Soulprint

Mark Batterson has written some outstanding books that have helped preachers and teachers, and his latest release also will find a receptive audience among church leaders. In Soulprint (Multnomah), Mark uses the life of David as the basis for recognizing the defining moments in our lives.

Illustration: Pride, Identity

It seems the University of Tennessee coach bought a bolt of cloth thinking he would have a suit made. He took the material to his tailor in Knoxville where the tailor measured him, examined the bolt of cloth, did some computations on a piece of paper, and said, "I'm sorry, coach, there just isn't enough material in this bolt to make a suit for you." The coach was disappointed, but he threw the bolt of cloth in the trunk of his car, wondering what he was going to do with it.

Keepers of the Aquarium

In a recent article for ChurchLeaders.com, Charlotte pastor Steven Furtick argues that most churches "say they want to reach people, but in reality they're more focused on preservation than expansion. On keeping people rather than reaching them. They let saved people dictate style. Saved people dictate focus. Saved people dictate vision.

Waste, Worship or What?

Sometimes we may think that what we do for the Lord doesn't really matter. It may not be appreciated by some people, and it may be misunderstood by others. It is possible to be weary in well-doing. On the other hand, it is just as possible to lost passion, fire, focus and timely expression in our devotion to Christ. There are lessons here today from the Word of God for those who may need the fire of their devotion rekindled as we view our lives in relation to Christ, His cross and His mission.