Where do you get wise advice? Do you have trusted friends? Maybe a therapist? Do you view authors or commentators as sources of quality perspective? Lately I’ve been deeply impressed with Ted Gioia. I also appreciate the wisdom of numerous close friends. But it is my wife who, on a daily basis, shines with herContinue reading “The critical factor that can keep us from following good advice – 2 Samuel 16—20, Part 2”
Tag Archives: listen
How avoiding the “shoulds,” tapping in to the Spirit, and listening help us become the kind of people who…speak life to one another, Part 5
This week I welcome guest blogger, Kirk Marks. Kirk is a retired pastor, having served 30+ years in both local churches with his wife, Debbie, and in denominational administration. He has also taught theology and led a pastoral assessment center for many years. He and Debbie, along with their two daughters and son-in-law are membersContinue reading “How avoiding the “shoulds,” tapping in to the Spirit, and listening help us become the kind of people who…speak life to one another, Part 5″
Healthy communication – Ecclesiastes 12:9-14, Part 1
I’ve had to read some dense philosophy and theology books over the years for courses I was taking. For a doctoral course this past spring, I read one so intricate, there were numerous times I wondered if it was a farce, a parody of a book. In fact, the author frequently made statements that, inContinue reading “Healthy communication – Ecclesiastes 12:9-14, Part 1”
Why listening to painful things is better than foolish laughter – Ecclesiastes 7:1-14, Part 3
I have been in a doctoral program for the last two years, and this past spring I finished my coursework and passed comprehensive exams. That means I now need to write the dissertation. A book. I’m writing a book. And it feels like a mountain. The first step was to write a proposal for myContinue reading “Why listening to painful things is better than foolish laughter – Ecclesiastes 7:1-14, Part 3”
Christians, are we seeing the needs? Are we listening? – Acts 14, Part 2
Christian people, I have a question for you: when people think of you do they think, “there is a person who listens, who sees, who has empathy, who cares”? Or do they think, “there is a person who won’t stop talking, who is so focused on themselves”? What kind of Christian should we be? We’veContinue reading “Christians, are we seeing the needs? Are we listening? – Acts 14, Part 2”
Engaging Scripture 