Ministers are notoriously overburdened, but handling our load may be hampered by ingrained work habits that do not serve us well. In this article Michael Hyatt, Chairman of Thomas Nelson Publishers, explains how he gets more done in less time by following simple rules for work. (Photo by BinaryApe, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
It doesn’t take much to make a difference. Here’s a short YouTube video about a group that gave backpacks filled with useful things to homeless people. Watch what happens. Giving is a two-way street; the giver often receives more in return. (Photo by Ed Yourdon, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
Last year, 40 percent of Americans planned to make resolutions on Jan. 1. As you welcome 2014 and plan to achieve those big goals of yours, don’t panic. Scranton University psychology professor John Norcross offers suggestions for following through on your New Year’s resolutions. From USA Today. (Photo by Allan Chatto, used by Creative Commons […]
Resolved to be less materialistic in 2014? Check out this short video from The Center for a New American Dream. You’ll be glad you did! (Photo: 401(K)2013, Creative Commons)
Why, as human beings, do we tend toward consumerism and often fail to be good stewards of the resources we have on loan from God? Here’s an interesting article delving into some of the science behind the phenomenon. Click here to read the article. (Photo by Mitch Altman, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
There’s no season quite so full of wild abundance as the Christmas season. It’s a joyful, exuberant time, full of music, family, parties, good food, and friends. But every Christian steward knows that there’s a shadow side to abundance, particularly material abundance, which brings with it challenges. Amid the joy of Christmas, a good steward ponders these challenges. (Photo by Mike Fleming, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
Why ask kids to give? Shouldn’t they be saving for college? Isn’t that just taking money from their parents? What if they don’t really have any money? These are common responses to the idea that kids should be generous. Truth is, there are good reasons. From ParentFurther. (Photo by Kat, used by Creative Commons license)
So, you consider yourself an environmentalist Christian? Well, take the plunge! This personal earthkeeping covenant from Lutherans Restoring Creation will outline specific actions you can take in your daily life to be a “green” (or “greener) disciple. Why not challenge your study or youth group? )Photo by dizfunkshinal, used by creative commons license http://www.flickr.com/photos/dizfunk/)
Cultivating an “attitude of gratitude” has been linked to better health, sounder sleep, less anxiety and depression, higher long-term satisfaction with life and kinder behavior toward others, including romantic partners. But what if you’re not the grateful sort? Here’s some helpful advice! (Photo by redwinegums, used by Creative Commons license)
Should you talk about money at Christmas? Why not? It seems that everybody else in the culture sure is. Here is some inspiration: Sermon Central will let you see four Christmas stewardship sermons for free. (Photo by Picsbyclive, used by Creative Commons license)
