Silence is a discipline. From the day we’re born, we are invited to speak. As we grow older, silence is an indicator of anger, sadness, and even depression, so people tend to just keep talking. Now we have social media, that continuously fills the air with noise. However, here are 5 circumstances in which it is best to just be quiet:

As a pastor, I have found myself discouraged. Seeing larger churches across my city, the nation, and even the world, in person or on TV, I often find myself in the trap of comparison, wanting God to use me in a great way like I see Him doing for others. But along the way, I have picked up a few encouraging things to remember when I find myself discouraged.

You have been given a gift; a function to serve in this world. God gave it to you, for reasons that are all His own. It is very easy to look at what's been given to you generically, assuming it is the same thing others have been given.

The traditional purpose of Lent is the preparation of the believer through prayer and self-denial, by the means of giving up something that is dear. While many people are giving up cow’s meat, carbs, or caffeine, here are a few suggestions that might prove more beneficial:

“New year's day always brings about a grand sense of renewed hope and optimism but is rarely met with consistent discipline.”

I understand the awareness of challenges, and the mindfulness of limitations, but don't allow your view of yourself to stop you. Place your limitations in the hands of God.

Generation X, millennials, and the emerging generations are all about passion. However, I want to make sure that we understand the parameters of our passion. We have to be careful in this, "do what makes you happy" world, so here are 5 things you should consider as you are pursuing your passion:

“We may understand money, but most of us have no idea the significance of the seed and the harvest. If you have been praying to God for a financial harvest, here are 5 things you should know and remember …”

“Sure, some people can't tell the difference, yet the differences are there, and clear to those who take the time to truly savor what they are eating. So no ... Mayo is NOT THE SAME as Miracle Whip! I'm sure you're asking, "What does this have to do with me …. "

“The very reason for which you were created, just may be connected to something that terrifies you to your core. What if God wanted to use you in a great and impactful way, in the very areas that you avoid?”