the same vision for ministry that I have had.… Continue reading HANDLING DISAGREEMENTS
PAUL’S FRIENDS: The importance of team building
Throughout my pastoral experience, I have had the privilege of working as part of a series of teams. It is one of the challenges and joys of leading and serving in larger churches. I have learned from my team members. I have been able to pour myself into the lives of others. It has been… Continue reading PAUL’S FRIENDS: The importance of team building