Episodes

  • Living Thanks Out Loud

    Living Thanks Out Loud
    Nov 24 2024
    24_11_23 -Ep.339 - Run With Horses Podcast - Living Thanks Out Loud Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 --- **(28:00)** Today we consider what it means to live a life of Thanksgiving! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(27:00 – 23:00)** Spiritual Habits - Solitude ### **Podcast Segment Outline: Solitude as a Spiritual Discipline** *"Today, we’re diving into the often-overlooked but essential spiritual discipline of solitude."* - Define solitude: *"Solitude is intentionally stepping away from the noise and busyness of life to be alone with God."* - Emphasize its importance: *"Jesus practiced solitude regularly, and it’s a vital habit for spiritual growth."* #### **2. Biblical Examples of Solitude (1 minute)** - **Jesus sought solitude for prayer and renewal**: - *"Mark 1:35 says, ‘Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.’"* - *"Jesus made solitude a priority even amidst a demanding ministry."* - **Solitude before major decisions**: - *"Luke 6:12 tells us, ‘Now it came to pass in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.’"* - *"Before choosing the twelve disciples, Jesus spent the night alone with the Father."* - **In moments of distress**: - *"In Matthew 26:36, Jesus withdraws to the Garden of Gethsemane, telling His disciples, ‘Sit here while I go and pray over there.’"* #### **3. Benefits of Practicing Solitude (1 minute)** - **Connecting with God**: - *"In solitude, we quiet our hearts to hear God’s voice. Psalm 46:10 reminds us, ‘Be still, and know that I am God.’"* - **Strengthening faith**: - "Isaiah 40:31 says, ‘But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.’ Solitude renews our spiritual energy." - **Aligning our will with God’s**: - *"In the silence, we surrender distractions and refocus on God’s purposes for our lives."* 4. Practical Steps for Practicing Solitude - Set aside intentional time: - "Start small—find 10 minutes in your day to unplug from distractions and focus on God." - Choose a quiet location: - "Like Jesus, find a ‘solitary place’ where you can focus." - **Use the time to pray and meditate on Scripture**: - "Bring a verse like Psalm 62:5 – ‘My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him.’" - "Solitude isn’t about escaping life—it’s about stepping away to reconnect with God so we can return refreshed and refocused." - "This week, take a moment of solitude and seek God’s presence. Start with Mark 1:35 as your inspiration." **(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1 Intro: Living as a "new self" is not just an inward change but should be visible to others. Gratitude should be an outpouring of this new life in Christ. 1. Overflowing with PEACE: Gratitude Rooted in Unity (v.15) Paul calls us to let Christ’s peace rule, promoting unity and gratitude within the body of Christ. Application: Gratitude fosters unity, while bitterness and self-centeredness tear it down. What actions come out of a Thankful heart and influence our unity? - promotes humility, readily forgives, lifts up others, etc 2. Overflowing with WISDOM: Gratitude increased as We Grow in the Word (v.16) When the word of Christ dwells richly in us, it transforms our minds, shaping us into grateful, wise people. Application: A heart filled with Scripture is naturally inclined toward thankfulness. The better we know God and understand what He has done for us, the more thankful we will be. 3. Overflowing with PURPOSE: Gratitude expressed in All We Do (v.17) Living in the name of Jesus, on His mission, means every act—big or small—is done with thankfulness to God. - Application: We can honor Christ in all things when we remember that everything we do is an offering of thanks. A person who sees their work, family roles, and daily interactions as opportunities to thank and glorify God. How does a Thankful Heart ...
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    56 mins
  • From Biblical Purpose to Daily Action

    From Biblical Purpose to Daily Action
    Nov 17 2024
    24_11_16 -Ep.338 - Run With Horses Podcast - From Biblical Purpose to Daily Action Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 --- **(28:00)** Today we follow-up on the idea of developing a personal Purpose Statement with a challenge to develop practical, concrete action steps guided by a Vision Statement. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(27:00 – 23:00)** Spiritual Habits - "Investing in Community as a Spiritual Discipline"** **(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1 REVIEW: Why a purpose statement? - spiritual focus, clarity and daily direction. **Why Purpose Matters for Every Believer** - purpose reflects God’s design for each person Ephesians 2:10 -10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. My Purpose Statement– To be a mature disciple of Jesus who makes disciples and gives freely to encourage, support and equip the church on it’s journey to fulfill the Great Commission. - Explain the transition from a Purpose Statement (why we exist and what we aim to accomplish) to a Vision Statement (how we plan to live it out in specific, concrete ways). **What is a Vision Statement? ** - **Definition:** A Vision Statement identifies the specific focus areas and methods by which we live out our purpose, giving practical direction to our mission. - Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” - **Example**: My Vision Statement: My vision is to be meaningfully engaged in discipling men, particularly those in or preparing for ministry, equipping them through intentional, personal relationship and producing resources to encourage and support the spiritual growth of the church. ### 3. **Breaking Down the Vision Statement: Purpose and Action Steps** - **A. Discipling Men** From Biblical Purpose – a disciple who makes discipleship From Personal Vision of Application in My Life – discipling men - **Application**: How to build intentional relationships with men, especially those in or preparing for ministry. - **Examples of Practical Action Steps**: - Establish regular meeting times with specific individuals for mentoring. - Create discipleship materials, books, or guided studies to help facilitate growth. - Join or start a men’s discipleship group. - **B. Equipping through Intentional Relationships** From Biblical Purpose – a disciple who makes discipleship From Personal Vision of Application in My Life – discipling men - **Application**: Invest time and resources into building deep, purposeful relationships. - **Examples of Practical Action Steps**: - Schedule regular one-on-one conversations focused on their spiritual journey. - Offer practical tools, such as a Bible study series or recommended readings. - Set goals with those you’re discipling, checking in periodically for progress. **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** - **C. Producing Resources for the Church** From Biblical Purpose – gives freely to encourage, support and equip the church From Personal Vision of Application in My Life – producing resources to encourage and support the spiritual growth of the church - **Application**: Develop resources that can be used by the wider church community. - **Examples of Practical Action Steps**: - Write articles, create videos, or design teaching outlines that support spiritual growth. - Collaborate with church leaders on curriculum for small groups or Bible studies. - Share resources on a website, podcast, or social media to reach a broader audience. ### 4. **Maintaining Focus and Adaptability** - **Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” - **Discussion**: How do you Stay focused on your vision even when challenges arise? Both statements written in the front of my ...
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    56 mins
  • Write Your Purpose Statement

    Write Your Purpose Statement
    Nov 10 2024
    24_11_09 -Ep.337 - Run With Horses Podcast - "Write Your Purpose Statement" Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 **(28:00)** Today I want to jump off in a new direction. I have been focusing on the church for months, but today I want to turn to the individual. Do you have a purpose statement? You should, and today I challenge you to write one! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(27:00 – 23:00)** Spiritual Habits - The Power of Prayer **1. Why Prayer is Essential for Discipleship ** - Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Jesus Himself prioritized prayer. - Prayer isn’t a task—it’s a relational practice that deepens intimacy with God and aligns our hearts with His will. **2. The Components of Meaningful Prayer ** - Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” - **Key Components:** - **Praise:** Start by focusing on who God is, acknowledging His greatness. - **Confession:** Bring your sins before God, seeking His forgiveness. - **Thanksgiving:** Recognize God’s faithfulness and blessings. - **Supplication:** Present your requests and intercede for others. - Incorporating these components helps structure prayer and keeps our focus on God’s character, rather than on our needs. **3. Prayer for Strength and Wisdom in Following Christ ** - James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” - Discipleship involves challenges, and prayer for wisdom and strength empowers us to remain steadfast in following Jesus. - Start each day by asking God for guidance and the strength to live out your faith. **4. Building a Consistent Prayer Habit (1 minute)** - 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.” - Intentionally set aside time for prayer. - Start a daily 5-minute prayer time, use a prayer journal, or incorporate prayer breaks throughout the day. Pray AS you go through life each day. **(23:00 – 0:00)* * Why a purpose statement? - spiritual focus, clarity and daily direction. **Why Purpose Matters for Every Believer** - purpose reflects God’s design for each person Ephesians 2:10 -10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. - Aligning personal goals with God’s eternal purpose. - The purpose statement as a tool for living intentionally. **What is a Purpose Statement?** - purpose statement vs. life goals. - A purpose statement as a guiding compass rooted in one’s faith, aiming to glorify God and serve others. **Steps to Create a Personal Purpose Statement** - **STEP 1:** Reflect on Your Relationship with God - Questions to ponder: "How has God worked in my life? What passions or burdens has He placed on my heart?" - Prayer and seeking God’s guidance through scripture. What does Gdo say about who I am and why He made me? - **STEP 2:** Identify Your Unique Gifts and Passions - Understanding spiritual gifts (e.g., Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12) and how they shape our purpose. - Considering talents, interests, and experiences God has given. ### STEP 3: Clarify Your Mission Ground it in the priorities God gives us through Scripture. While each believer’s purpose will be unique, Scripture clearly defines the overarching mission and priorities that all Christians share. These biblical priorities serve as guiding principles for crafting a personal purpose statement that aligns with God’s will and advances Jesus’ mission. #### **A. The Great Commandment: Loving God and Loving Others** - ** Matthew 22:37-39 – “37 Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” - **Practical:** When clarifying your mission, consider how you will reflect love for God in your life through prayer, worship, and obedience....
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    56 mins
  • Calling and Equipping Disciple Makers

    Calling and Equipping Disciple Makers
    Nov 2 2024
    24_11_02 -Ep.336 - Run With Horses Podcast - Calling and Equipping Disciple Makers Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 **(28:00)** I have been focusing on the church and a discipleship pathway for a few months now. Today I want to circle back to a key point. We’re remembering why churches must prioritize training disciple makers, ensuring that each member is both equipped and encouraged to engage in making disciples. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(27:00 – 23:00)** Spiritual Habits - Daily Devotions** - **Key Passage**: Psalm 1:1-3 - 1Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; 2But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. 3He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper. Highlights the strength and fruitfulness of those who meditate on God’s Word daily. A disciple maker builds a strong foundation on God's Word. - **Building Daily Devotional Habits:** Just as physical food sustains our bodies, daily time in Scripture and prayer nourishes our spirits. Discipline is required, but the rewards are life-giving. - **Practical Tips**: Find a consistent time, place, plan and method that work for you—whether journaling, guided reading, Chapter a day or praying through Scripture. Just do it. **(23:00 – 0:00)* * The Church’s Mission to Train Disciple Makers** - **Defining the Church’s Role in Discipleship**: The church isn't just a gathering place; it’s a training ground. We’re called to move beyond simply teaching about discipleship to actively making disciple-makers. - ##**Key Goals in Disciple-Maker Training**: - **Mature, Self-Feeding Believers**: Equip members to study Scripture and grow spiritually on their own. This is a critical step if they are to teach others. Heb. 5:12 - 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. 13 For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. - **Everyday Missionaries**: Members should be able to share their faith naturally within their own circles—family, workplace, and community. Acts 1:8 - 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” - **Trained Disciple-Makers**: We aim to cultivate disciple-makers, not just attendees, with hearts prepared to replicate the faith. Matt 28:18-20 - 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” - **Pastors, Church Leaders, and Missionaries**: As God leads, some will be called to new roles in leadership and church planting, supporting disciple-making movements in other communities. ## The Church needs an Intentional Process - **Engage, Connect, Equip, Release Discipleship Framework**: Revisit the pathway and its critical role in building disciple-makers ready to serve both within the church and beyond. Not THE way, A way. Every church needs to be intentional about carrying out the mission of Jesus. ##**Examples of Disciple-Making in Action**: - **Sunday School Reimagined**: What would a disciple-making approach look like? From intentional mentoring to encouraging members to reach others personally. - **Training and Support from the Church**: Weekly large gatherings are more than services; they’re opportunities for mutual encouragement, skill-building, and strategic equipping. -**Smaller groups provide ongoing accountability and support in life and ministry**:...
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    56 mins
  • The Challenge of Shepherding a Church Part 2

    The Challenge of Shepherding a Church Part 2
    Oct 26 2024
    24_10_26 -Ep.335 - Run With Horses Podcast - The Challenge of Shepherding a Church Part 2 Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 ***(28:00)*** END ***(27:00)*** I have been talking about the church and how we can develop an intentional process to live out out purpose in the world. Today, I want to focus on the role of the pastor in all of this. What a big job! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! If you are new to the show, you can find our past shows on our website, runwithhorses.net. I have spent several weeks focusing on a definition of the church and the current discussion about a discipleship pathway is best understood in the context of our broader look at the church. If you have been enjoying the show, I would appreciate it if you would leave a review wherever you are listening! And as always, your questions, comments and feedback are welcome. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net. And now, on with the show... ***(27:00) ***END***(23:00)**** Habits – Personal Humility and Teachability • Habit: Maintain a posture of humility, being teachable and open to correction and growth. • Biblical Basis: "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." (James 4:10) Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. • Why It’s Important: Pride can hinder spiritual growth and effectiveness in discipling others. Humility allows the disciple maker to continue growing and learning. Prides keeps you at the center, Humilty helps keep Jesus at the center. ***(23:00)***END***(0:00) Shepherding and equipping a church for ministry requires a lot from a pastor. 1. **Spiritual Leadership** - **Biblical Knowledge****Prayer Life****Discernment** 2. **Preaching and Teaching** - **Effective Communication****Teaching Skills** 3. **Relational Skills** - **Empathy and Compassion****Conflict Resolution****Mentoring and Discipleship** 4. **Leadership and Vision Casting** - **Visionary Leadership****Decision-Making and Strategy****Delegation** 5. **Equipping and Empowering** - **Recognizing Gifts in Others****Training and Development****Empowerment – give authority away to others** 6. **Administration and Organization** - **Organizational Skills****Team Building****Budgeting and Stewardship** 7. **Emotional Intelligence** - **Self-Awareness****Ability to read the room****Resilience** 8. **Counseling and Pastoral Care** - **Counseling Skills****Crisis Management** 9. **Cultural Awareness and Engagement** - **Cultural Sensitivity**: Churches are often diverse in terms of culture, background, and socioeconomic status. A pastor must be culturally aware and sensitive, able to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. - **Community Engagement**: Pastors should have a heart for the local community and a strategy for how the church can serve outside its walls. Engaging with local needs and being a visible presence in the community helps fulfill the church’s mission. 10. **Adaptability and Lifelong Learning** - **Adaptability**: The church and broader culture are always changing. Pastors must be flexible, able to adapt their leadership and ministry approaches to meet new challenges, such as changes in technology, social issues, or generational shifts. - **Continual Growth**: Great pastors are lifelong learners, committed to their own spiritual, intellectual, and professional growth. Attending conferences, pursuing theological education, or engaging with mentors helps pastors stay sharp and effective in their ministry. 11. **Personal Integrity and Character** - **Moral Integrity**: Above all, pastors need to model Christlike character, demonstrating integrity, humility, and faithfulness in their personal and professional lives. Trust is central to leadership, and integrity is foundational to building that trust. - **Servant-Heartedness**: Pastors should approach their leadership role with humility and a desire to serve others, following the example of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (...
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    55 mins
  • The Challenge of Shepherding a Church Part 1

    The Challenge of Shepherding a Church Part 1
    Oct 19 2024
    24_10_19 -Ep.334 - Run With Horses Podcast - The Challenge of Shepherding a Church Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 ***(28:00)*** END ***(27:00)*** I have been talking about the church and how we can develop an intentional process to live out out purpose in the world. Today, I want to focus on the role of the pastor in all of this. What a big job! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! If you are new to the show, you can find our past shows on our website, runwithhorses.net. I have spent several weeks focusing on a definition of the church and the current discussion about a discipleship pathway is best understood in the context of our broader look at the church. If you have been enjoying the show, I would appreciate it if you would leave a review wherever you are listening! And as always, your questions, comments and feedback are welcome. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net. And now, on with the show... ***(27:00) ***END***(23:00)**** Habits – Life-long Learning Why? If you are still breathing God still has a work for you. Prayer and conversation are the bedrock of our relationships and you can do those throughout your life, often improving with age and expierience. Commit to Lifelong Learning: Develop a strong biblical foundation. Complement formal learning with self-study, reading classic Christian works, and staying updated on current theological discussions. Reading Regularly: Read books that deepen your knowledge of the Bible, theology, church history, ministry, and leadership. Developing a reading habit helps you stay informed and sharp for ministry. Podcasts, conferences, etc. ***(23:00)***END***(0:00) Shepherding and equipping a church for ministry requires a lot from a pastor. The role of a pastor involves spiritual leadership, practical management, relational care, as well as conflict resolution, strategic planning and vision-casting. 1. **Spiritual Leadership** - **Biblical Knowledge**: A deep understanding of Scripture is foundational for guiding others in their faith and making wise, biblically-informed decisions. Pastors must be able to teach and apply God’s Word effectively. - **Prayer Life**: A vibrant prayer life is crucial for a pastor's personal connection with God and for interceding on behalf of the church. This spiritual discipline provides direction and strength in ministry. - **Discernment**: Pastors need the ability to discern God's will in various situations, guiding the church in spiritual matters, resolving conflicts, and making decisions that align with God’s purpose for the congregation. Reliance uppon God to do the work in people’s hearts. 2. **Preaching and Teaching** - **Effective Communication**: Pastors must be skilled communicators, able to convey complex theological concepts in a clear and engaging way. Preaching that is rooted in Scripture, relevant, and inspiring helps build up the church. - **Teaching Skills**: Beyond preaching, pastors often lead Bible studies, classes, or small groups. The ability to teach in a way that encourages learning and spiritual growth is key to equipping others for ministry. 3. **Relational Skills** - **Empathy and Compassion**: Shepherding requires understanding the needs, struggles, and joys of church members. A pastor should be compassionate, able to listen well, and offer support during personal and spiritual challenges. - **Conflict Resolution**: Conflict is inevitable in any community. A pastor needs to mediate effectively, helping to resolve disagreements with wisdom, grace, and patience, while keeping the unity of the church in mind. - **Mentoring and Discipleship**: Pastors should mentor and disciple individuals, helping them grow spiritually and discover their gifts. This requires building personal relationships and investing time in the development of others. 4. **Leadership and Vision Casting** - **Visionary Leadership**: A pastor should have the ability to articulate a clear, God-given vision for the church and inspire others to pursue it. This includes setting direction for ministry initiatives and fostering a culture of service. - **Decision-Making and Strategy**: Along with vision, pastors must develop and execute plans that align with that vision. This includes delegating tasks, organizing ministries, and making sound decisions in challenging ...
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    56 mins
  • Why do people attend church and not join the mission?

    Why do people attend church and not join the mission?
    Oct 12 2024
    24_10_12 -Ep.333 - Run With Horses Podcast - Why do people attend church and not join the mission? Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 ***(28:00)*** END ***(27:00)*** Last week we looked at what it means to be an everyday missionary. This week I want to step back again and look at the big picture and ask. “Why do we have so many attenders who show up each week but have no interest in the mission of Jesus? Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! If you are new to the show, you can find our past shows on our website, runwithhorses.net. I have spent several weeks focusing on a definition of the church and the current discussion about a discipleship pathway is best understood in the context of our broader look at the church. If you have been enjoying the show, I would appreciate it if you would leave a review wherever you are listening! And as always, your questions, comments and feedback are welcome. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net. And now, on with the show... ***(27:00) ***END***(23:00)**** Habits – Exploring and Developing your Spiritual Gifts Romans 12:3-8 Ephesians 4:11-16 Spiritual Gifts Inventory - https://www.lifeway.com/en/articles/women-leadership-spiritual-gifts-growth-service Discover by serving – try new things ***(23:00)***END***(0:00) There are many reasons why church members attend services but don't get involved in ministry. 1. **Lack of Confidence or Feeling Unqualified** 2. **Busy Schedules** 3. **Lack of Awareness of Opportunities** 4. **Fear of Commitment** 5. **Consumer Mentality** 6. **Burnout from Previous Ministry** 7. **Spiritual Immaturity or Lack of Discipleship** 8. **Disconnection from Church Leadership** 9. **Introversion or Social Anxiety** 10. **Misunderstanding of Ministry** ***(00:00)*** END PART 1*** ___________________ ***(27:00) ***BEGIN PART 2 ***END ***(5:00)*** Equipping church members for ministry is a vital role of church leadership. It not only strengthens the body of Christ but also helps members discover and use their spiritual gifts. Here are several key ways church leadership can equip members for ministry: 1. **Teach a Biblical View of Ministry** 2. **Offer Spiritual Gift Assessments** 3. **Provide Training and Resources** 4. **Model Servant Leadership** 5. **Create a Culture of Service** 6. **Communicate Clear Opportunities for Involvement** 7. **Offer Small, Low-Commitment Entry Points** 8. **Mentorship and Coaching** 9. **Empower and Delegate Authority** 10. **Create Teams for Collaboration** 11. **Foster Discipleship and Spiritual Growth** ****(5:00) ***END***( 1:00)*** DOCTRINE October – Bible Authority of the Bible Inerrancy of the Bible The Bible, in the original manuscripts, does not affirm anything that is contrary to fact. The Bible always tells the truth. Titus 1:1-4 Proverbs 30:5 2 Timothy 3:16 - Can you trust God? Yes! Will you always understand everything God says and does? No. **(1:00)**END**(00:00) Thanks for joining me again today! If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running. (00:00) Parenting Manual and Pursuing Godliness Together Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo My wife has a new book out. She took some of the lessons from Scripture that helped us as parents and put them together into a parenting manual written as one thought a day from the Bible. You can find it on Amazon by searching for Susan Jane Smith, Parenting Manual. I also have a link in the show notes. If you are a parent or know a parent who is interested in raising godly children, this book can point you to Scripture that will help you keep your focus as you take the journey with your children. The book is $5 and is available as a paperback or kindle book. If you read it, leave her a review, it really does help others find it! Thanks!
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    52 mins
  • An Everyday Missionary

    An Everyday Missionary
    Oct 5 2024
    24_10_05 -Ep.332 - Run With Horses Podcast - Everyday Missionary Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read! https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04 ***(28:00)*** END ***(27:00)*** Last week I asked what is a self-feeding Christian and how do I become one? This week we continue looking at the goals of our discipleship pathway and turn our attention to becoming an everyday missionary. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! If you are new to the show, you can find our past shows on our website, runwithhorses.net. I have spent several weeks focusing on a definition of the church and the current discussion about a discipleship pathway is best understood in the context of our broader look at the church. If you have been enjoying the show, I would appreciate it if you would leave a review wherever you are listening! And as always, your questions, comments and feedback are welcome. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net. And now, on with the show... ***(27:00) ***END***(23:00)**** Habits – Abide in Christ Abide carries the meaning to Wait on, remain in, persist with, keep on, etc. John 15:4-8 Not passive. An active choice to remain in Christ. Similar to Paul urging Timothy to pursue godliness. 2 Thessalonians 2:15-17 ***(23:00)***END***(0:00) What is an everyday missionary? How do I become one? Merriam- Webster : Missionary - a person undertaking a mission. Everyday - 1, encountered or used routinely; 2, used, suitable for, or seen every day An everyday missionary is someone who lives with the mission of Jesus at the center of their lives, everyday. "Everyday missionaries are those who practice a life on mission where God has placed them."- REF (https://calvarydothan.com/everyday-missionaries/) An Everyday Missionary is a Disciple Maker, working on the mission of Jesus where they are. We have to start with a clear understanding of the mission of Jesus. REF (https://discipleship.org/blog/mission-of-christ/) Two-fold mission of Jesus 1. To make redemption for every person possible. Only Jesus could do this. No other name. ***Acts 4:12 Sinless life and perfect sacrifice. ***Hebrews 7:22-28 "It is finished." ***John 19:28-30 **Redemption is now possible for all.** Justifies through Faith. ***Romans 3:21-26 ***(00:00)*** END PART 1*** ___________________ ***(27:00) ***BEGIN PART 2 ***END ***(5:00)*** 2. To start of movement of messengers of redemption. These messengers are called disciples by Jesus and were prepared by Him to take the message of redemption to the world from generation to generation. Disciples are Ambassadors for Christ. ***2 Corinthians 5:16-21 Disciple have A New Relationship. ***John 13:12-17 Disciple follow A Clear Command. ***John 13:34-35 Disciples Carry a Clear Message. ***1 Corinthians 5:1-6 - The message requires us to repent and believe, turning from our old ways to follow Jesus, becoming His disciples and joining His mission. The messengers of the Redemption message gather in assemblies Jesus calls the Church. The Church gathers to use their gifts to support mutual spiritual growth and progress toward Christ-likeness. The New Testament calls this edification. It is the building up of the Church for works of service. Our spiritual growth has a purpose. Ultimately God's Glory, accomplished through obedience to His commands. An Everyday Missionary lives with this mission and message in view. Choices are made that keep them engaged in the mission. It is an intentional lifestyle. Looking for conversations that keep Jesus at the center. ****(5:00) ***END***( 1:00)*** DOCTRINE October – Bible Authority of the Bible Matthew 4:4 2 Timothy 3:16 Psalm 19:7-11 2 Peter 1:19-21 Matthew 28:18 **(1:00)**END**(00:00) Thanks for joining me again today! If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running. (00:00) Parenting Manual and Pursuing Godliness Together Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo My wife has a new book out. She took some of the lessons from Scripture that helped us as parents and put them together into a parenting manual written as one thought a day from the Bible. You ...
    Show More Show Less
    56 mins