No one likes passive aggressive communication. And it usually falls in the category of “I know it when I see it” … but we can’t always define it. We don’t always understand it. Which makes it much harder to stop it. Every pastor and ministry leader needs strong communication skills. So today, let's look at … Continue reading Recognizing (And Stopping) Passive Aggressive Communication
It might be a buzzword, a counseling cliche, or something that feels way too touchy-feely. But if you’re in Christian ministry, you need to understand empathy. What is it? Why does it matter for Christians? Is it something you should aim for in your ministry? What would that really look like? These are good questions … Continue reading What Is Empathy? … And How To Show It, Even When You Disagree With Someone
One of the most common calls that Christ gives to his followers is that they should forgive one another. It’s all over the pages of Scripture! And it is hard. When we sin or mess up, it is hard to apologize. We wonder what to say, how to say it, and sometimes if we even … Continue reading The Nuts & Bolts Of Forgiveness: How To Apologize, Forgive, And Help Others Do It Too
James 1:19 - Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Hearing people and helping people FEEL heard are two different things. In today’s busy, loud, disconnected world, feeling heard is an incredibly meaning experience. Everyone wants to know that they are seen, valued, and appreciated. Of course, we cannot make … Continue reading Quick Tips For How To Make Sure Other People Feel Heard And Valued By You
James 1:19 - Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Many of us think we are better listeners than we really are. But there is a reason the Bible tells us to be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19). Listening is powerful and important. And the reality … Continue reading 3 Keys To Being A Good Listener (Even When You’re Distracted)
Philippians 4:8 (NIV ) - Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. One of the most common things that Christian counselors help clients with is getting their thought life more in line … Continue reading How To Use Philippians 4:8 To Replace Patterns Of Negative Thinking
Even strong Christians sometimes struggle with negative thinking. We can get stuck overthinking things, blaming ourselves for problems, grumbling, or judging others in our thoughts. But there are strategies that will help! As you pray over these struggles, confess your sin, and seek the Holy Spirit’s help, these 5 strategies will give you practical action … Continue reading Dealing With Negative, Unhelpful Thought Patterns By Using The 5 R’s
At some point in life, everyone will struggle with conflict. The church is not immune! Even in the best ministry, there are different personalities, priorities, and preferences. Conflict will happen. So what’s a pastor or leader to do? Of course, the top urgency is to start with prayer. Pray for the other person, for the … Continue reading 4 Key Steps To Conflict Resolution In A Ministry Context
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. (1 Corinthians 13:1) Every Christian is called to show love to those around us. "Love your neighbor as yourself," Jesus tells us. Love your enemies. People will know you … Continue reading 3 Keys To Good Interpersonal Communication