Undoubtedly in your ministry, you’ve encountered people who hold on to grudges tightly or who are embroiled in conflict. In these cases, forgiveness must be a key focus of your pastoral care. But how do you explain the biblical concept of forgiveness? As a Christian, your starting point is different from what we hear in the wider secular culture. Intentionally seeking and … [Read more...]
Body or soul?
Psychotropic medications are a sensitive topic; most people you talk to will have fairly strong opinions about whether or not they should be used in treating a host of life’s problems. In thinking about this, though, it’s helpful to take a step back and consider who we are as human persons. In doing so, this helps us understand where life issues fall on the spectrum between … [Read more...]
3 essential elements in the change process
You might not know “Brock,” but his struggles with extravagant spending and gambling can illustrate three essential elements for change in a Christian’s life. What Brock needs to change in his life Brock has been a Christian for about three years. Currently, he is a manager at a plastics manufacturing company, and he receives a good salary. Nevertheless, he is struggling … [Read more...]
Ministry to military personnel
Interviews with chaplains Major Jonette Englehardt and Colonel Ken Lawson How might you minister to the men and women in the US military? Those who serve our country in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard take a season of their lives to serve and protect us. Their lives inevitably involve sacrifice and stress. Consequently, they are likely to need a lot of … [Read more...]
The initial marriage counseling session
Where do I start? Ministry requires never-ending learning and growing. I am constantly reminded about something I need to do and develop. Just a few weeks ago, a fellow elder emailed me, asking for guidance for how he and his wife should start their first meeting with a couple who was in marital crisis. My mind raced through my various training lessons and notes. What I … [Read more...]
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