In the heart of the first and second chapters of Titus, it’s clear that Paul pens his words with a keen awareness of pastors and elders. It’s striking, then, to realize that this message isn’t exclusive to them. It is meant for you, and yes, even for me. And why is that? Because we are all leaders in one way or another. Perhaps you guide women through Bible studies, or you share the word of God through a blog. Maybe you impart wisdom during Sunday School or offer life’s lessons to your children in the comfort of your home. In any of these roles, it’s likely that someone, somewhere, is…

Each time I gather the courage to step out in faith and pursue my calling, a little voice chimes in to tell me I can’t. “You can’t lead that Bible study, you’re not engaging enough.” “You can’t write that book, you’re not good enough.” “You can’t overcome your past; it will always define you.” “You can’t speak at that meeting, you’ll embarrass yourself.” If I listened to that voice, I would have quit writing a long time ago. I’d be sitting on the couch flipping channels instead of doing the work God has called me to. If I listened to that voice, I’d miss out on an opportunity to be…

My son, Brendan, is an avid runner. Rarely missing a day, he sometimes even goes for two runs. As the saying goes, the more you run, the more you enjoy running, and that certainly seems true for him. Training our body is much like training the soul. The more we walk in God’s will, the more we delight in His path. We all struggle with something; whether it’s holding back our temper, exercising patience, or overcoming a personal challenge, we desperately need God’s wisdom and strength. In Galatians Chapter 5, Paul explains that the flesh is at war with the Spirit, and the flesh desires what opposes the Spirit. But…