Christmas will be difficult for many this year. Perhaps the death of loved ones is becoming incredibly real all over again, or maybe financial hardships have brought a family to the breaking point. I hurt deeply for those who are struggling, suffering, or sorrowing this Christmas.

Great potential can come out of nowhere, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Christmas narrative. Jesus is the greatest and most impacting Man to have ever walked the face of this planet, because He was God that came as man as stated in John one and Philippians two.

An echo chamber is a lousy place to serve. Isolating ourselves to hear only an echo of our own opinions keeps us from growth. This is because part of the process of growth is for our thinking to be challenged.

Without a doubt, our greatest resources for Christian servant leaders are the indwelling Holy Spirit and the Word of God. But a leader’s greatest commodity (something useful that when in plentiful supply diminishes the importance of other factors) is influence.

There is no doubt that God expects His children to maintain and practice a spirit of thanksgiving and sincere gratitude. This is, first and foremost, to be directed toward our Heavenly Father from whom all blessings flow.

This Thanksgiving season I am taking a few moments to reflect on one question: Am I truly a thankful person?

As we approach Thanksgiving, our hearts turn, perhaps more than usual, toward God in thanks for His many blessings. Indeed, our lives are full of His blessings. As Psalm 68:19 tells us, “Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.”

Speak to nearly any believer and they will usually agree with two general statements. The first being that to accomplish what God has called us to do requires a commitment to a disciplined prayer life. However, the second general truth that nearly every believer agrees with is that they do not pray enough.

Memorize verses that have helped you. They will do you even more good if you have them ready the next time you need them.

The Great Commission of Christ is, in fact, the mission of the local church. As Christians, and especially as local churches, Christ’s last command must be our first priority.