Posts by Richard Parrish
Where do you place your trust?
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not…
Read MoreHow Long?
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven…” “…A time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1, 8 (ESV). “This too will pass!” The expression commonly follows a heavy sigh prompted by weariness. The utterance reveals an…
Read MoreA “Trust Barometer”
Influential leaders recognize the benefits of trust. Productivity increases when employees trust management. Sales and repeat business flourish when customers trust your business. Trust grows when you do what you say you will do. It’s called integrity. Creating confidence requires ongoing attention and diligence. Too often, our “Trust Barometer” is neglected. Sales are not where…
Read MorePeace In Persecution
“On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” – John 20:19 (ESV). Reading John’s account of what it was like for Christ’s disciples after…
Read MoreOur Dreams in God’s Hands
“Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” – 1 Peter 4:9-10 (ESV) This week I attended two incredible church services in the only “registered church” in Nuuk, Karakalpakstan, led by Pastor A and Pastor J. The…
Read MoreHow Critics Make You A Better Leader
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17 (ESV) Sometimes we find ourselves in an unexpected or unwanted leadership role. We didn’t pursue or ask for the position. But unplanned events beyond our control place us there. A project director suddenly falls ill, and you’re asked to lead the campaign to completion.…
Read MoreFeeling Insecure Can Be a Gift
Does God have a preference in calling the insecure? I’ve been rereading the story of Moses, one of the greatest leaders known to humankind. Moses’ leadership was exemplary: a beneficial model that has – and continues to – inspire and demonstrate valuable leadership principles for leaders throughout the world. The story of Israel’s deliverance from…
Read MoreWhen Is “Enough” Enough?
Recently a friend of mine asked me: “At what point can you say ‘It’s done’?” She knows me well. She was referring to my relentless persistence to scrutinize every word, sentence, and paragraph in something I’ve written. My tendency to make things better extends beyond writing. It’s not that I’m a perfectionist; I struggle with…
Read MoreHow to Have Healthy Confidence
Our world is increasingly uncertain. The global economy is complicated and unpredictable. Team members in any business, ministry, or corporation need leaders who radiate confidence. Assured leaders inspire passion and energy. Their clarity motivates others to act, provides a sense of security and ownership, and their confidence becomes contagious. However, effective leadership requires more than…
Read MoreLetting Go
“Just hang in there!” His words were meant to encourage me. They didn’t. The burden was heavy. I had carried it for many years. I knew he meant well. I smiled. “What else can you do?” I replied. We’ve all heard phrases from well-meaning friends who try to bolster our spirits when life is hard.…
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