Have you ever felt “bad” about yourself? Have you ever been insecure about yourself? Some of the most loud, gregarious, and excitable people have some of the greatest insecurities. In fact, sometimes their outward “face” is simply masking their inward “frustrations.” Why? Because everyone at some point struggles with identity. I don’t care how successful a person is in life, everyone, and I mean e...  Read More

Main Point and Overview:   So often how we “view ourselves” is shaped by a difficult upbringing. Maybe you had parents who were harsh, always demeaning or discouraging you. Maybe there was more criticism than love in your home growing up. The past has unfortunately helped to shape the present. You find yourself treating your family in the same toxic ways that you were treated. What you need is a r...  Read More

 2 Timothy 1:3-7 “I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.  I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind ...  Read More

“Psyche yourself up!” We’ve all told ourselves that at some point. I remember when I played sports in my (much) younger days, preparing myself mentally and emotionally to get out there and win. I remember one game in particular, we were playing our league rival. Mind you, this was like when I was 10 or 11-years-old, so it wasn’t playing for the national title but still a big game. I played linebac...  Read More

I don't know about you, but when Sarah and I watch a movie (a chick flick) it is almost impossible for me to stay focused. Chances are there is some sporting event I would much rather be watching, and my attention drifts to my phone to watch it. Which almost always leads Sarah to asking— ”Are you even watching this? Do you even care about what is going on in this movie?” I tend to think I have the...  Read More

Have you ever had a mentor or mentored someone? It is a task that comes with great responsibility, maybe some frustrations, but ultimately great joy. Mentoring at its core is showing someone how to do what you do by teaching them and developing them, so that one day they can fly solo. This is a common practice within the workspace, but should be used more so within the church! There are so many yo...  Read More