Shame is embedded in everyday talk, making us feel uncomfortable without knowing why. Here’s how to recognize and deal with shame for better conversations.
Collection of Blog Posts - Small Groups, Bible Study, Community, and Transformation
Welcome to the Working to Live Differently blog on finding, becoming, and living in Christian community. My goal is to show how to encourage personal and community growth through a process that looks like this:
- share honestly with yourself, God, and other people
- connect with God and people
- build and become part of a group with a sense of belonging
- learn and grow through Bible study and Bible doing
- inspire others and be inspired
- share your experiences (successes and failures) to continue the process of connecting, belonging, and growing
Blog posts include how-to articles and reflections on leading small groups, developing friendships, building community, studying the Bible, and achieving personal and group goals. I also write on developing physical endurance, which I believe offers insights into spiritual endurance and perseverance while giving us a way to connect with people, God, and ourselves.
On Belonging within a Christian Community: Lessons from Real Life and the Book of Acts
Christian community can be experienced in real life as described in the book of Acts. Here are elements to consider and pursue.
How to Prioritize Reconciliation
Jesus calls us to be reconciled with our brothers and sisters. Here’s how I came to prioritize reconciliation over my pride and honor.
How to Be a Saint without Being Perfect
Have you ever noticed that funerals and celebrations of life often paint a portrait of perfection, almost saintlike? Here’s a different way of thinking about sainthood.
“When Did We See You?” Thoughts On Noticing and Responding
Jesus calls us to take care of our brothers and sisters when they’re hungry and thirsty or have other needs. If taking care of others doesn’t happen reflexively, here’s how Jesus’s love can flow through me more naturally.
Grace and Generosity Aren’t Fair and That’s Good
Practical understanding of grace means accepting generosity, even when it seems or looks unfair.