Most people focus on pastoral ministry--the activities, programs, and outreach connected with the life of the church--when considering the work of a pastor. But one of the most important parts of a minister's job is pastoral care--activities such as compassion, healing, sustaining, guiding, and reconciling people to one another and to God. People today earnestly seek a minister who knows their names and cares about their hurts. Foundations of Pastoral Care introduces both clergy and laity to the ministry skills and personal qualities needed to provide effective care for people inside and outside the church. With thorough examination, Professor Bruce Petersen traces the historical development of soul care from the primitive church and on through the centuries to the church of today. In unit one, he introduces the place of pastoral care in the local church. He emphasizes the unique responsibility of church leaders and pastors to provide spiritual guidance while caring for the physical and emotional needs of their people. In unit two, he examines the pastoral care roles clergy are asked to fill--shepherd, counselor, collaborator, and spiritual leader. In unit three, he addresses the need for a pastoral presence in the life of the church, and in unit four, he concludes with a discussion about the pastor's personal life and the importance of personal spiritual formation. Foundations of Pastoral Care provides the fundamental elements pastors and church leaders need to care for people in meaningful, personal ways with the love, compassion, and grace Christ showed during His ministry on earth.

The woman's heart is one of God's most prized creations. Designed in it are three holy desires: To be romanced To play an irreplaceable role in a great adventure To unveil beauty As a mother, how you nurture these core desires of the heart establish a path for motherhood. When your children look to you for comfort and strength, encouragement and advice, you can lead them to the Father because you have discovered the truths he designed into you. In this inspiring book, learn more about your design and how it empowers you to enrich and lead the life of your children.

Journey with your students through 8 weeks of the beatitudes. With both community and individual challenges each week, this study helps students engage the kingdom in every aspect of their lives.This book is available as an e-book! Click here to see other selections available electronically.

El amor en los tiempos del facebook es una cr nica desprolija acerca del amor, una compilaci n de apuntes que surgen del alma, pero que en definitiva provienen del mayor sentimiento que nos regal nuestro Dios. Lo que comenz con algunas publicaciones en el perfil p blico del Facebook, inmediatamente se transform en un fen meno que atrajo a millones de seguidores en todo el mundo que solicitaban a Dante que cada viernes escribiera algo referente al amor. Y as se cre una serie de textos que hoy est n recopilados en este libro plagado de romanticismo. El amor en los tiempos del Facebook es una cr nica desprolija acerca del amor, una compilaci n de apuntes que surgen del alma, pero que en definitiva provienen del mayor sentimiento que nos regal nuestro Dios. Un libro que deber an leer por lo menos una vez mis amigos solteros, los novios, aquellos que solo quieren vivir un buen momento sin comprometerse demasiado, los que tienen el coraz n destrozado, los posesivos, los que tienen miedo a confesar sus sentimientos, los casados que sienten que se les enfri la llama, los que toleran un noviazgo disfuncional, los enamorados no correspondidos, y fundamentalmente, los enamorados del amor . --Recomendaci n del autor.

Lust, greed, pride, arrogance...Where does it all come from? We are facing the same kind of moral decline that was the ruin of countless cultures before us. In a world full of immorality, how do we take the first steps toward change?Every temptation begins with a thought. There has never been a more difficult time to resist temptations of all kinds. Taking your thoughts captive is essential in today's world; the mind can be either evil, according to the ways of the world, or good, as it is transformed to God's will.Laaser invites you on a journey of restoration, obedience, and accountability. Learn about what true obedience to Christ really means and how to incorporate it into our own lives. It is possible to lead a life that is free of evil thoughts.Get ready to be transformed.

Your words are like seeds. Every time you say them, they're taking root and growing. Are you planting good seeds? Are you seeing the increase, the health, the relationships, and the happiness you dream about? If not, check out what you’re saying. Whether you realize it or not, the words you speak today are setting the direction for the rest of your life.

In Speak the Blessing: Send Your Words in the Direction You Want Your Life to Go, bestselling author Joel Osteen offers you unique insights into this profound truth: Your words have creative power. When you discover the power of speaking what God says about you, you give those words the right to come to pass. There is a miracle in your mouth. There is healing in your mouth, freedom in your mouth, and new levels in your mouth. But nothing happens until you speak the blessing.

Your words become your reality. Start blessing your future today. Use the words you speak to unlock the power within and create the life you were designed to live. The life-changing possibilities are limitless.

This five-session small group Bible study (DVD/digital video sold separately) by noted teacher and historian, Ray Vander Laan, is volume one of the That the World May Know series. Vander Laan illustrates how God guided his people to a specific place - the Promised Land - to impact the world both in ancient times and today. Just like the time and place of our birth shapes our journey, so the land and culture of the Hebrew people shaped their story. Promised Land provides wonderful context to the stories of that time. Faith Lessons is a unique video series that brings God's Word to life with astounding relevance. By weaving together the Bible's fascinating historical, cultural, religious, and geographical contexts, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan reveals unique insights into the Scriptures' significance for modern believers. Each lesson: Focuses on passages of Scripture explored in the DVD Includes sidebars, maps, photos and other study tools Features questions that facilitate discussion and inspire personal reflection Include 30 personal Bible studies to help you deepen your learning experience between sessions, and turn lessons from the past into applications that impact how you live out your faith today. Filmed on location in Israel, these illuminating "faith lessons" afford a new understanding of the Bible that will ground your convictions and transform your life. The Faith Lessons video series is ideal for use in small groups, personal and family Bible studies, and adult Sunday school. Individual believers and families will gain vital insights from long-ago times and cultures through this innovative approach to Bible study. Lessons include: Standing at the Crossroads -Tel Gezer Wet Feet - Jordan River First Fruits - Tel Jericho Confronting Evil - Tel Beth Shemesh Iron of Culture - Tel Azekah Designed for use with the Faith Lessons Promised Land Video Study (sold separately).

A God you can know Is God a wrathful judge? A gentle healer? A father? Brother? Friend? In The Relentless Tenderness of Jesus, Brennan Manning brings you to a deeper understanding of the true nature of God. Through poignant and unforgettable stories and challenging observations, Manning helps you stretch your mind and reject simplistic explanations of who God really is. With rich insights you'll see how God can at once be a roaring lion, pacing the globe and seeking you out; and simultaneously a tender lamb, there to comfort you in any time of need. A unique experience, this book will forever change the way you think about God. "As I read these honest, grace-saturated, humbly iconoclastic, distinctly un-sugarcoated but still somehow gentle words, I could taste familiar water, living water that only people who are thirsty for life can enjoy. Read it--and hope again!" --from the foreword by Larry Crabb Brennan Manning is a former Franciscan priest and author of a dozen books including the best-selling The Ragamuffin Gospel. He has lived a faithful life of service to others and to God and shares his intellect and love through the words found in this book.

God created all of us to be in relationship with him and with each other. Yet for those with disabilities, attitudes and systems of ableism create barriers to fully participating in God's kingdom work, as well as leading to deep hurt - and when any members of the body of Christ are not included, we all miss out. In Belonging, Deborah Abbs guides us through nine Bible studies on inclusion. Exploring the deep love and acceptance of our heavenly Father, she shows us what that means for offering love and acceptance to one another. In both Old and New Testament stories and teachings on Christian community we see how God responds in love to those who are often marginalized and excluded. In turn, through these examples and lessons we can see the importance of disability inclusion in church and learn to welcome people of all different abilities. Part of the LifeBuilder Bible Studies series, Belonging features questions that can be used both individually or in small groups. It is a brilliant resource for anyone wanting to understand Biblical teaching on inclusion and acceptance better, and for those wanting to make their church a more welcoming place for those with disabilities.

Reconcile contains practical ideas for transforming conflict in everyday life from an internationally renowned mediator, who has worked in war zones and entrenched conflicts across five continents. The author challenges Christians to renew their commitment to reconciliation as the heart of the gospel message.

Written by popular Christian singer Crystal Lewis, this devotional book reflects upon the songs on her latest album, Gold--songs that speak of God's faithfulness in the midst of hard times.

Most of us spend a lifetime trying to figure out who we are and how we relate to others and God. The Enneagram is here to help. Far more than a personality test, author Chris Heuertz teaches us that the Enneagram is a sacred map to the soul. Lies about who we think we are keep us trapped in loops of self-defeat, but the Enneagram uniquely reveals nine ways we get lost, as well as nine ways we find our way home to our true self and to God. Whether you are an enthusiast or simply Enneagram-curious, this groundbreaking guide to the spiritual depth of the Enneagram will help you: Understand the "why" behind your type beyond caricatures and stereotypes Identify and find freedom from self-destructive patterns Learn how to work with your type toward spiritual growth Awaken your unique gifts to serve today's broken world Richly insightful and deeply practical, The Sacred Enneagram is your invitation to begin the journey of a life transformed. Praise for The Sacred Enneagram: "Integrated within these pages is Chris's extensive knowledge and understanding of this ancient tool, along with depth in his teaching of contemplative spirituality as practiced by Jesus. Readers are offered a powerful way forward in their unique journey of spiritual transformation through aligning Christian contemplative prayer postures to specific Enneagram types." --Nina M. Barnes, Dean of Spiritual Formation & Leadership, University of Northwestern-St. Paul "The Sacred Enneagram is a groundbreaking contribution to the Enneagram community, providing unique spiritual growth insights for all nine types. If you're not yet convinced of the value, depth, and accuracy of the Enneagram, Chris demystifies and makes this ancient wisdom more accessible than ever." --George Mekhail, pastor, The Riverside Church NYC

Our kids are experiencing an unprecedented sense of isolation, interacting virtually in a world that seems ever more fearful with each news cycle. They absorb and internalize the stress and anxiety they see on their parents' faces and on the phone, laptop, tablet, and TV screens that are ever before their eyes. Not surprisingly, their mental and physical health are suffering. As parents, we want to know how we can help. Practical and encouraging, Raising Healthy Teenagers helps you understand the mental, physical, and social toll the past couple years have taken on your kids. Then it offers proven strategies to help your teen get back onto a healthy path by * reducing screen time and increasing green time * learning how to be a social being again * developing strategies to deal with disruptions in schooling * reclaiming a structured day * breaking the cycle of anxiety and depression * and much more

Starting over...it's not as easy as it sounds, is it? But, you've made it through the pain of divorce, and you are eager for a new beginning. God stands ready to help-He is the God of possibilities. As you look toward the future, you may begin to ask questions about what a new life might look like. Will I ever remarry, you wonder. Do I want to remarry? There are other questions: How much time should pass after a marriage ends before it's wise to explore a new friendship or romance? Am I ready-emotionally, spiritually, financially? Is my family prepared? Do I need to be completely put-back-together before I can think about dating again or being remarried? Dave and Lisa Frisbie have spent 20 years studying the post-divorce family, and have been dubbed 'America's Remarriage Experts.' In Dating After Divorce, they share stories of adults who chose to remain single after divorce and explore why that choice might make sense for you. They also share stories of people who chose to begin dating and eventually to remarry. Dating after Divorce will help you gauge your readiness and evaluate your options, as you move forward to discover a new life and embrace all God has in store.Reviews'Everyone who reads this new book will understand very quickly that they are not alone, and will receive help from the practical steps outlined along with Godly inspiration. I highly recommend their books and also would encourage you to invite them to come and speak at your church.'-Gary Van Derford, Pastor, North Coast Church, Vista, California'The increasing percentage of divorced adults requires critical intervention. Dr. David & Lisa Frisbie are bringing much-needed redemptive strategies into focus. In this excellent new book, they are helping to provide answers for today's questions.'-Dr. Paul G. Cunningham, General Superintendent Emeritus, Church of the Nazarene

In this 90-day devotional, Walker helps readers keep pace with "Costly Grace," the book that is challenging this generation to renew their commitments to Jesus and his call.

We've all heard the question "what would Jesus do," but have you ever wondered what he would undo? The New Testament is filled with Jesus undoing anything that causes separation between God and the people he loves. What would Jesus undo in today's culture? The answer is a lot.

Global Reset will open readers' eyes and alert them to how world leaders are using the "Great Reset" agenda to seize pandemics, natural disasters and catastrophes, civil disorder, political unrest, and other current events to reshape every facet of life-all pointing toward the universal economy and godless global government of the Antichrist. COVID unleashed a cascade of consequences that are now reaching far beyond the pandemic itself. Governments have begun leveraging the coronavirus and even the vaccine as a power grab, setting the stage for further intrusions in the future. These accelerants are driving the world to the precipice of fundamental, irreversible transformation. The winds of change are blowing. Tectonic shifts are underway at every level. These realities are alarming by themselves. And yet, there remains a still deeper, more sinister agenda imbedded within. According to prophecies found in the Bible, a one-world government will indeed emerge in the end times. According to the book of Revelation, a future unified government will encompass the whole earth, and Satan himself will be behind it for the ultimate purpose of ruling over all the earth and being worshipped by its inhabitants. While we aren't in the end times, we're on the edge of the precipice. In Global Reset, readers will discover: The "Great Reset" agenda that sets the stage for the end time scenario prophesied in Scripture How China and other great nations are beginning to play a dominant role in international, socioeconomic, and political dynamics Possible scenarios regarding America in the end times and what believers can do to stem the tide of decline God's great reset planned for planet earth and humanity-the millennial reign of Christ Every person's needs for an eternal personal reset that can come only through Jesus Christ Prepare yourself spiritually and arm yourself with information. Find answers to the questions everyone should be asking about current world events and how they may be ushering in Christ's return.

Best-selling author Dr. Myles Munroe offers daily practical and biblical advice for women. Based on two of his most popular books, Understanding the Purpose and Power of Women and Understanding the Purpose and Power of Men, this 90-day devotional will help you truly understand your God-given purpose and power as a woman. Each day’s reading includes teaching and encouragement, a Scripture reading from both the Old and New Testaments, and a thought for the day to draw you closer to God and His purposes for you.

Explore the nature and role of women as God intended, addressing such issues as: How is a woman uniquely different from a man? What are the purpose and design of the woman? What are a woman’s emotional and sexual needs? What is a woman's role as a leader? What does the Bible really teach about women? As Dr. Munroe writes, "A woman cannot fulfill her purpose unless she is in relationship with God." Through this devotional, you can deepen your relationship with your heavenly Father and fulfill your potential as an integral part of His eternal purposes.

Life is full of subtle, unsuspected, hidden perks, ready to make their presence known at the turn of a corner to cheer us, to lift us, to change our attitudes, to give our souls a reason to celebrate. Don't miss them. Don't let them pass by unnoticed. Celebrate those perks one by one, day after day. Celebrate living. Throw thou a party and invite me. Come with a joyful heart, ready to have the time of your life. I'll bring the streamers―"You Bring the Confetti "

We have a choice, says Luci Swindoll. We can trudge through our lives, shoulder to the wheel, worried and stressed and hassled. Or we can choose to really live―to celebrate life's richness, its beauty, its pleasures and perks. In this delightful book, Luci challenges us to choose the second option. She urges us to be on the lookout for reasons to celebrate, and she assures us that those reasons are everywhere to be found. With wise insight, droll wit, and an irresistable sense of fun, she invites us to:

• savor the wonder of the present moment
• appreciate our milestones (even birthdays )
• relish our mealtimes
• cherish our friendships
• rejoice in our reunions
• widen our knowledge
• find purpose in our work
• revel in our accomplishments
• enjoy our imaginations
• seek out beauty everywhere
• cherish our American heritage
• and above all, give thanks to the reason and source of all our celebrations

More than just a reminder to celebrate, this book itself is a celeration of life's infinite and joyful possibilities. It's a wisdom-filled, enthusiastic exploration of what it means to live fully and appreciatively―and it comes with a promise that if you bring the confetti . . .God brings the joy