When life is overwhelming, take a step back and trust in the Lord. Get a new perspective and remember that there is always light in the darkness. Find comfort in the story of Elisha and the Arameans. Read this article for more on how to cope.
Reflections from the Clergy and Congregational Well-being Conference
I recently attended a conference at Duke University in North Carolina on congregational and clergy health in the church. It was an inspiring experience to be surrounded by so many people of different denominations and backgrounds, all united by the common goal of strengthening and healing the clergy and congregations in their care. The conference made me think about the importance of community and mentorship, and how working alone can feel isolating and futile when faced with the massive changes that need to be made. The story of Elijah in the Bible reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, and that God cares for his leaders and is doing something beautiful for his church. Click through to read more about my reflections from the conference.
What I learned from Covid 19
A few weeks ago, Adrienne and I attended the C3 Church conference in Tasmania and then stayed for a week’s holiday. We spent a great day in Port Arthur with some friends, visiting a world heritage site that was once a British penal colony. We rested, explored Hobart and hung out with friends. As we were about to check in …
Chrismas is empathy in the flesh
Beginning as children, we are often told the importance of empathy. We are taught not to push other kids on the playground, or take their toys because “how would you like it if they did that to you?” This is usually our first brush with the concept that other people have feelings, just like us. They can feel hurt and …
3 Key Strategies for Personal Wellbeing – Guest Blog: Dr. Chris Adams
Guest Blogger: Dr. Chris Adams Executive Director Center for Vocational Ministry Azusa Pacific University Senior Research Associate: The Flourishing in Ministry Project University of Notre Dame Keep perspective. God is with us, no matter what happens. The hope of Easter resurrection is alive! The Christian Church is the most resilient movement in history, having survived and even thrived during wars, …
2 builders, 2 impeders and 2 destroyers of Effective Communication
2 things that build trust: Listening and Affirmation Have you noticed that when you talk with emotionally healthy influencers and leaders you feel listened to, affirmed and encouraged? There is something about the way they consistently listen with empathy and speak with clarity that builds trust. You are made to feel safe and valued and that you belong. There are …
3 Keys to thriving COVID-19
3 more Gauges Continuing on with Thriving through COVID-19, here are some more thoughts on paying attention to your gauges for well-being. Gauges help you know how you are doing, and reflecting on this allows you to make plans to replenish.You are designed to make a difference. Running out of fuel or oil will stop you. Filling your tank gives …
Thriving through COVID-19
In 43 years of ministry/leadership, I have never seen our world under such pressure. COVID-19 has put everyone under immense pressure. Our families, workplace and our neighbourhoods are caught up in it. Our churches have been prevented from gathering indefinitely. Coupled with all this is the demand to reinvent the way we do church and ministry. Can we effectively minister …
Where is God in your life?
Cultivating a high awareness of God’s interaction with daily life Burnout affects relationships.Relationships are effected through feeling high detachment. Feelings of high depletion and low satisfaction with life and work compound this. I am so grateful for the key relationships of family and friends that were endured through the difficult and dark time of burnout. Thank you! My wife loved …
Conversations show our connectedness with God
Part 2 of emotional health and a spiritual vitality that demonstrates a connected relationship with GodThe second area we look at in our connected relationship is our conversation with God. What’s happening when you talk with Him? What effect does that have on you and others? Not only could I not read my Bible during the darkest days of burnout, …