Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Humility



I am currently in Kansas City for a meeting today. Yesterday I attended the onething conference put on by the International House of Prayer. There are 20,000 plus youth in attendance here, most on fire for God.

Last night, Loren Cunningham addressed the crowd. He is the founder of Youth With a Mission (YWAM) which is celebrating its 50 year anniversary. They are the largest mission organization in the world. He has been very good friends with people like Bill Bright, Billy Graham and Oral Roberts. He has impacted more people for Christ than most who have ever lived. Yet, he remains incredibly humble. Last night, he sluffed off all his accolades and gave credit to God and others.

That humility is one of the main reasons he is such a great leader.

God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
James 4:6b

Monday, December 28, 2009

Urban Renewal

I must admit before getting started that I am not a fan of the Florida Gators. In fact, I kind of dislike them. It probably stems from the fact that they clobbered my beloved Buckeyes in the national championship game several years ago. I know, I'm a sore loser (and I probably need to get a life).

With that being said, I do respect what they have done. I also respect Urban Meyer, their very successful coach.

This weekend he shocked the college football world by announcing that he was resigning at the age of 45 to take care of his health. Then, within 24 hours, he announced that he will take the offer the university gave him of a sabbatical before returning to the team.

The impression I got from hearing his press conference was that he was burned out. It also appears that it is all or nothing with Meyer and that he clearly works way too much. Some reporters said it was a true 24/7 job with him. This had apparently caught up with him causing him to collapse after this year's SEC Championship Game.

Over his five years at Florida, Meyer has won two national championships and has the highest winning percentage of any active coach--quite impressive. So, this could not have been an easy decision. He is at the top of his game. Plus he makes $4 million per year. He has "success" in the world's eyes. Yet, he is stepping down. He obviously sees that all this "success" isn't worth much if he doesn't have his health or his family to share it with.

I applaud Urban Meyer for making this decision.

Heading into this new year, this can be a great lesson for all of us who are driven personalities. Balance between work and life is so important. We must make time to live, laugh and love...and to rest and renew.

Carpe Diem!

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Christmas Blessings


Merry Christmas to you!

Check out this short video which contains my prayer for you...many blessings this Christmas and in the coming new year!

Monday, December 21, 2009

Encourage Someone Today


Have you ever felt down and been encouraged by someone? Perhaps it was a kind word or a gift. Maybe it was just them listening and understanding. Regardless, they made a difference in your life at that moment.

Check out the short video above for a reminder of the difference we can make in the lives of others through very simple acts.

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up...
1 Thessalonians 5:11a

Friday, December 18, 2009

Life Is But A Mist

I have been a golf fan since my younger days and I loved to follow Jack Nicklaus. I'm not sure exactly why. It could have been because he went to Ohio State and was a Buckeye. It could have been because of his charisma or the fact that he seemed like a good guy. Nevertheless, he was my guy.

I never thought that his record for major golf championships would be broken in my lifetime. Jack has 18 championships to his credit in the four biggies played each year. When Nicklaus was playing, the next closest active player was Tom Watson at 8, so his record seemed insurmountable.

Then along came Tiger Woods who now stands at 14 championships. Up until a few weeks ago, I figured, as did the rest of the world, that he would eclipse Nicklaus' mark by a wide margin. Woods is relatively young and it seemed like a no-brainer that he would soon fly by Nicklaus.

Well, now I'm not so sure. With Tiger's troubles coming to light recently, I don't believe anyone knows what will happen with him. Shoot, he may never play again, we just don't know.

Also in the news was the sad death of Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver, Chris Henry, 26. Apparently he was arguing with his fiancee and jumped or fell out of a moving pickup truck and was killed. What a shame.

While sad, both of these stories can be a great lesson to all of us. We don't know what tomorrow holds, only the Lord does. So, let's make today count!

Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil.
James 4:13-16

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Perseverance

In 1992, Derek Redmond, Britain's star sprinter was looking to get into the finals of the 400 meter event at the Olympic Games in Barcelona.

His career was filled with injuries and this day would be no different as he tore his hamstring. Check out the short video above for a great picture of what perseverance is all about. It's about pressing on through our pain and adversity, knowing that our Heavenly Father is going to help us along the way.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Hebrews 12:1

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Sharpening the Saw

Yesterday, as I mentioned in my previous post, I got two or less hours of sleep before leading our 3rd Tuesday Truth At Work group that morning. I arrived back to my office around 12:30 and tried to catch up on some stuff that came up while I was away the prior few days. I really wanted to get caught up.

However, it seemed I just couldn't get much done. I felt like I was running in quicksand and getting nowhere fast. So, I decided to take a nap.

I then went to a production my son was involved in at school last night and came home and immediately went back to bed and had a great night's sleep.

Today, I had another Truth At Work group to lead and I am now in my office making some nice headway on my tasks.

Stephen Covey's seventh habit in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is Sharpen the Saw. He says that we must rest or refresh in order to be most effective. This is obviously a Biblical principle as well (see the 10 commandments). In the book, he tells the following story:

He's walking through the woods and he hears a sawing noise. He investigates and finds a guy sweating profusely as he tries to cut down a tree. He says to him, "What are you doing?"

The man replies, "I'm cutting down this tree, you dummy!"

Stephen says, "No, I mean, it looks like you have been working hard. How long have you been at this?"

"Two hours."

"Why don't you take some time to sharpen the saw? It will make things go much faster and easier."

"I don't have time to do that--I've got to get this tree cut down!"

Yesterday afternoon when I was trying to get my work done, I had the same attitude as that tree cutter. I could have worked for hours without getting much done. What I really needed was to sharpen my saw which in my case was getting some sleep.

How sharp is your saw?

For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day.
Exodus 20:11a

Monday, December 14, 2009

It's a Not To Worry

Sorry for the lack of posts the past few days. Today is my wonderful mother's 70th birthday. My wife and I and my three sisters along with my two brothers-in-law planned a 5 day trip to her favorite place on earth, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. The incredible thing about this is that my mom knew nothing of it until we called her at 2:30 AM while we were on our way to pick her up. She was told to not ask questions, but to simply take a shower. We then arrived and presented her with a new outfit for her to wear (my sisters had done some shopping and purchased clothing for her for the trip which was already packed for her) and off we went for the airport.

She (and we) had a wonderful time and are now almost home. However, the trip to St. Thomas was very eventful with lots of stuff happening at home which had me a bit stressed. There was nothing I could do about it, yet I was stressed. My wife kept trying to encourage me with a statement that my mother used to "encourage" me when I was younger, "It's a not to worry." This is one of her axioms for life even to this day.

Well, everything ended up just fine.

Now let me tell you about our trip home which began around Noon today.

We had arranged for a local taxi driver, whom we had befriended, to take us to the airport. I had asked that we leave for the airport about two and a half hours early; however, he said we didn’t need to leave until one and a half hours before our flight. We compromised and agreed on two hours.

Well, he was late. We found ourselves departing our condo one and a half hours before our flight (I guess he was going to get his way, no matter what!). We then got stuck in traffic and I was anything but peaceful.

When we finally arrived at the airport we had a little less than an hour before our flight departed, or so we thought. When we got to the gate, we saw that our flight had been moved up by fifteen minutes, yikes! So we waited in line and I have to admit, I was a little worried. I knew I could do nothing, yet, peace was not coming to me.

When we got to the counter, they couldn’t find our reservation. After a few minutes of searching the computer, they found us. Then, we had trouble getting through customs and security (we must look like a high risk!). As I was putting my shoes back on, my shoelace broke which slowed me a little further.

When we finally got to the gate, it was five minutes past when our flight was supposed to leave. Thankfully, they held it for us which does not happen often.

I am now sitting in Newark’s airport which we are connecting through to Detroit. Our two hour layover has now turned in to a six hour layover which will put us home sometime around 3:30 or 4 AM. I then need to leave my house two and a half hours later to set up and lead a four hour meeting. Oh well, it’s a not to worry!

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
Matthew 6:34

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Leading By Example

In college, I played basketball for The University of Toledo. When I was a freshman, I was much like a scared kitten. I tried to just stay out of every one's way. I didn't have a clue about much of anything, especially leadership.

UT has a freshman on their team this year who amazes me. Jake Barnett's playing ability is not the thing that impresses me (although he is very good). It is his leadership that I marvel at.

As this article in The Toledo Blade shares, Jake was named by his teammates as a captain of the team. The first time a freshman has held that mantle in school history.

"There was a respect factor there for us as a whole group that we have for Jake," junior forward Justin Anyijong said. "That's why we did that. We don't look at him as a freshman. We look at him as one of our leaders."

Jake is the first one in the gym before practice and the last one to leave. Now I found out that after games, he goes back out on the floor to work on his shooting. Amazing. After practice, I think I was the first one in the locker room!

I was talking with one of the assistant coaches at UT and he told me that from day one, Jake has been a leader. In fact, he said that he came in and organized a Bible study for the team and has changed the entire team atmosphere. That sort of thing from a freshman is unheard of. And, it's very cool!

It's clear that Jake Barnett is not only going to have an impact out on the floor during his career at UT, but also in the lives of many!

Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
1 Timothy 4:12

Monday, December 07, 2009

Shoes In Africa

I was talking with a friend of mine on Friday who lost his job a couple of months ago. He was telling me that there's really nothing out there for him in his area of expertise.

Most people who are in that situation mope around and complain. But my conversation with Pat was very encouraging for me because he was recounting all of the other opportunities that lay before him. None of them are really in the field he is experienced in, yet he is looking at this situation as very exciting, with a "I can't wait to see what you are going to do God!" attitude.

I shared with him that this reminded me of a story I heard about a shoe company who hired two salesmen to sell shoes for them in Africa. They trained them and sent them on their way with order forms in hand.

About a month later, one of the salesmen returned home with no orders written. He dejectedly told his manager, "There is no way to sell shoes in Africa. No one wears shoes over there!"

Another month went by and nobody from the company had heard from salesman #2. Then a package arrived from him. In the package was a stack of order forms and payments along with a message that said, "Please send more order forms ASAP! No one wears shoes here! The opportunities are endless!"

So what kind of attitude are you going to choose?

Finally, brothers, 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.
Philippians 4:8

Thursday, December 03, 2009

Nothing to Hide

I started in my men's accountability group/bible study six years ago. I was terrified the first day. I had no idea what to expect.

I was a guy who kept everything to himself. I wanted everyone to think that everything was going great and that I had no issues. I was a walking facade.

When we began, guys began to share some pretty intimate details about their life, including their issues. My immediate thought was that this was pretty weird. But I have to admit, a part of me was saying this was really cool.

It came my turn to share. I surprised myself by revealing some things that I had been holding on to and trying to carry all by myself.

Immediately afterwards, I felt a tremendous relief, as if a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. I remember calling my wife after the meeting and saying, "What have I been doing all my life without this!" It provided that much relief to me.

I have now come to a place where I realize that everyone has issues. Some are bigger than others, yet we all have 'em. Even Tiger Woods.

Tiger was involved in a minor car accident a few days ago in his driveway which seems pretty strange. He has remained silent about it which has added more fuel to the fire in the media. Yesterday, however, he released an apology of sorts:

"I have let my family down and I regret those transgressions with all of my heart," Woods said on his Web site. "I have not been true to my values and the behavior my family deserves. I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect. I am dealing with my behavior and personal failings behind closed doors with my family. Those feelings should be shared by us alone."

I am sure Tiger feels a bit better after releasing this apology; however, I bet he still feels like he is in a prison of sorts because he is trying to keep whatever happened hidden.

There are now rumors of marital infidelity on Woods' part. Even if this is true, I believe Tiger would feel much more free if it was out in the open. Only when it is brought into the light can true healing take place.

I know that Tiger has a lot more at stake than I do or just about anyone else and it's real easy for me to say this, not being in his shoes. However, just because he is one of the most famous people on earth, does not mean that certain axioms don't apply to him. One such axiom that applies here is this one that a good friend of mine shared with me, "When you've got nothing to hide, you are the most free person in the world."

"For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open."
Luke 8:17

Workaholic

You might be a workaholic if you ever do this...or think of doing this. Watch this 29 second video:



Wednesday, December 02, 2009

The Answer Is No

Do you ever feel like God's answers to your prayers seems to be "No" a lot more than "Yes"? Did you ever consider that He probably has a good reason for that?

It could be that what you are asking for doesn't line up with His will. Or it could be that He knows what is best for you (just like you do as a parent). I'll bet if you looked at some of your requests in the past, you can say, "I sure am glad He didn't give me what I was asking for then!"

No matter what, God has your best interests at heart at all times. Watch this short video for a glimpse of this.


Lord, help us to be "so be it" Christians - people who are joyful at all times - people who pray continually and people who are thankful in all circumstances!

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Monday, November 30, 2009

No Pain, No Gain

I have been having some tightness in my shoulders lately and my chiropractor, Dr. Daryl, suggested that I begin lifting weights again. You see, I do this in my basement and ever since we had the flood in the basement, I have not gotten back to my weight workouts.

It had been a couple months and I just knew that when I began, I would be very sore...so I just put it off. Well, this weekend I finally got back at it. And guess what? I am sore. But it's a good kind of sore. I know it is all for good.

We also decorated our house on Saturday for Christmas. The thought of this on Friday had my wife and I groaning. Don't get me wrong, we love Christmas. It's just that this task seems to be more overwhelming each year. But, we did it.

Not only did we get it done, we actually had a little fun doing it (I love working alongside Connie...it's one of my favorite things to do). Then she and I got to go out to dinner and have a nice evening together enjoying our newly decorated house.

Many times, in order to move forward, we will need to experience pain or at least do some things that we are not excited about. I heard it said once that pain is mandatory but suffering is optional. It's all attitude.

Friday, November 27, 2009

Workaholics Anonymous

Thanksgiving is a great time to reflect on all the incredible blessings God has given us. One of those incredible blessings is our families.

Many of us, especially the men, have a tendency to want to work too much, all under the guise of "providing" for our families. If we were real with ourselves, we would know that there is another reason for this drive. Success, achievement, praise or something else. Whatever it might be, one thing is almost certain. Our families would rather have us home more.

Check out this video which will drive this point home: click here to watch.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving


Happy Thanksgiving!

Pains Purpose II

On Monday night I had a deep tissue massage. It had been quite a few years since I had this done. I had always remembered it to be a very relaxing, enjoyable experience. Monday's was anything but enjoyable. In fact, it was quite painful.

The therapist said the I am a massage therapist's dream because there is so much work to be done on me. She didn't even leave my shoulders and neck area for the hour-long session. It seems like there were about 50 marbles in that region of my body that she tried to work out, hence the pain.

On my drive home I did feel a bit more relaxed in my shoulders. Then yesterday morning brought with it more pain. It had felt like I had lost a back-alley fight. I am still sore even this morning.

In spite of this pain, I am going back again on Monday because I know I need to get this worked out to help me with some issues I am having in my arms. So, this is a time when I can truly be thankful for the pain, because I know it will lead to good.

In relation to life I suppose there are a few parallels:
1. If we have pain in our life, it will lead to good if we love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)
2. To get where we need to go, we oftentimes will need to fight through unpleasantness and persevere (Hebrews 10:36)
3. Like I posted about yesterday, our pain could be God preparing us to minister to others who will go through similar pain (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Pain's Purpose


On Sunday, our pastor delivered a message about how God can, and often, uses our pain from our past to help others who are going through some tough times in their lives. During his sermon he said, "There is a purpose behind your pain. Your greatest contribution or ministry will probably not come from your strengths. It will come from your struggles."

As I reflected on my life, I had to agree with him. One of the toughest periods of my life was when I was VP of Sales for a company in town. I had a boss who was an absolute tyrant. He would rant, rave and cuss at me and others. He would throw things. He even once ripped the thermostat off the wall when he was hot. It was an extremely unhealthy environment. I was stressed beyond the max and it impacted every area of my life, and maybe most of all my family.

However, looking back on this I am so thankful that God placed my boss in my life. While it was brutal, it led to me writing the book Bleedership, Biblical First-Aid for Leaders in which I contrast my boss' leadership style with that of the great leaders in the Bible. As a result of that, the trajectory of my life has been changed drastically. I know that through my tough times there are some people who have been helped.

If you are going through a period of difficulty, know that God is preparing you for ministry, to impact others. God never wastes a hurt!

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Monday, November 23, 2009

Bad Things Happen

Tate Forcier loses a fumble in the end-zone early in the game resulting in a Buckeye touchdown

On Saturday, my son and I took the 45 minute trip north to Ann Arbor to watch The Game, Ohio State vs. Michigan in what most say is the greatest rivalry in all of sports.

Being Buckeyes, Robbie and I were thrilled with the 21-10 Ohio State victory, their sixth in a row over the Wolverines. Ohio State was able to come up with five turnovers, all from Michigan's quarterback, Tate Forcier.

On Sunday, we watched the recording of the ABC telecast. Matt Millen who was providing color commentary for the game said this of Forcier, "Bad things happen to all players. It's how you react that matters."

So true.

A friend of mine once asked me, "If someone spits on you does that make you mad?"

I said, "Absolutely."

He said, "No it doesn't. It makes you wet. It's your choice to be mad."

He had me. He was right.

We are all going to face challenges and obstacles in this life. How we respond to them will determine the type of person we will become.

"I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Jesus in John 16:33

Friday, November 20, 2009

The Heart of a Champion

Stefanie Spielman and her family on the field at halftime of a game in September.
Stefanie Spielman, wife of OSU linbacker great, Chris Spielman passed away yesterday after a lengthy bout with cancer. This is very sad for the Buckeye Nation but it is also something worth celebrating.

Chris said this in an article which appeared today in the Columbus Dispatch, "Stefanie has gone home to be with the Lord," he said. "For that, we celebrate, but with broken hearts. I want to thank everyone for their support. ... Together, with your help, hopefully we made a difference in this fight."

When they received the news, they decided to use this for good. She said this shortly after her diagnosis, "I know there's a reason God gave me breast cancer, and I'm supposed to do something with it," she said that year.

This family is an inspiration to me in many ways and as I have read more about Stefanie, my admiration for her has grown. You can get a glimpse of her faith and positive spirit in these words: "I do not feel sorry for myself. I do not wish this would have happened to anyone else," she wrote on July 11, 1998. "I pray I grow stronger with each passing day. I cannot let this get the best of me, and I will not let this ruin the rest of my life -- no matter how long it is."

What a great example of how to live. Prayers to the Spielman family!

Go Bucks!


We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:3b-5

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The Right To Lead

John Maxwell is one of my favorite leadership authors. He has a great knack for making the complex easy to understand and remember. This segment from his book, The Right to Lead is no different:

WHAT GIVES A MAN OR WOMAN THE RIGHT TO LEAD?

It certainly isn't gained by election or appointment. Having position, title, rank, or degrees doesn't qualify anyone to lead other people. And the ability doesn't come automatically from age or experience, either. No, it would be accurate to say that no one can be given the right to lead. The right to lead can only be earned. And that takes time.

The Kind of Leader Others Want to Follow
The key to becoming an effective leader is not to focus on making other people follow, but on making yourself the kind of person they want to follow. You must become someone others can trust to take them where they want to go. As you prepare yourself to become a better leader, use the following guidelines to help you grow:

1. Let go of your ego.
The truly great leaders are not in leadership for personal gain. They lead in order to serve other people. Perhaps that is why Lawrence D. Bell remarked, "Show me a man who cannot bother to do little things, and I'll show you a man who cannot be trusted to do big things."

2. Become a good follower first.
Rare is the effective leader who didn't learn to become a good follower first. That is why a leadership institution such as the United States Military Academy teaches its officers to become effective followers first - and why West Point has produced more leaders than the Harvard Business School.

3. Build positive relationships.
Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less. That means it is by nature relational. Today's generation of leaders seem particularly aware of this because title and position mean so little to them. They know intuitively that people go along with people they get along with.

4. Work with excellence.
No one respects and follows mediocrity. Leaders who earn the right to lead give their all to what they do. They bring into play not only their skills and talents, but also great passion and hard work. They perform on the highest level of which they are capable.

5. Rely on discipline, not emotion.
Leadership is often easy during the good times. It's when everything seems to be against you - when you're out of energy, and you don't want to lead - that you earn your place as a leader. During every season of life, leaders face crucial moments when they must choose between gearing up or giving up. To make it through those times, rely on the rock of discipline, not the shifting sand of emotion.

6. Make adding value your goal.
When you look at the leaders whose names are revered long after they have finished leading, you find that they were men and women who helped people to live better lives and reach their potential. That is the highest calling of leadership - and its highest value.

7. Give your power away.
One of the ironies of leadership is that you become a better leader by sharing whatever power you have, not by saving it all for yourself. You're meant to be a river, not a reservoir. If you use your power to empower others, your leadership will extend far beyond your grasp.

Good stuff!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Be a Burning Bush



A friend of mine, Brian Keel (CFO of The Toledo Area YMCA), puts out a weekly devotional via email which is excellent. I thought I'd share his from this past week:

The Wind

Probably my favorite shrub is the Euonymus alatus compactus or “burning bush”. During the spring and the summer it appears rather ordinary…just another in a long line of green foliage planted in front of the house. When autumn rolls around the leaves turn a vibrant red; lighting up the whole yard. But every year the same thing happens…we get one of those windy stretches Northwest Ohio is known for and “poof” the leaves are gone in an instant. All that’s left is the empty shell, just a bunch of sticks poking out of the ground.

No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death. Ecclesiastes 8:8

A youth pastor in our area died in his sleep last week at age 40…no apparent health issues… no warning… no anything. I’m sorry to say that I did not know him personally, but I have heard so many wonderful things about him since…even a planned involvement in youth work at one of our YMCA facilities. Solomon sure got it right… “no one has power over the wind….” But we can make sure that we burn a vibrant red while we are here. We have power over our actions, over our words and over the things people might remember us for. We have the power to love as Jesus loved… to feed the hungry, to care for the sick, to clothe the needy.

Make a difference… be a burning bush….

Monday, November 16, 2009

Finding Good in the Bad

In an interesting article in the NY Times, Jeffrey Katzenberg (pictured above), the CEO of DreamWorks Animation shared a few valuable nuggets:

* He learned his most valuable lessons from his worst bosses.
* In regard to leadership in today's world, the most important thing is to make people feel secure.
* In order to be innovative you must take risks. Taking risks means that failure is a possibility so they don't expect that every single thing will be a hit. As a result their employees aren't afraid to make mistakes.
* In leadership respect is so important. Not so much from the followers, but rather from the leader to those he/she is leading.
* One of the most valuable lessons came from being fired from Disney...it opened up all sorts of doors.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Gather Together

I went for a walk late yesterday afternoon through my neighborhood and the neighborhood next door. As I turned a corner I heard what sounded like thousands of birds chirping. I looked around and spotted them all huddled together at the top of a tree. It wasn’t a thousand, but there were at least a hundred up there.

As I walked I thought that it was interesting that I didn’t see one single bird over here and another over there and one behind me. They were all gathered together. Kind of like how we are supposed to be.

1 Peter 5:8 tells us that Satan is like a roaring lion who roams around looking for someone to devour.

On any animal shows I have ever watched, when a predator (like a lion) is hunting it usually goes after the prey which is by itself. Those who are in a pack are much more difficult to get to.

When things are not going well for us we have a natural tendency to withdraw and be by ourselves until the storm blows over. Well, this is exactly what Satan wants. He wants us to be alone so that he can act like the lion on the animal shows and devour us.

Hebrews 10:25a says, “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another…”

So gathering together is a lot more than just socializing. It is meant to protect us and to refuel our tanks, especially when we are down. So do that and encourage someone while you’re at it!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Lessons From The Wizard Of Oz

I received an email this morning with this short article about the Wizard of Oz from Will Craig, who writes about coaching others:

Most of us are familiar with the story of Dorothy and the friends she meets on her way to find the Wizard. The Scarecrow who felt he lacked a brain; the Tin Man who didn’t think he had a heart; and the Cowardly Lion who wished he had courage.

The Wizard (a man whose heart was in the right place but whose ethics needed some work) actually exercised some effective coaching skills at the end of the story.

For each of Dorothy’s three friends, he fostered a sense of belief that they, indeed, had those things they sought so desperately. He convinced the Scarecrow he was smart by giving him a diploma. The Tin Woodsman received his gift from the Wizard and knew he now had a heart because it was breaking. The Cowardly Lion became instantly courageous when he received his medal for bravery.

He then goes on in the article to talk about the power of believing in yourself. While that may be important, I believe there is an even more important lesson for each of us here.

The Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion all were down UNTIL someone spoke words of encouragement to them. It was that encouragement which lifted them up and allowed them to begin to believe in themselves.

This is true of many around us. They could be hurting and not even show it. Your encouragement could be exactly what they need to lift them up above the fog. So why not encourage someone today!

But encourage one another daily.
Hebrews 3:13a

Monday, November 09, 2009

Servant Leadership

Earlier this football season, I put up a post about Pete Carroll, USC's charismatic football coach, and how he kept his team loose before their big game against Ohio State.

Well, it appears he does some other things that many don't know about which also help him in his ability to be a great leader. He is a servant of others. Tim Moore from the Audience Development Group, wrote the following piece that I hope you find as interesting as I did:

It's eight at night. A reporter from LA Magazine is camped in Pete Carroll's office; the apex of Trojan football legacy on the USC campus. Suddenly Carroll ends the dialog and says, "I have to be somewhere." The writer asks if he can come along but is summarily refused.

"Absolutely not," says Carroll. The reporter asks again. With the critical eye of Joe Stalin, Carroll hesitates, acquiesces, and tells the writer he'd better change apparel. The USC coach rummages through a closet and flings a polo at the writer like a dished-off shovel pass. "Put this on," he says. The reporter asks, "How come?" Carroll tells the reporter that he might get shot wearing the bright blue. From there the writer struggles to keep up: an animated walk across campus to a waiting van, then to South Central Los Angeles. He tells J.R. Moehringer, now riding shotgun, to lose his notebook. There will be no quotations or formal written summary as it might make the people they'll be talking to anxious.

First stop, a group of guys on the street: maybe stoned, maybe drunk and possibly armed but to a person, stunned at who is approaching them. Carroll shakes hands, starts talking about football and the tension in the air falls away. They talk about their lives, the police, and other things...a car pulls up. Someone's mother, back from the store. Pete Carroll waves then helps her with groceries, carrying multiple bags. This can't be, she thinks; coach of the tightest, toughest, hippest college football team in the nation, a late night bag-boy? The scene is repeated with several other stops with similar reaction from stunned partisans of the night, until sometime after midnight they head for the obscure van and back to campus.

Carroll explains he feels this ritual is important, necessary in fact, to let these people know someone cares about them and has them in mind. He has found jobs for at least 40 men in these neighborhoods. On this night an emotional young man who thanks Carroll for coming out, places a bracelet on the coach's wrist; something he made and a symbol of solidarity.

Carroll admits few USC fans know of this routine. His wife, Glena, laughs and admits it worried her in earlier times, but not now. She tells LA Magazine writer J. R. Moehringer she's okay with it but drew the line on Baghdad.

If you're a UCLA or Cal fan, you've probably already made up your mind about Pete Carroll and the USC Trojans: arrogant, almost always a notch better, and so damn loose and cocky on the sidelines. If, however, you're ever invited on one of Carroll's after dark recon missions, you might just accept the premise that things are seldom as they appear. Pete Carroll defies the odds on and off the field, just as his boyish never-change-looks defy time. He keeps fun in the game and his players loose and unafraid. Once a card-carrying member of the NFL, he was only a number. Upon becoming the main man of Troy, Carroll became one the most prolific people in all of sports, and Trojan dominance of college football is evidence.

For those of us reaching for significance as leaders in a relatively short life, we'd do well to ask to ride shotgun in South Central Los Angeles with Carroll some night. If not, as an option spend 3 hours watching a Southern Cal game as Carroll strides the sideline in high animation, grinning ear-to-ear, patting players on the shoulders, having the time of his life. That's leadership. That's fun.

Friday, November 06, 2009

How Can I Forgive?

Yesterday, I wrote about a story that Ed Laymance included in his eBook, Not Against Flesh and Blood, which showed how forgiving others can give us true freedom.

So how can you do this, especially if someone has hurt you deeply?

Laymance gives the following steps in his book:

1. Begin by asking God to bring to mind anyone you need to forgive. Ask yourself, "Is there anyone, living or dead that I feel owes me something? Am I holding a grudge or bitterness against someone? do I carry disappointment with me? Is there anyone, living or dead, who hurt me or harmed me and I'm wearing that hurt?"

2. On a pad of paper make a list of the names God brings to mind. Don't be surprised if your name is on the list. You may be carrying guilt or shame for something you allowed. Don't be surprised if God's name is on the list. You may be confused, angry, or hurt that God allowed bad things to happen to you or someone you love. After five to ten minutes, you will have a list.

3. Tear off that page and set it aside. Start with any name on your list and put that name at the top of a clean sheet of paper. Then ask God to show you what it is about this person that you need to release.

4. Write down everything that comes to mind. This is not a novel, so you need not start at the beginning of the relationship and work forward. One thought will connect with another. Write what comes. Use words, phrases, paragraphs, and symbols--however you want to do this. This is for no one's eyes but yours, so be brutally honest. Hold nothing back.

5. some of what you write will be connected to other people on your list. Just make a note by their name; you will add this to their list later. Keep on task with one person at a time.

6. This is pretty emotional stuff, so you will need to take an occasional break. Take a walk, blow your nose, hit a pillow, get a drink--but stay with it until you feel you are done.

7. What you're going to do next may seem silly or stupid. do it anyway. This is a very important step. Make sure you are alone and no one can hear you. Imagine the person you've been writing about is sitting in a chair close by. You need to stand, so you can walk around. I want you to see yourself as a judge. What you have written is a list of indictments against that person. As judge, read out loud everything you've written; with whatever emotions you feel; using whatever words and volume you need to use. This is "no holds barred", "up close and personal", "in the face", "full force"! Don't be "Christian" or "appropriate". Let 'em have it! Include any additional things that come to mind. Say exactly what you feel.

8. Some of what you've written only needs to be said once. Some of what you've written needs to be said more than once. Say what you've written until it no longer needs to be said--a hundred times if necessary. One of the reasons you've been carrying this stuff is because it needed to be said, and you needed hear yourself say it - without debate, rebuttal, excuse, or explanation from the one who hurt you.

9. When you get to the last word on the last page, having expressed all emotions you needed to express, as judge, declare out loud, "Guilty as charged!"

10. Then as judge, declare out loud, "Case dismissed!"

11. Next, pray, "Holy Father, I do not feel like dismissing this (because you don't!), but I don't want to be controlled by this way any longer. I choose to forgive and release it to you. I choose to "flush". Now, help me walk away from how I feel and enjoy the sweet smell of freedom! Amen."

12. Destroy what you've written as a physical representation to yourself that the case has been dismissed. Dig a hole and bury it, burn it, shred it, whatever feels good. One person I helped said when they were finished with everyone on their list, in addition to destroying what they had written, they wrote each name on an individual sheet of toilet paper and flushed each one. What a great idea!

13. Repeat this process until you have an "emotional funeral" for everyone on your list. Don't stop until you have flushed everything. One inch of raw sewage in the house is better than six inches, but the house still stinks!

Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.
Luke 11:4

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Forgive and be Free

I am reading an interesting e-Book written by Ed Laymance titled, Not Against Flesh and Blood.

In one section of the book he reminds the reader of the importance of forgiving others. This is a story he told which illustrates this principle very well:

A woman was abducted, raped, robbed, shot and left for dead. When the abductor shot her he put a gun to her head intending instant death. She jerked at the last moment. The bullet went sideways. He ran off and was never found. She survived the attach and endured months of surgeries and rehab.

She was interviewed by a reporter about three to four years after the attach. In the middle of the interview the reporter commented how she must really hate the man that put her through all this. Her response was, "I once did, but not any more." When the reporter asked for an explanation she replied, "For a long time I was consumed with revenge and justice. I wanted him caught. I wanted him to endure all the pain and suffering he had inflicted on me. I could think of nothing else. Them one day it occurred to me. That man robbed me of one night of my life. I decided I was not going to give him one more day!"

What great words! We must remember, unforgiveness can fester inside of us and actually cause us to be ill. When we forgive, we are actually setting ourselves free!

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Matthew 6:14

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

I Hate My Job!

I received this article in an email the other day from my friend, Doug Spada, president of WorkLife, an incredible organization which helps the local church to connect the dots when it comes to faith in the workplace. If you have ever hated your job, this is for you:

The American Workplace Survey, conducted by Harris Interactive this month found that almost half (48%) of workers are not satisfied with the relationship they have with their boss, and the majority (59%) of workers are not satisfied with the level of support they receive from their colleagues. Seventy-seven percent are not satisfied with the strategy and vision of the company and its leadership. Click here for full article.

Even in these challenging time where having a job is a blessing, a recent survey of a major municipality's employees reflected that more than 60% were unhappy in their work. One employee was quoted, "I feel miserable. My morale is lower than it's ever been. It has been difficult to even come to work." Click for survey results. (2009 Employee Morale Survey - Baltimore Dept of Public Works)

I am quite certain that some of you have a job you really hate. If you could, you would quit tomorrow but you feel like you're in a prison because you need this job, you've got time invested in it, you're not sure you could find another one, but you hate your job. If you're having those kinds of problems, I strongly urge you to read on because the Bible has some good ideas for you.


As I travel around the country talking to people, it seems to me that more people are discontent with their jobs than ever before. Undoubtedly the economic climate has a lot to do with that, since jobs are difficult to find and many feel trapped in their jobs. Also, workloads seem to be much higher, and the loyalty between employees and employers seems much lower. So, if you find yourself in a job you really don't like, you've got company.

I can understand your feelings, because I've had a job or two like that myself. But the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians:...I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation....I can do everything through him who gives me strength (Phil. 4:11-13).

So, I want to talk about how to be content in a job you hate. You know, when you and I learn this secret of being content, as Paul learned it, we can't lose because our fulfillment and satisfaction are not based on circumstances - not based on whether we have a terrific job that we love, or one that we hate!

Keep in mind that Paul had to learn this technique of being content, and so do you and I. So, are you willing to enroll in Contentment 101, and learn how to be content in your job? That's where it begins. If you're not willing to learn to be content, of course, you never will learn it.

If you insist on saying, "I hate this job, I refuse to change my attitude toward this job, I could never be content with this job and furthermore I don't want to be content with it," then you've already prevented God from changing you and giving you a new heart and a new attitude.

First of all, you have to give up your rights. Most of us think things like, "I don't deserve this job," or "I deserve to have a fulfilling job," or "It's not right that I have to work at a job that doesn't utilize my talents," or "I can't be expected to endure the kind of treatment I get on my job." That's just our normal selfish nature, which has been fed and fired up by our humanistic society, teaching us "We have our rights."

Dear friend, if you want to be a contented person, you must first of all tell God that you recognize you have no rights to all that you think you have a right to. If you're a child of God, you belong to Him and He is the Master. Are you willing to give up your "rights" to have the job you want, and to allow yourself to be contented where you are? That is step one in being content in a job you hate.

Maybe you're thinking, "Well, why would God punish me with a job like this?" Let me assure you that God is not trying to make your life miserable. Just the opposite - He has plans for you that are good. But He can't work those plans for you until you surrender your rights to Him. Most of the time God does not deliver us from difficult situations until we have learned to be content and to accept them. That is how we learn to trust God and have faith in Him, and without faith it's impossible to please God.

So, step one in being content in a job you hate is to give up your rights for the perfect job and tell God you are willing to stay there and give Him control.

Monday, November 02, 2009

Encouragement

"You can be better than me." Those were the words of former Ohio State quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith to current Buckeye quarterback, Terrelle Pryor.

In a nice article in the Toledo Blade last Friday, it was revealed that Smith has reached out to the young Pryor to help him to deal with his many critics. Two weeks prior, Terrelle had turned the ball over four times in an upset loss to the Purdue Boilermakers and he was the subject of much criticism in Columbus and beyond.

In reading the article, it sounded like Pryor is very appreciative of the kind words of Smith. Based on his solid performance one game later against the Minnesota Golden Gophers, Smith's words might have been just what Pryor needed.

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.
1 Thessalonians 5:11a

Friday, October 30, 2009

Cut From The Team

My 13 year-old son, Robbie spent the past two afternoons sweating with 51 other 8th grade boys trying out for their school's basketball team. I was able to watch the last half hour of both days of tryouts.

It quickly became apparent to me that Robbie would not be making the team. Many of the kids were well ahead of him in their ability and knowledge of the game.

As I watched him though, I was impressed, because he gave it everything he had. He probably knew that he was not going to make it. However, he was running hard and making great V-cuts (a move used to get open on offense). These were things that most of the other kids were not doing.

In spite of his efforts, Robbie did not make the team.

However, I am extremely proud of my son. He tried. And he tried with all his heart. What more can you ask for?

I am also proud of the way he handled hearing the news that he would not be on the team. When I asked him what his thoughts were, he replied, "I'm disappointed but I'll just have to try again next year."


Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Colossians 3:23-24

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Axioms for Life


I just finished watching the above movie. I have seen this before but, for some reason, I liked it more this time than ever before. Maybe it was because I didn't feel rushed while watching it and I could really think about what was being said.

Included in this short movie are some really good quotes and axioms for life. Do yourself a favor and invest three and a half minutes in this.

Monday, October 26, 2009

Passion

Last night, my family and I went to see the David Crowder Band (pictured above) in concert at a church north of Detroit. They were fantastic!

There were a couple of warm up acts before they performed, Seabird and Danyew. They were also very good.

Although I liked Danyew, they were probably my least favorite of the three. Despite that, I found myself drawn to one of their band members more than any of the other performers last night There were only two members in Danyew: one sang and played the guitar while the other played drums and generally pounded on anything that was around him. I found myself focusing on the drummer which I thought was odd, as most times I primarily watch the lead singer.

I think I spent more time watching the drummer because of the passion and intensity with which he performed. Someone performing with passion is very magnetic to me whether they are on stage, being a parent or working in an office.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.
Colossians 3:23

Friday, October 23, 2009

Using Bad For Good

Chris Spielman shows his college football hall of fame plaque awarded to him on
Sept. 5 at Ohio State to his wife, Stefanie.
His four children and Ohio State great Archie Griffin look on.

Chris Spielman is one of my favorite Ohio State football players. He was a guy who gave his all on every play. The team seemed to feed off of his intensity. Without question, he is one of the greatest linebackers ever to wear the scarlet and gray. He also was a tremendous player in the NFL for many years.

However, I gained even more respect for him when, in 1998 after 10 seasons in the NFL, he put his career on hold to be at his wife, Stefanie's side as she began her battle against breast cancer. I don't think many men would have chosen to do that. What a great example.

I was at the game on September 5th of this year in which Chris' induction into the College Football Hall of Fame was celebrated (pictured above). I didn't realize that Stefanie was sick again until I saw her in a wheel chair.

A week or so ago I saw an article online which appeared in the Canton Rep in which they shared a little about their struggle. The last section of the article focused on their Christian faith and how that has gotten them through some difficult times. This same article appeared in our local paper a couple of days ago, only they decided to omit the entire section about their faith. Sad.

This quote was contained in that section:

Their journey together has been about football and fame, but it also has been about strength, courage and keeping things in perspective.

“I think we’ve been given certain assignments in life,” he said. “I like to think we’ve done the best we could for (cancer survivors) in service as opposed to shutting down. Hopefully, we’ve been able to make a difference with the monies raised and the people we met and talk to that our experience can help in a small way.

“This is an honorable and humbling journey we’ve been on. It’s something that is way bigger than being a football guy.”


What struck me as I read this article was they way they have used this as a positive thing. The Speilmans have used their celebrity and influence as a platform to raise millions of dollars for cancer research. But they have done so much more than that...they have given hope to many, many people who are dealing with tough circumstances in their own lives. What an incredible and honorable thing.

"And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
Esther 4:14b

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Suspended

My 13 year-old son Robbie, came home sobbing from school on Monday. It seems that someone in gym class came up behind him and choked him.

Later in the day I found out what led up to that. This kid was teasing Robbie and calling him names and not using nice language. Robbie said he was just ignoring it until after they ran the one mile run. Robbie said this other kid was teasing him about how slow he ran and started with more name calling. Robbie said he had had enough so he pushed him. That is when the other kid grabbed Robbie from behind in a choke hold.

Yesterday, the assistant principal talked to all the parties involved. Robbie ended up being suspended for a day because he pushed the other boy. The other kid was suspended for the remainder of this week. While I don't like my son being suspended, I think this is pretty fair.

I asked Robbie if being choked like that hurt. He said, "Yes, but not as much as being teased in front of everyone."

My heart ached for him and still does. This is more proof that our words are very powerful. They have the power to build others up or to tear them down.

The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Proverbs 18:21

Monday, October 19, 2009

Nature's Beauty

I have been mesmerized while driving around the past couple of weeks by the leaves in our area. They have been spectacular!

While riding with Connie, my wife, this weekend I asked, "Why don't leaves just fall to the ground without changing color? I mean, it doesn't seem like there is any reason they would need to change colors."

Connie said, "Maybe this is just one of the ways that God shows his love for us. Maybe He just wants to do this to the trees for our enjoyment and to remind us of Him."

I like that answer and that's what I'm going with! Now when I look at the trees it gives me another reason to give thanks to my Heavenly Father.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Fear Not!


Check out this 92 year old woman, Pauline Jacoby...she is incredible.

What can we learn from her?

1. There is no need to fear, Jesus is with us and will protect us when we call on Him.
2. God's word is an extremely effective weapon. No guns or pepper spray needed.
3. Forgiveness is very powerful.
4. Praying for others can immediately soften their hearts.
5. Humility is very refreshing.
6. God can use any situation to impact someone's life.

Way to go Pauline!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

The Power of Community

As many of you know, I lead an organization in the Toledo area called Truth At Work. We work with Christian business leaders to help them to grow their organizations in a God-honoring way, while at the same time helping them to grow personally and spiritually.

This is all done through four hour long monthly roundtable meetings in which 12-15 peers act as a board of advisers to one another. As a result of these meetings many ideas are developed both on the business and personal side of things.

The thing that has become apparent to me over this past year is the incredible power of community. When things are tough, as they are now in our economy, our natural tendency is to hole up by ourselves to weather the storm. That is not what God wants from us. He wants us to do life together because he knows we need the encouragement. The way I look at it, life is like this formula:

Me + Community + God = unlimited potential

In the above video, Lynn Fruth shares that he pays a substantial sum of money each month to be a part of this group...and he'd pay ten times that amount because of what he gets out of it! I hope this encourages you to surround yourself with other Christ-centered individuals.

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Ecclesiastes 4:12