Posts by Richard Parrish
Do You Value the Small?
Are you inclined to make things more complicated than necessary? In full disclosure: I’ve spent too much of my life overthinking, redoing, and complicating matters, rather than embracing simplicity. Perhaps that behavior is spurred by a deep sense of inadequacy. Have you ever wondered why at the end of Jesus’ ministry on this earth he…
Read MoreAre You Afraid to Fail?
The dream woke me. My heart was beating rapidly. I was now awake. “Where did that come from?” I thought. Have you ever had a dream or recollection trigger something from the past? I don’t claim to understand dream therapy. It’s easy for me to shrug off dreams or those random, out-of-nowhere memories. But this…
Read MoreIs it possible to have joy in suffering?
“The hits just keep coming!” “I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place.” “Will life ever get easier?” “How much more can I take?” We often hear statements like these from those who struggle. Possibly, you have uttered similar comments. I know I have. Maintaining a bright, positive outlook in times of adversity requires…
Read MoreRelevant or Righteous?
“Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.” – Ephesians 6:18 (NRSV) There’s been a growing awareness within me of the importance of praying for our leaders and parishioners. Perhaps this consciousness is spurred by my conversations…
Read MoreBe Patient
Psalm 37:7 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy. — Colossians 1:11 (ESV) A few years ago, I spoke with a friend of mine. It was more than a casual conversation. It was deeper than “How’s the weather in your neck of the…
Read MoreThe Golden Rule for Leaders?
My mother wasn’t a businesswoman. She never held a corporate position or even worked in a business. She was a mother, wife, and a “director” of three unruly boys! So, perhaps she had more leadership skills than what her apron-clad appearance revealed. When my misbehavior created conflict with my brothers or friends, she would pull…
Read MoreLiving When Life Makes No Sense
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68 ESV) Where do we go when life doesn’t make sense? Who do we turn to when we have more questions than answers? Do you ever feel alone? A close observation of the life-rhythm of Jesus reveals…
Read MoreWhom do you serve?
“Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling.” — Psalm 2:11 (ESV) “Now therefore fear the Lord and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the…
Read MoreHow to make trust a priority
When leaders ignore the development of trust, change of any kind is more challenging. Creating trust is essential; a top priority if we intend to lead others out of the status quo, beyond the present, and to the future. Adapting to change requires trust. Trust is the bedrock that supports change. When trust is strong,…
Read MoreAre we Unashamed?
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.” — Romans 1:16 (ESV) Lately, I’ve noticed people are selective in what they say — and don’t say. We can become quite vocal in our attempt to right injustice, destroy discrimination, and stop oppression.…
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