Leadership is everywhere. Regardless of who is present, someone will ultimately take the lead.  I remember years ago, hearing John Maxwell give his simple definition of leadership:  “Leadership is influence.”  The question then, is for whom or to what end is the leadership working?  Philip Nation correctly asserts that the world measures success, therefore leadership, […]

  Philip Nation opens chapter 10 with a reminder that a cosmic spiritual battle is being waged for the souls of men.  For the unbeliever the stakes involve the eternity of his soul.  For the believer, that was settled at the moment of trust in Jesus.  Now, what is at stake is the fruitfulness and […]

The opening paragraph of chapter 9 sets the tone for Philip Nation’s challenge to pick up the towel of servanthood: “The kingdom of God has an upside down way about it. To gain, you must give. To be free, you must be a 
 slave. To be first, you must be last. To be strong, you […]

Chapter 8 of Philip Nation’s book tackles an area of struggle for me and most people I know. Do I see my possessions as both gift and a responsibility to God, or do they control my life? Do I possess them or is that they possess me? The opening question sets up the discussion – […]

  I am reading, reflecting, and writing on the topic of rest as a spiritual discipline from a unique perspective.  Having been granted a 4 month sabbatical by Crossroads Church, received a generous grant to be able to travel, and in spite of all of that, struggling to keep balance in the experience Vanessa and […]