If so, check out my latest book: Becoming Barnabas. This would make a great Christmas present. Becoming Barnabas is a book designed for ordinary people– short and eminently readable– that drills down in practical ways on communication skills in the church...
I have a new book out that’s especially geared toward laypeople. Short and readable, Becoming Barnabas zeros in how listening well and asking good questions can help them in all areas of their lives: relationships, groups, and ministries. Imagine what a difference it...
Once we have a clear sense of where we need to grow, now we need a relational context for that growth. There is no substitute for intentional discipleship relationships. During some seasons those are one-on-one relationships. During some seasons they are peer or group...
If we are to practice a kind of discipleship that is truly tailored to the individual, we absolutely need to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Where God is calling one person to focus their growth is not necessarily where he’s calling another to focus. We can...
Every person you coach is different. One important difference is how they process ideas. Some are audio processors. They think best out loud, and talking is the way they process their ideas. As they talk, they gain greater clarity and insight, which then results in...
People can listen to the Holy Spirit better than you think they can. At a recent consultation I did, I started out the way I usually do: meeting with the leaders to unpack their strengths, concerns, and vision. Then I led them into a time of questions and listening to...
I write frequently about the power of listening and asking good questions, especially among ministry leaders. Let’s take a look at one of the more challenging contexts for practicing this skill: the board meeting. Often board meetings consist of each person spouting...
It used to make me so angry when– after I’d spent hours helping someone process whether or not they wanted to embark on a particular journey– they’d show up at the orientation only to say, “Now where is it exactly that we’re going again?” Outwardly I’d...
“Help me understand,” is a great phrase to use in many situations when you want to open the door to meaningful conversations. When you use that phrase, it indicates that you’ve not made a definitive conclusion, but you’re open to learning more. Sometimes this phrase...
