One thing I enjoy most about the Christmas holiday season is having more time to read than is typically afforded in my schedule during other times in the year. In addition, when my family exchanges gifts, as part of our Christmas tradition, I am usually given books as Christmas presents. (Insert … [Read more...] about C.S. Lewis on our “Unwelcome Diagnosis”
What Ever Happened to The Fear of the Lord?
Recently, I’ve been thinking about the Biblical emphasis on what’s called “the fear of the Lord” in the book of Proverbs. Rightly understood, the "fear" of the Lord is simply a holy reverence for God and his commands. In my interactions with students and young leaders, and in my general observations … [Read more...] about What Ever Happened to The Fear of the Lord?
Why You Should Plan Your Summer
For many people, summer brings changes in schedules along with warmer weather. This is particularly true for students and those who work with students, such as teachers, professors, and campus ministry leaders. This change of schedule is usually met with rejoicing by all, but summer goes quickly. To … [Read more...] about Why You Should Plan Your Summer
Pace Yourself to Finish Well
If you are passionate about your ministry vision, it’s wise to work hard. College ministry is not a place for slackers. Steve Murrell said it well in a recent article, "If you want an easy job, don't do ministry." This truth should be taken to heart by all those considering stepping into full time … [Read more...] about Pace Yourself to Finish Well
Campus Ministry is Not a “Junior Varsity” Calling
How important is full-time college campus ministry? Is it merely an avenue for relatively inexperienced ministers to get their feet wet in ministry—something that should be viewed as an automatic stepping stone into something truly important? Or, is it an area of ministry of such high importance … [Read more...] about Campus Ministry is Not a “Junior Varsity” Calling
Easter: A Great Opportunity for College Ministry
Easter is a big deal for Christians. We celebrate the fact that Jesus didn’t stay dead after he was crucified. After he died—he was raised to life, offering hope to all who would trust in him! Most churches consider this their biggest outreach opportunity of the year. What about campus ministries? … [Read more...] about Easter: A Great Opportunity for College Ministry
How I Faced My Fear of Sharing the Gospel
Most Christians know that they should share the Gospel with others, but actually doing it is another matter. Too often our fears, lack of confidence, and excuses win and we do nothing. How can we overcome our fears and actually be the witnesses that we are called to be? When it comes to fear of … [Read more...] about How I Faced My Fear of Sharing the Gospel
What to Do When the Student Conference is Over
Recently, I shared a few reasons why I think it’s helpful to take college students to a relevant ministry conference. These events can have a catalytic impact upon the lives of the students and leaders who attend them, but what should you do after the conference? How do you maximize this moment and … [Read more...] about What to Do When the Student Conference is Over
3 Helpful Leadership Podcasts
Most of us know that we need help to reach our full leadership potential. With the abundance of options available, where should you start and how can you make the most of your time? I really enjoy listening to podcasts, particularly those related to the topic of leadership. I spend time commuting … [Read more...] about 3 Helpful Leadership Podcasts
College Ministry Conference: Yes, It’s Worth The Effort
Most campus ministers encourage the students they lead to go to a college ministry conference sometime during their college experience. While there are similarities and differences with each, there is at least one big commonality for those leaders trying to get students to these events—It takes lots … [Read more...] about College Ministry Conference: Yes, It’s Worth The Effort
3 Obstacles to Effectiveness in Campus Ministry
Many people start out with the intention of making an impact on their campus. Yet so many seem to lack the results they desire in campus ministry. Have you ever wondered why? Me too. I recently conducted a survey of campus ministry leaders to assess some of the greatest needs and challenges that … [Read more...] about 3 Obstacles to Effectiveness in Campus Ministry
Why We Must Choose to Be Vulnerable
Life can be heartbreaking sometimes. People disappoint us and hurt us. It can be especially hard if the hurt is coming from a person we are emotionally invested in—a friend we have loved deeply, a coworker we have a long history with, or a family member we want to trust but who keeps doing the same … [Read more...] about Why We Must Choose to Be Vulnerable