The typical American attitude about summer is that it is a great time to kick back and relax. But could there be more to it? As a parent, when our children were young, Terrie and I saw summer as a time to invest in their lives in ways that were not as possible during the school year.

Ladies ministry is a very important part of the local church. It can make or break the spirit of the ladies in the church, depending on the leadership of the ministry.

The miraculous history of the United States of America is due in part to the sacred fire of the American pulpit. It has been the preachers who have unashamedly preached the whole counsel of God’s Word.

One of my favorite of the American founding fathers is Patrick Henry. I remember visiting his estate at Red Hill several years ago in Eastern Virginia. In the museum, was a copy of his last will and testament.

The picture above illustrates an important truth about priorities and relationships. It’s a multi-tiered fountain. Imagine, if you would, your life as a fountain, and each of the levels are your priorities.

To me, encouraging other pastors isn’t just a nice idea. It is a responsibility. And training and equipping young preachers is part of God’s calling on my life.

Brian Shaffer pastors the same church he was called to preach in as a young boy. Born and raised in the Kansas City area, he never expected this is where his call to ministry would lead.

Each year BIMI teaches new missionaries about culture shock and cross cultural evangelism. When missionaries leave the United Sates and enter other countries, they immediately face the task of adjusting to a different culture.

Summer is almost as good as a new year for the fresh energy it gives us in setting goals and planning times of renewal. Of course, summer means different things to different people. To students, it means “freedom.” To farmers, it means “work”!

Some of the most positive experiences of my life have rested on words of encouragement or help. Each time I benefit from the positive words of others, I’m more motivated than ever before to use my words in an uplifting way.