Do you have more conflicts than conversions? More disputes than disciples? If so, growing in humility may be what you need to avoid your next potential argument. Susan Lutz explains why. Takeaways and additional thoughts … The proud person can fall into the trap of believing his flaws are minor, so he can be tempted to think the person who complains … [Read more...]
Hijacking member complaints for the glory of God
Lunch was great. But you know what’s next. And it’s not the bill. “Pastor, I’d like to talk to you about something …” From there you hear yet another complaint about the church—what you’re not doing, what you could be doing, who’s being neglected, who feels rejected. On and on it goes. Instead of listening, you start nodding—not in agreement with him, but affirming … [Read more...]
Feeling the burn: Defusing the source of your anger
It’s no secret that we get angry with staff members, church members, and even family members. But just because we may have more spiritual authority and insight than those we interact with doesn’t mean we’re always innocent when it comes to conflict. Elyse Fitzpatrick explains … Questions to ask yourself when you’re angry with a church member: What do I want … [Read more...]
Loving enough to say no: The necessity of confrontation
Are your leaders reluctant to confront? If your leaders won’t confront those who need to be challenged or corrected, you won’t have a healthy church. Conflict will simmer. People will never reach their potential in Christ. And you’ll end up dealing with more problems than necessary. Dr. Robert Jones shares a few concepts you can pass along to your leaders who may be hesitant … [Read more...]