Leading Hearts January/February 2016 Issue by Leading Hearts Magazine

Is your

SMALL GROUP aSAFE PLACE? 5 Ways to Embrace

THE JESUS INFLUENCE

CAROL KENT

SPEAK UP FOR HOPE

JENN & BRIAN JOHNSON

LEADING LITTLE HEARTS

SUSAN B. MEAD

TO COMFORT THE GRIEVING

“The Gift of Friendship is a book you’ll want to give to every one of your friends, because you’ll see your own friendships in the pages and you’ll

just have to share it!”

—RACHEL ANNE RIDGE, artist, blogger, and author of Flash: The Homeless Donkey

oday’s most popular bloggers, including Liz Curtis Higgs, Sophie Hudson, Lysa TerKeurst, Renee Swope, and many more, celebrate friendship with heartwarming stories that remind us all of the deep connections that enrich our lives.

MyHomeSweetHomeOnline.net

Available wherever books and ebooks are sold.

THE FEATS OF LEADERS ON A RECENT VISIT TO SEE MY 85-YEAR-OLD MOM, SHE COMPLAINED THAT THE LONGER SHE STOOD, THE MORE HER TOENAILS HURT HER FEET.

I had mom sit down and pull off her shoes. To my horror, I found that somehow her toenails had turned into jagged blades that mercilessly stabbed at her poor toes. As it was too late in the day to take her for a pedicure, there was nothing left to do but pour a basin of water, wash her feet and trim her toenails. My mother, being afraid of the scissors, shrieked before each clip of a toenail. “This will never work as long as you cry out like that,” I teased her. “I can’t help it. I know it’s going to hurt.” I reached for a nearby book of Bible promises. Could you read this to me while I work?” I asked. Mom begin to read, “For I know the plans I have for you,” she said, jumping when she heard the scissors clip. “Louder, Mom!” I called out. She continued, “…says the Lord. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster,’ EEEK!” “Louder Mom, read louder!” “… ‘to give you a future and a hope.’ Jeremiah 29:11.”

FROM THE PUBLISHER Just then, Mom’s roommate burst into the room and stopped dead in her tracks at the sight of my mom shouting Scriptures while I trimmed her toenails. “Why, isn’t that the sweetest thing I ever saw,” she gushed. I had to laugh. Maybe it was sweet, for the only reason I had taken on the task of trimming difficult toenails, and the only reason my mom had shouted Scriptures at me while I worked was because of our love for one another. This so reminds me of Jesus washing the dirty feet of His disciples. As He was ‘THE WORD MADE FLESH,” I’d have to ask why He would stoop to such a task. The easy answer was it was a task that needed to be done. But why hadn’t He saved this task for a servant or even for one of his disciples? The best answer? He washed the stinky, smelly feet of his disciples because he loved them and because he wanted to model serving others in love to them. That’s a beautiful picture of servant leadership, a picture we’ll explore in this issue of Leading Hearts. Thank you for joining the discussion. S Love, LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD PUBLISHER, LEADING HEARTS MAGAZINE

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EMPOWERING CHRISTIAN WOMEN FOR LEADERSHIP

LEADING HEARTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 VOL. 2, ISSUE 6

EDITORIAL STAFF PUBLISHER.. ..................Linda Evans Shepherd EDITOR/ART DIRECTOR.....Amber Weigand-Buckley ADVERTISING. ........... Linda Evans Shepherd & Angelina Locricchio COPY EDITOR...............Julie Gillies EDITORIAL SECRETARY. ....Angelina Locricchio CONTRIBUTING WRITERS. ............................................. Rebekah Binkley Montgomery, Penelope Carlevato, Kathy Collard Miller, Michelle S. Cox, Sharon Norris Elliot, Pam Farrel, Julie Gorman, Kily Hill, Athena Dean Holtz, Carol Kent, Susan B. Mead, Karen Porter, Rhonda Rhea, Saundra Dalton Smith, Heather Van Allen, W. Terry Whalin, Karen H. Whiting

RIGHT TO THE HEART BOARD MEMBERS Linda Evans Shepherd (President), Dianne Butts, Sharon Norris Elliot, Karen Porter, Kathy Collard Miller, Rhonda Rhea and Carole Whang Schutter and Joy A. Schneider

INFORMATION Leading Hearts Magazine for Christian Women is published bimonthly by Right to the Heart Ministries 2016. ISSN 2380-5455 ADVERTISING | Display rates are available at leadinghearts.com. By accepting an advertisement, Leading Hearts does not endorse any advertiser or product. We reserve the right to reject advertisements not consistent with the magazines objectives. MANUSCRIPTS | Writers guidelines are available at leadinghearts.com. Leading Hearts | PO Box 6421, Longmont, CO 80501 phone: (303) 835-8473 | fax: (303)678-0260 email: lindareply@gmail.com MEMBER | 2015 Evangelical Press Association Award of Merit Winner All rights reserved. Copyrighted material reprinted with permission Photos courtesy of: Austin Stone Worship, Bethel Music, Biscuit Media, Dollar Photo Club, Inlight Studios, Kerry Kara Photography /KLS Photos & Imaging, Sony/Provident, Reunion Records, Sparrow & The Fuel Music.

Text LEA D ING to 9 H EAR 5 577 Mob T S f ile S or F is ter REE ho o d Su ppor t!

TABLE OF CONTENTS 8 THE JESUS INFLUENCE 12 CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?

16 GOOD GRIEF: HOLD-

ING YOUR FRIENDS CLOSE

20 JENN & BRIAN JOHNSON LEADING LITTLE HEARTS

29 SMALL GROUP, SAFE PLACE

34 BEFORE YOU SELF-

PUBLISH, CONSIDER THIS

38 CROSSFIT CHANGED MY LIFE

45 BUT,I’M AFRAID I’LL CRY

this issue

every issue 14 FAITHPRINTS 15 INSPIRED

19 JUST 18 SUMMERS 24 IN THE LEAD

26 HEALTHTRACKS 30 LIFEBYTES

37 PRAYER CIRCLE 40 REVIEWS 46 TRUTH

THE ACT TEST ALL MY LIFE I’VE HATED ASSESSMENT TESTS. Even in Pre-K,

I recall that I was pretty ticked off that the “Kindergarten Readiness” test officiant would not let me stack the blocks in a configuration of my choosing. I mean, come on, how could they stifle my gifts?! My life. My learning. My terms. That’s probably why I’ve blocked so many of the tests out of my memory. However, the one assessment experience that will stick with me for life happened my senior year — the ACT. Instead of brushing up on my math skills, I spent the night before in a dramatic monolog. I knew the outcome of the test could determine my destiny — “Would I end up in the Ivy League (I had Oxford’s acceptance letter already mapped out) or become the world’s most innovative ‘sandwich artist’ (at least I’d never be hungry again)?” When test time rolled around, I totally choked on the math section. After only a year on math hiatus, it was amazing how much I had forgotten. (Hey, but I learned some serious skills in Pottery 101). So, instead of trying to figure out the heinous geometry proofs, I unleashed my artistic side and drew quite a stunning dot-to-dot portrait by numbers. (And, yes I’m being serious.) My math. My way. It’s no surprise that I ended up paying to retake Algebra, a class this wordy-girl absolutely despised, in college. Instead of putting even a little bit of effort to act on the math knowledge I had, I just bailed. After years of cramming in a lot of head knowledge, I realized that the things I put to use every day, transformed my knowledge into a new way of doing life—it influenced the final equation. It’s obvious Christians NEED head knowledge, but simply knowing doesn’t cut it. We’ve got to put what we know into practice every day. Especially as

FROM THE EDITOR leaders. The people we shepherd need to see what we believe is rooted deep enough to change how we do life in comparison to those in the corporate world of “leadership.” Jesus’ example must compel us to ACT. In fact, James 4:17 goes one step further to say that we will be held accountable for the times that we sat on the sidelines, seeing need or injustice, and failed to ACT. “If you know the right thing to do and don’t do it, that, for you, is evil” (The Message). So, when was the last time you felt God’s nudge to ACT, but instead you pushed that feeling aside, or even assigned someone else to the task because you felt it was “beneath you?” Can you recall when you last served a meal in a homeless shelter, spent time having coffee with a hard-to-love member of your church or community or even sacrificed something you really wanted to give that money to missions? God has called His leaders to the service of “feeding His sheep.” And every day, leading by example—leading by humbly serving and walking in obedience to His Word is the best object lesson we can give those we are called to serve. If God gave you the ACT test today, how would you score? I am praying this issue of Leading Hearts will put a fire in your heart so that many will be inspired by your example—to allow the love of the Savior we serve to move us into action! S Peace!

AMBER WEIGAND-BUCKLEY EDITOR, LEADING HEARTS MAGAZINE

“The truth is, we either lead through positive, deliberate, choices or lead passively through unintentional acts of indifference.”

THE JESUS INFLUENCE

5 ESSENTIALS TO LEADING BY HIS EXAMPLE

BY JULIE GORMAN @HISLOVEEXTENDED AUTHOR/SPEAKER

COMING SOON TO THE PODCAST

www.gormanleadership.com “FROM CALL TO ACTION”

GET CONNECTED @LEADINGHEARTS.COM

“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” — john 13:15 (niv)

Many of us refute the position of leadership. But, as Christians, leadership isn’t an option. We lead with our lives. You see, leadership isn’t attained through corporate positions, rather it’s revealed through influence… Influence demonstrated in our friendships, family, and the familiar. Think about it … We have the incredible opportunity to lead our children, serve our spouse, and convey God’s love to our community. The truth is, we either lead through positive, deliberate, choices or lead passively through unintentional acts of indifference. I for one want to impact and inspire my circle of influence. How about you? Jesus demonstrated the essence of perfect leadership leaving us a powerful example to follow. So, how did Jesus lead? 1.Jesus led through delegation. I love how Jesus sent out the disciples in Mark 6:7, “… he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits.” (NIV) One of the greatest opportunities we have is to empower others. Jesus possessed the ability to disarm all the powers of darkness with just a word from His lips; instead, He empowered the disciples. Jesus knew the future establishment of the church rested on these men; one day He would return to His Father; these men needed to embrace the power given them. As a mother, wife, and minister, I must remember to allow others to participate. True, I may be able to do the delegated tasks, but true leadership risks stepping back so that others might enjoy the rewards of stepping out. 2. Jesus led through Humility. True leadership resides in servanthood. In John 13:4-5 Jesus “poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” Wow. The night He would be betrayed, the night He would encounter the beginning of His torture…He didn’t sit back expecting honor or special treatment…instead, he humbled Himself and washed the feet of the ones who would betray and leave Him. (NIV) Would I do that? Do I do that? When others disappoint do I continue to serve? When my spouse

doesn’t follow through or act like I think he should… do I humbly serve? When people forget or fail to support…do I judge or continue to wash their feet? True leadership necessitates servanthood. 3. Jesus didn’t concern Himself with opinions, rather He stood for what was right. All throughout the Gospels, religious leaders attempted to trap Jesus. They questioned his authority. Jesus didn’t concern Himself with popularity, instead, He went to the lowly, the afflicted, the destitute. He overturned money tables. He resisted “Pharisee-like behavior.” He stood up for what was right. As leaders, we shouldn’t look for opposition; we shouldn’t try to defy governing authority…but…when faced with the decision of popularity or genuine righteousness…we must persevere to honor God…following Christ’s example. 4. Jesus led through vulnerability. He willingly risked being betrayed, choosing Judas, knowing he would betray Him. John 13:18, “I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the scripture: ‘He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.’ “I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am He.” (NIV) Leadership recognizes the potential of betrayal yet willingly embraces vulnerability. Ahhhhh, Lord help us! 5. Finally, Jesus demonstrated the essence of leadership through LOVE. Jesus loved much. He unbiasedly embraced the sinner. He ate with prostitutes and tax-collectors. He touched the lepers. He forgave the ones who nailed Him to the cross. True leadership doesn’t look to advance through relationships. True leadership serves the helpless. Who surrounds us today? Who can we demonstrate the love of God to? May our mission each day be to advance the Kingdom of God through His Love. May we touch at least one person each day, serving those who can never repay or return the favor. May we follow Jesus’ footsteps and LOVE deeply. Finally, in John 13:16-17 Jesus says, “I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” (NIV) PRAYER: Father, empower us to live as Jesus lived and to lead as Jesus led. S

“HE HAS SENT ME TO BIND UP THE BROKENHEARTED, TO PROCLAIM FREEDOM FOR THE CAPTIVES AND RELEASE FROM DARKNESS FOR THE PRISONERS.” S ISAIAH 61:1, (NIV)

BY PAM FARREL @PAMFARREL AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.Love-Wise.com

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CAN YOU HEAR

ME NOW?

2. Call back. Sometimes when a cell line is full of static, you will hang up and call back. In the same way, if you try to communicate and your partner is misunderstanding or getting agitated or upset, simply offer understanding and then rephrase. You might say, “I can see this is making you upset. That was never my intent. Let me try to rephrase it.”. Make sure your conversations don’t include these kinds of “static”: Accusations: Name calling, labeling, and swear words are all inflammatory to a conversation, so remove them.

IF YOU ARE ON A CELL PHONE AND YOU HAVE A BAD CONNECTION, YOU MIGHT DO ONE OF SEVERAL THINGS TO GET A CLEAR LINE OF COMMUNICATION. For these steps also work to get a connection with those we love too:

1. Move locations. Have you ever walked around trying to get a clear signal on your cell phone saying, “Can you hear me now?” In the same way, to keep relational communication lines clear, change your position. Set your perspective aside and put yourself in your mate’s shoes. Before you download your traumas onto your spouse, check in to see how his or her day has been. You might wait until a better time or show a little empathy. If you do have something important and pressing, offer to lighten your spouse’s load with a kind gesture first: Don’t say, “I have something I really need to talk to you about now,”. That might actually raise your spouse’s stress level and make the situation worse! Instead, offer kindness and assess his or her stress level. If he or she seems relaxed, then say, “Honey, sometime tonight I have something I need to run by you. Can you let me know when you have a minute to talk with me?” You’ll likely hear, “Sure, how about now?” or “How about right after dinner?” At worst, you may get a “Can it wait until tomorrow?” If it can, wait. If it really can’t, then explain it is time sensitive.

Generalizations: The words always and never are sure to put your mate on the defense. Watch out for sentences like, “You always say that” or “You never listen.” “Never” is a very long time, and using that word is a dramatic attempt to push buttons of guilt and results will rarely be positive. Rationalizations: These are excuses. They are often rebuttals or attempts to defend yourself and not take on any responsibility for the situation. Instead, offer a solution or system for working through the issue. “Honey, why don’t you go ﬁrst and explain to me how you are feeling and what you think is going on here? Then I’ll explain my point of view, and we’ll see where this leads us, okay?” 3. Call the operator. If your cell phone continued to have problems, you’d call the manufacturer or the operator to get help. If an argument is brewing, stop the conversation and call for help: • Call on God: Pray together for wisdom. • Call a mentor. Find someone older and wiser who has been through this situation and can offer helpful insights. • Call a professional. A pastor or a Christian counselor can be a mediator. • Call for a reservation: Attend a marriage conference and learn new tools to gain a breakthrough. S

FAITHPRINTS

CODE a servant leader’s OF HONOR

I HAVE A CODE OF HONOR FOR MY MINISTRY and I especially like to revisit it at

the beginning of each year. As I learn, either by instruction or from a mistake, I amend it. I want to share the condensed version with you. This Code is not meant to be legalistic code of dos and don’ts. It’s a means to protect the Lord’s reputation, my reputation, and those who are new believers or seekers from being offended. I want to share it with you so that it might serve as an example that will help you shape a Code of Honor, too.

considering everyone as beloved by God regardless of their sexual orientation, social status, race, religion, criminal record, addiction, or lifestyle. 9. I am a servant, not a master. My goal is to wash feet, not stand on a pedestal. 10. Since I am not a trained counselor, I will not take money to counsel someone. I will never take money to pray for or with someone. 11. What someone tells me in confidence remains private unless a crime was committed that by law I have to report.

1. When I quote Scripture in a teaching, I will look it up to be certain I am not twisting its context to make my point. I will try to memorize the passage so I quote it correctly.

12. I will not pretend to be perfect. But neither will I strip down to my emotional underwear to attract attention.

2. I will make sure that any teaching showcases Jesus and His truth, not me or my pet subject.

13. I will be transparent and accountable. When I’m wrong or hurt, I’ll admit it. If I make a public mistake, I’ll admit it publicly.

3. When I speak, I will not relate anecdotes about my children or husband without their permission.

14. I will be quick to apologize. I will seek restoration.

4. When I am a guest at a church, I will not publicly dispute doctrinal issues with which I disagree. I will conform to their social and religious customs provided they do not disagree with my basic faith tenets. 5. I will dress modestly in public at all times. I will not dress to call undue attention to myself or be distracting. 6. I will not be alone, meet, pray with, or privately counsel a member of the opposite sex who is not a close family member. If I do have a meeting, it will be in a public place or with someone else present. 7. I will not flirt in any way with a member of the opposite sex, except my hubby. Nor will I discuss anything of a private sexual nature with a member of the opposite sex. I will not laugh at suggestive stories or jokes. 8. I will love and treat others as I wish to be treated,

15. I will be scrupulously honest in any area that deals with money. I will take a loss rather than allow any suspicion of financial mishandling. 16. I will avoid personal habits (use of alcohol, smoking, gambling, overeating, etc.) that might cause others to sin. 17. I do not publicly discuss my own political views, but if someone asks privately, I will share my opinion. Whether I am in public or private, as Christian leaders we must be aware that we are representatives of Christ, and because He has entrusted us to teach His Word, our actions must serve to honor to Him as well as those we serve. S BY REBEKAH BINKLEY MONTGOMERY AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.rebekahmontgomery.com

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INSPIRED

CAROL KENT — SPEAKING UP FOR HOPE With the arrest of our son in 1999, heartache took on new meaning. We had never been on the needy side of compassion before and I experienced depression for the first time in my life. One day the doorbell rang and it was the florist. I opened the door and he said, “Is your name Carol Kent?” I said, “Yes it is.” He said, “Lady it’s your lucky day.” I wanted to tell him to go make somebody else’s day lucky; I wasn’t in the mood. He handed me a bouquet and I took it out to my kitchen island, opened it up, and there was one dozen, longstemmed yellow roses.

(R TO L)

CAROL, JASON & GENE KENT

I wondered who had graced my day with this beautiful gift and I opened the card. It was from two of my sisters. It said, “Dear Carol, you once gave us some decorating advice. You told us that yellow flowers will brighten any room. We thought you need a little yellow in your life right now. Love, Bonnie and Joy.” It was just like God unplugged my tears. I sobbed like I never had before and felt my grief. I once again admitted to God that I didn’t know how I could live through these circumstances, but I knew I could trust Him–especially since He had put family and friends in my life who felt my pain. I had never been so needy, but I had never felt so loved. During this painful journey, we came to a deeper understanding of God’s compassionate heart and how that was shaping our call. While He would never condone what my son did, His mercy and grace abound. Our eyes are open to a whole new world–the prison system. We now see needs we weren’t aware of before, and doors are opening to help some of the neediest people in our society. —CAROL KENT Carol shares this story in her book,When I Lay My Isaac Down. During this time, the Kents prayerfully established a non-profit organization, Speak up for Hope, to positively impact inmates and their families. / www.speakupforhope.org S

ERIN WEIDEMANN— A NEW KIND OF HERO In today’s world, the girls who are the loudest are the ones who get noticed. It’s Erin Weidemann heart to show girls that the can make a different kind of noise as she brings to light a new type of “Disney Princess” role model. She developed her new girls’ book series, The Adventures of Rooney Cruz, which is geared towards ages 6 to10, with this in mind.

ERIN & DAUGHTER ROONEY

“A life lived in kindness toward others is part of God’s special purpose for all of us. Self-sacrifice and putting the feelings and needs of others before our own are meaningful ways we can show real love.” —Ruth

Girls receive life-coaching inspiration from Bible heroines like Ruth, The Belle of Loyalty; Deborah, The Belle of Leadership; and Esther, The Belle of Patience who help them connect with core values to nurture their relationship with Jesus. Erin, a full-time teacher, mother, coach and five-time cancer survivor, was convinced that marriage and motherhood were not in her future, but God’s miracle-working power transformed her life! Erin’s heart is for girls around the world to know that with God nothing is impossible and be inspired to fulfill their God-given destiny. —LH STAFF / www.biblebelles.com S - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -{15.} ------ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

BY SUSAN B. MEAD @SUSANBMEAD AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.susanbmead.com

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Good Grief!

HOLDING YOUR FRIENDS CLOSE Birth and death, life and loss are woven into the fabric of our lives. We celebrate as a new life emerges from the womb and mourn with the one experiencing death and doom. Each of us knows someone dealing with loss and grief. Not the Charlie Brown “Good Grief!” kind of grief. The kind of grief that grips your heart and rips hope right out of you, bit by bit, piece by painful piece. Loss touches each one of us. It can be a: • Promotion missed at work

• Property (that precious lost pearl!) • Pet (your sweet pup/kitty) that passes away • Personal relationship with a dear friend which severs • Person – your grandmother, grandfather, mom, dad, aunt, uncle, sister, brother, friend or child dies Our peace is shattered. Our arms are emptied. Grief has the power to strengthen – or totally derail – our walk with God. An abyss remains where love once lived, dark, bleak and so deep it’s almost unfathomable.

And your sweet friend is there. Lost. Hopeless. Deep, dark abyss.

So how do you fathom the unfathomable to help? You know she needs a hand. Yet you wonder…Am I able to comfort and console or am I looking for help as I hold her hand and heart in mine? Three things will empower you to be a light. Bring them as you minister to your sweet friend.

YOURSELF Yep, it starts with YOU! You’re there for one purpose. To have ears open and heart centered on them and their needs, not your doubts. Your role is to be without judgment or advice. She may simply need to express herself to begin healing. So how do YOU do it? A friend who cares enough to simply BE with you is one of the most comforting things. Sitting in silence or letting them pour out their heart may be how they heal. Even King David needed to be heard as he poured out his heart to God. “Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament.” —Psalm 5:1 (NIV) Honor your friend with your presence. BE with them. “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” —Romans 12:15 (NIV)

Yes, mourn with them. “When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them. I chose the way for them and sat as their chief; I dwelt as a king among his troops; I was like one who comforts mourners.”—Job 29:24-25 (NIV) Trust God, knowing the light of your face will be precious as you comfort the one who mourns. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” —Ephesians 4:29 (NIV) Build them up according to their needs – not yours, mine or some preconceived idea of what needs to be said. Listen and trust God to lead you.

THE BIBLE The Bible - the magnificent, inerrant word of God. Give your dear friend the gift of a journaling Bible. One they can write or draw in as they journey the painful path of recovery. God’s Word soothes the savage soul, one loving word at a time. He will walk with them to a grace-filled place filled with His hope. “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” —Romans 12:2 (NIV) Renew your mind… Let the Word of God transform your friend’s grief, one gracious word at a time. I had to renew my mind daily after losing my younger son. We all need God’s word poured into our lives so we LIVE according to His word and will versus our own wounded way!

WORDS How rewarding is it when we bring a friend to the Word of God to guide them to words about comfort, mourning, loss, love, hope and joy? We place them safely into God’s hands. So be confident in (re)introducing your friend to His Word. Whether you’re with your friend or not, the Word of God can always be present. So teach them how to (re) search His Word – yes, even a long-time believer. Who makes a difference? God, His Son Jesus and the Holy Spirit – that’s Who intervenes on your friend’s behalf. As Bob Beaudine says, “You Got WHO!” Yes, indeed, The All Powerful Who. “Nehemiah said, ‘Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”—Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV) Oh, joy! Go, strengthened and equipped to hold your friend close, oh so close. S

COMING SOON TO THE PODCAST

S “WRITING THROUGH YOUR GRIEF” GET CONNECTED @LEADINGHEARTS.COM

BY MICHELLE S. COX @JUST18SUMMERS

JUST 18 SUMMERS

AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.Just18Summers.com

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MODELING GOD’S HEART

THE HOMELESS MAN HAD A CARDBOARD SIGN THAT SAID, “HUNGRY! NEED MONEY!”Our sons watched intently as we drove past. My husband pulled into the nearby McDonald’s, ordered burgers, fries, and a drink, and then drove back to where the homeless man sat. Paul walked up to the man and said, “Here’s some food for you. God bless you.”

The man had eaten most of a burger before we drove away. Our sons had a quiet lesson in compassion that day, just one of many they had from their dad through the years. They never saw Paul walk past a Salvation Army bell ringer at Christmas without seeing him dip into his billfold to put something in the bucket. They spent Saturdays with their dad building a ramp or doing other building projects for families who couldn’t afford to do them. They’ve been on mission trips with Paul and seen him cry about the dire situations many of the children lived in. Paul could have talked to the boys about compassion, but instead he lived it in front of them, planting seeds of love and caring in their young hearts. As parents, there are many traits we want to instill in our children before they become adults. We have to be intentional about planting the seeds for those character traits we want them to have. So what can we do? • Have conversations with our kids about compassion and how we can help others. • Lead by example. • Pick projects the family can do together— volunteering at a homeless shelter, doing yard work for the elderly, visiting a nursing home, taking meals to friends going through hard times, etc. • Let our children experience the joy of giving and doing for others. S

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Let your kids watch you worship through the pain and see what it looks like to co-labor with Him.â&#x20AC;?

ontinued on p. 23What’s your vision for the new COME ALIVE album geared to kids? What do you hope it brings to the families who hear it?

JENN & BRIAN JOHNSON

HUSBAND AND WIFE TEAM BRIAN AND JENN JOHNSON ARE WORSHIP LEADERS AND SONGWRITERS OUT OF BETHEL CHURCH IN REDDING, CALIFORNIA. THEIR CALL— TO RAISE UP A NEW GENERATION OF WORSHIPPERS, INCLUDING THEIR 3 CHILDREN, WHO WILL PASSIONATELY TAKE HOLD OF THEIR TRUE IDENTITY AND PURSUE INTIMACY WITH GOD ABOVE ALL ELSE. Have you guys seen any impact on the lives of your kids, or you as parents as a result of worship? Brian: What’s amazing about the grace of God is that you pray for your kids, and you do your best as a parent and then, you get to see them respond.

Jenn: Something that’s really celebrated, especially with this album is fun, and I think that we can never lose sight of the fact that there’s a fun element to worship. Yes there’s a reverence and there’s an awe, but – we have this saying that God is as happy as He is holy, and I think that that’s what we want to champion our kids in – that God is so fun and He is so wonderful. Just seeing that in the kids, seeing the fun and the raw and the real, that they’re not going to be into any fluff – I think it’s just incredible to watch that unfold. What is something that excites you about the next generation of worshipers? Brian: I feel like each generation grabs something more– they take from the previous generation of worship leaders and stack on it. I’m also seeing a power in worship that has been really unique to this generation– encounters, healing and deliverance. When kids get a hold of that power in worship, there’s just going to be more of the kingdom coming to earth. The church historically has been growing in creativity and worship. I think this generation craves something that’s real and that ministers to them on a personal level, regardless of what’s been popular before. They are grabbing onto something that won’t compete, but will allow the church to use that inspiration from God to put out creativity that the world is looking for. The wineskin is being structured now, so that the next generation can hold even more. Jenn: I’ve been thinking about the next generation of worshipers, because we have young kids— ages 8, 10 and 13. We are really passionate about not just catering to adults in worship, but to championing our kids and kids in our community in worship. Modeling for them what a posture of worship looks like and encouraging them to step into those moments. It’s really beautiful to see this forward motion to what worship is turning into.

Like the other night, my son woke me up and is just freaking out because he had this nightmare and he says, “Dad can you put some worship music on?” So he’s learned that when the worship music is on, it’s peaceful, and I’ve taught him and talked to him about how when we worship, when we praise God, He inhabits our praise – He comes. He knows that now and he’s asking for it. That’s when you start realizing they’re having their own experience with God and I think that’s what’s fulfilling as a parent. -continued on p. 23- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -{21.} ------ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------What are some things you’ve experienced as you are

“Packed with prayer and promises, this book will free you to experience the POWER of GOD’S PEACE.” —LYSA LYSA TERKEURST TERKEURST, New York Times bestselling author of Unglued and president of Proverbs 31 Ministries

he true remedy to stress, Linda Evans Shepherd says, is prayer. In this inspiring book, she shows you how to recognize God’s continual presence in your life and yield your troubles to the Prince of Peace. Through captivating stories, explorations of fascinating biblical characters, and examples of deeperthan-ever prayers, she brings within your grasp the peace that passes understanding. If you are overwhelmed by all of the urgent demands on your time, this book is your lifeline to true peace.

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-continued from p. 21teaching your kids to worship and hear His voice? Jenn: There are few things on the planet that make me happier than watching our kids hear or feel something from God. Being able to lead them to hear God’s voice is everything. Brian: You can’t control or force your kids to know God, even though every parent at some point probably tries that. The perfect parent would know the right balance between keeping them guarded from drama in life, but also exposing them to some of it so they can see God’s hand in your life and the world around them. You want them to see complete void without God and then see the light, when God comes through. Let your kids watch you worship through the pain and see what it looks like to co-labor with Him. What’s something that’s happened with you and your kids as they are learning to be in His presence? Brian: In my own life, I grew up seeing worship leaders and I learned from them by watching, not just by listening to them. What’s exciting about Bethel Music Kids is that kids will get to watch other kids worship God. Worship is a real expression of your heart to God. In a lot of churches and culture, worship can feel like it’s just for the adults. There can be a disconnect for the kids and we’re trying to bring them in to worship and encourage them to be caught up in worship, in His presence. What happens is that when our children are in the atmosphere of worship, even if it’s not a heart connection yet, they will encounter Him— they will grow into a heart of worship. S — KILEY HILL

WATCH “THIS IS AMAZING GRACE” HERE OR CLICK ON LINK BELOW HTTP://BIT.LY/1NKMUIO

IN THE LEAD

LEADERSHIP IN ACTION LAUGHTER INTERRUPTED THE SOUNDS OF PATRIOTIC MUSIC AS OUR FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION GOT UNDERWAY.

Folks smiled and hugged as they filled their plates with the southern-style picnic fare. Fried chicken, potato salad, cakes, pies. I looked out over the crowd, feeling happy and content to be with friends and family for this special day. Then I saw our pastor lift an overflowing trash sack out of the receptacle and tie the handles before taking it out to the dumpster. The pastor. The leader. The man in charge. With the trash. He might have asked someone else to do the task or direct an employee to handle the large bag. Instead, he served. And I knew I’d seen a real leader. A servant leader does the work—too. A servant leader places priority on the well-being of those she leads and gladly shares the glory for the accomplishments and successes.

Paul described a leader as a person who “equips the saints for the work of ministry, for the building of the body of Christ.”

To develop your servant-leadership muscle intentionally focus on these 5 elements: 1. Listen Dialogue over a cup of tea or coffee will make you aware of the internal heartbeat of your team. Talk to your team with a purpose—to learn what they need and how they feel. Ask questions and listen carefully to the answers. These conversations are best faceto-face. You will discover who needs encouragement, and you may uncover talents and abilities that you didn’t know about before. 2. Give Value to Every Person In Joy in the Journey, Alex Gee described Steve Haynor, “He was a great man because he served the least among us until we didn’t feel like the least anymore.” Many in your group will be outstanding team members and will be your best assets. But don’t overlook those who are quieter. With your encouragement and

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loving attention, these shy ones will shine bright. 3. Become a Mentor Helping others grow requires leaders to be selfless and to function as a guide, not a director. Do not be the boss by being bossy. Be a decision maker not a dictator. As your ministry grows, you will give some of your jobs to others on the team. It may not be easy to give up some tasks, because the team member will never do the job just like you would have done it. Instead of fretting, teach the skills and techniques you want the team member to exhibit. 4. Develop A Circle of Safety In his book, Leaders Eat Last, Simon Sinek describes the primary role of leadership as protection. Those on your team need the security of knowing that you as their leader will look out for them. Otherwise they will spend too much time and energy trying to protect themselves from the others on the team. Tell the team as a whole and individually that you trust them to do the job and will stand by them when they make decisions. Begin speaking in terms of “we” not “me” or “you.” Your team will soon be sharing values and a deep sense of empathy, trust, and cooperation. 5. Pamper the Team Paul used three verbs in his letter to the Thessalonians that should become three actions steps for you to pamper your team. The first verb is “encourage.” Give good feedback on jobs well-done. Appreciation is better than money, and respect is better than fancy titles. The second verb is “comfort.” If a team member feels unqualified or afraid, support her with assurances to build confidence. The third verb that Paul used is an important concept for leaders. The verb is “urge.” Give assignments to speak or take over a part of an event to those who have never done it before. Your belief in her will cause her to do more and do better than she knew she could. Improve your team by offering training sessions. Enroll them in a class for speakers or writers. Take a cooking class together. Take the group through a Bible study. As they grow, they will bond and excel. Jesus led a group of 12 who might have seemed incompetent, yet they changed the world. He spoke about the leaders in His day saying they abused their authority. Then He told the disciples, “not so with you.” The first shall be last and leaders become great by serving others.

Ken Blanchard, author of Lead Like Jesus, reminds us that servant leadership is a daily commitment and a lifelong journey. “Each day begins with a mindset focused on serving others and ends with an opportunity to reflect on how we have done. Asking God to examine our motives, to search our hearts and minds, keeps pride from taking root in our hearts and allows God God to continually shape us as servant leaders.” So lead with a servant’s heart and don’t forget to take out the trash. S

Let’s Talk

1. Make a list of your team members. Under each name, write the person’s best asset and contribution to the team. Now write a sentence describing how you could challenge each one to live fully in their strengths. 2. Assess your past year with these personal reflections: a. Did anyone quit the team this past year? If so, did I reach out to that person. b. Did anyone do an exceptional job in an area of ministry this year? If so, did I show my appreciation? c. Did anyone on the team seem to stay in the background without being noticed last year? Is so, what could I do to draw her out more this year? 3. Which one of the following ideas could you plan in the first quarter this year as a good starting point for you to become a servant leader? a. Take your team to a day spa for some pampering. b. Make coffee dates with individuals to spend quality time together. c. Plan a training session with your team on topic such as writing a devotional.—KAREN PORTER

BY KAREN PORTER @@KARENPORTER AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.karenporter.com

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BY SAUNDRA DALTON SMITH @DRDALTONSMITH AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.drdaltonsmith.com

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BODY COMPASSIONâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;

Loving YOU Prepares You to Love OTHERS ...

Each New Year my office overflows with women declaring this year to be the year they lose weight, eat healthy, and exercise regularly.

Unfortunately their excitement and enthusiasm to make the necessary changes have often faltered by February. The images of a thinner, slimmer body fade and the dissatisfaction with their current body rises exponentially. The body which takes us throughout every minute of every day should be a vessel we treasure, rather than a target for our harshest remarks. The size pants you wear should not affect the amount of respect your body receives. The hardest part of

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HEALTHTRACKS being a woman in the middle of a healthy lifestyle transition is finding the grace to love your body today. Have you ever wondered why we are so hard on ourselves? Deception is one of the enemy’s greatest tricks. The goal is to get you to see things through a glass darkly and not through the light of God’s love for you. What if instead of looking in the mirror and seeing flaws, you could look in the mirror and see beauty? The ability to be compassionate toward your own body prepares you to love and serve others more effectively. When you feel good about who you are, you are more likely to let your personality shine and to reach out to others. Body compassion is a must for every leader who wants God to expand her reach and influence. Those with body shame are more likely to pass up great opportunities for fear of being exposed. A woman who praises her body for all it does for her is a woman who will be ready to step into any challenge placed before her. Ready to stop criticizing your body for what it’s not and celebrating what it is?

If you still need more convincing here are 3 surprising things you can do this month to improve your relationship with your body. 1. Give away everything in your closet that you don’t like or that no longer fits. For many of us our closet is a reflection of my lifelong battle with weight. There are sizes ranging from our skinny days to the stretchy pants we resort to nothing else will do. Daily looking at a montage of your weight loss successes and failures is no way to start anyone’s day. Pack up every outfit from your past that no longer fits. You can store it out of sight if you just can’t give it away, but get it out of your visual field. Dress the body you have now, not the one you used to have or the one you wish you had. Your closet should only contain items which make your smile because you know they are outfits you can depend on to help you

complete your day. 2. Pamper the parts of your body you are least fond of. Negative self-talk has a self-sabotaging effect on the mind and body. Think about the things you say internally about yourself when you look in the mirror. If your best friend said those same things to you, would you still be friends? It’s time to change your internal dialogue. You can’t spend all day telling your thighs you hate them and then ask them to run 30 minutes on the treadmill. The mental damage has already been done. The next time you are tempted to criticize the cellulite on your thighs instead spend 5 minutes giving them a massage with a scented body cream. Thank God for legs that work and have the capacity to exercise. Then the next time you hop on the treadmill watch how you will be more grateful for the work and effort your legs expend to propel you forward into your destiny. 3. Use your body to serve the body. The body is capable of so much more than we give it credit. If you have become numb to the abilities of your body, find ways this month to use your body to serve the body of Christ. Get physical in your acts of servitude. Offer to give the walls of a local non-profit a fresh coat of paint. Walk your elderly neighbor’s dog for week. Volunteer to serve meals a few times each month at a soup kitchen or shelter. Run errands for those shut-in or disabled.

Body compassion begins with body appreciation. Be mindful as you perform these activities to the role your body plays in your ability to accomplish each task. The urge to judge and criticize your body will vanish when your body is busy building up the kingdom of God. You will begin to see it as one of your most valuable and precious resources. S

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BY MARY WINSLOW INDIVIDUAL/ FAMILY COUNSELOR

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ways to make your

SMALL GROUP A SAFE PLACE

THE CLOSER IT GOT TO NOON, THE HARDER MY HEART POUNDED. I waited in the

parking lot and watched as groups of men and women entered the building. After a deep breath and “Lord, help me”, I walked through the large double doors where the meeting was held. My anxiety quickly faded as the group leader warmly greeted me and introduced others in the room.

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For one hour, I heard stories from a diverse group of people: men, women, old and young with one thing in common, their addiction to alcohol. One by one, they went around the room and introduced themselves, “Hi, my name is (first name), and I’m an alcoholic.” Each shared intimate details of their lives: problems they had faced, battles they had overcome and, at times, failed. In a room full of strangers, I instantly felt at ease. I could not help but make a connection with how the church relates to others in the body of Christ, or rather how we should. James 5:16 says, “Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed” (The Message). We work so hard for people to see our good side. This is never truer than when we walk through the doors of the church. We don’t want others to see our shortcomings, our idiosyncrasies, or our junk. The truth is we all struggle with something. As followers of Christ, we don’t need to deny the fact that we have struggles. Rather, we can acknowledge our shortcomings, confess to each other, decide to turn our lives over to God and move forward. For this to happen, a warm, supportive and genuine climate must exist before anyone, especially teens and young adults, will feel enough trust to discuss the real issues in their lives. Following are nine ways to create a safe place* for your small group members—both young and old. 1. Provide a supportive nonjudgmental space. Afraid of rejection or of being misunderstood, so many struggle alone. We must learn to provide a safe place for them to discuss real issues without fear of rejection. 2. Be genuine. The ability to be real in relationships is so important in ministry. When we are attentive, respectful, and above all human, people will feel comfortable to share the struggles they face. 3. Show empathy. When we make a sincere attempt to understand and identify with the pain that someone is facing, we can help in the healing process.

the bigger picture. He’s the judge of all of us. We all face battles of some kind. It doesn’t do any good to heap condemnation on anyone who’s trying to work through their own issues. God created us and knows all of our shortcomings, yet He still loves us. 5. Communicate acceptance and show love. People need to be loved just because. They need to know that they can be themselves. Actively establish a warm, accepting, understanding relationship with your small group members. 6. Be a friend. Friends are a much-needed resource. 7. Share from your life. You may not be able to relate exactly, but you have experienced your own personal struggles. As you share, you help put problems into perspective and give hope for overcoming them. 8. Care enough to confront. Love enough to give honest feedback, but be sure to speak the truth in love. 9. Instill hope and lead them to resources that will help. It has been said you can live 40 days without food, 4 days without water, 4 minutes without air but you can’t live 4 seconds without hope. Be an encourager. Let them know that you will walk with them during the difficult time that they are facing. My visit to Alcoholics Anonymous changed my view on life and how I choose to interact with others. At the close of the meeting, we met in a circle, held hands and recited “The Lord’s Prayer.” As I gathered my things to leave, a woman who has been sober for over 25 years stopped to talk with me about her struggle with alcohol. She said, “I could go to 100 different people if I ever needed help.” It is my prayer that as followers of Christ, and as leaders we will create the kind of warm, supportive, and loving climate so that students will feel comfortable to discuss the real issues in their lives and find help, hope and healing. S *Clergy must maintain the confidentiality of pastoral communication. However, it is appropriate to disclose when there is a clear and substantial risk of imminent serious harm being inflicted upon him or herself or on another person.

4. Always err on the side of grace. God knows

— t h g u o h t r o f d foo LIFE BYTES

DELIGHT IN THE SIMPLE THINGS

BY PENELOPE CARLEVATO @TEATIMEPEN AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.PenelopesTeaTime.com

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LOVEMORE IS 14 AND LIVES IN AN ORPHANAGE IN ZIMBABWE, ONE OF THE POOREST COUNTRIES IN AFRICA. HE LOVES TO DRAW AND HAS DREAMS OF BECOMING A PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL PLAYER. Ellen is 18, and she shares her parents with Lovemore and the other 65 orphans entrusted to their care. Even though my husband and I have never met them, Ellen and Lovemore are so appreciative of the letters and little things we send—especially backpacks for school. We take great delight in praying for the children who have a tremendous love for Christ. The letters Lovemore and Ellen send us are upbeat and encouraging and remind us how blessed we are to be living in America. Our friends John and Sue, host two short-term mission trips each year to the orphanage in Zimbabwe to support, encourage, and build friendships with the children. We are so thankful for this friendship that also brought Ellen and Lovemore into our lives.

It’s not often that my husband and I get to see John and Sue, but when we do I make this cake for teatime. It’s an easy recipe, moist and yummy and sure to please everyone.

Lemon Coconut Poppy Seed Bundt Cake 1/3 cup poppy seeds ¼ cup milk 1 package lemon cake mix 1 package instant lemon or vanilla pudding mix (not sugar-free) 1 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon coconut extract 1/2 cup water ½ cup vegetable oil 4 eggs Soak the poppy seeds in the milk for 1 to 2 hours. Preheat oven to 350º F

Grease well with baking spray a 10-inch Bundt cake pan. (It is best to do this just before putting the cake mixture into the pan to prevent pooling of the spray.) In a large bowl, stir together the cake mix and pudding mix. In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, extract, water, oil, and eggs. Add to the dry mix. Beat at low speed until well blended. Scrape bowl often and continue to beat for 4 minutes on medium speed. Blend in poppy seed and milk mixture. Pour into prepared Bundt pan. Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. Check before the hour is up to prevent over baking. Cool in pan for 20 to 30 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely, right side up. Cake can be dusted with confectioners sugar before serving, or can be served with the following glaze. Glaze: ¼ cup lemon juice 2 ½ cups confectioners sugar. (sifted or large lumps removed) Mix the juice with the sugar until smooth. You can either pour the glaze over cake when it is completely cooled, or pour while the cake is still warm so to soak the glaze into the cake. Yummy either way. S For more about John and Sue’s ministry, visit www.Ebenezer-ministries.org

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— p u g n i shap LIFE BYTES

BY ANGELA BREIDENBACH @ANGBREIDENBACH AUTHOR/COACH/SPEAKER www.AngelaBreidenbach.com

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SHAPING UP STEWARDSHIP

THE MOST DIFFICULT ELEMENT ABOUT EXERCISE ISN’T USUALLY A LACK OF TIME. It’s a misunderstanding

about stewardship. We tightly pack stewardship into the pocket of money and talents. But stewardship is an all-encompassing concept that reaches every corner of our lives. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle has to start in the mind. All action starts first as a thought. The difference in people who exercise, and those who don’t, is mental perception.

Is it work and drudgery or is it a joyful expression of thanks and stewardship for the body God gave us? If actions are a result of how we think, then how we think leads to a positive or negative attitude. That attitude determines whether we will participate in healthy, fun physical movement — or not. Willingness to participate in exercise, and the excuses to avoid it, both start in the same place. Let’s consider our bodies as gifts that need batteries. Negative attitudes are when our battery is in upside down. An attitude shift is like flipping the battery over. Voilá! Suddenly the gift has a power source and comes to life. Confidence, capability and courage come through honing and protecting the only body God gave us to follow His will. Treat movement as a valuable relationship builder by doing fun things with friends and family and as a joyful experience to help reach peak stewardship. Think positively about physical movement and it’ll be a continuously recharging battery.

A Stewardship Moment— 1.What does the Parable of the Talents mean to you? 2. What negative thoughts have kept you from the joy of physical movement and stewardship of your body? 3. What new thoughts do you have toward moving your body? 4. What is something new you can incorporate into your daily life to increase your movement? S

— e m i t f o r e t t a am LIFE BYTES

THE CALL TO SERVICE

BY KAREN WHITING @KARENHWHITING AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.KarenWhiting.com

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on efforts and achievements, encouraged them, and listened to them. When one young man dropped out and avoided me at church I sought him out and said I understood if he made new choices and wanted to leave. I kept up a relationship and supported his new choices. He learned how to graciously make changes and maintain connections. A few years later he rejoined. It’s important to care about individuals and their personal needs and dreams. Here are some habits that helped me cultivate the heart of servant leadership:

MY TIME LEADING A PUPPET MINISTRY FOR GROUP OF TEENS NOT ONLY WAS ONE OF MY GREATEST JOYS, it taught me so much about what it meant to be a servant leader.

I focused on training the youth to become the leaders while I faded more into the background as an advisor. The best use of time as a leader is investing in the people you lead and drawing the best out of them. Once I trained the initial puppeteers, I set up a program for the experienced ones to train new recruits, using each person’s strengths. I also scheduled meetings to develop ideas for shows and used the time to let the teens learn to plan performances. Beyond the actual ministry, I also worked at mentoring my group members. I complimented them

• Thank God for each of the people you lead daily. Ask Him for the wisdom to lead them. • Focus during midday on one person who needs thanks. Consider ways to be specific in praise and thanks. So, “I like how you organized the inventory.” • Cultivate trust by drawing out people’s strengths. This shows you take time to understand the individual. • Help people with life issues. Show you care about more than performance. • Motivate and encourage people instead of dictating a list of commands. • Develop collective team-focus that refrains from a “that’s not my job” mentality. • Use long-term thinking. Jesus focused not on his death, but on heaven. Concentrate on outcomes and visions for the future. • Act with humility. Instead of wanting to be center front, allow others to lead, present, and train. • Cultivate joy and laughter with smiles and finding the good in the work and the people. • Knows the true purpose of the business or ministry. Know who will benefit and why. Evaluate together how to best stay on course and meet goals that fulfill that purpose. S

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BY ATHENA DEAN HOLTZ @REDEMPTIONPRESS AUTHOR COACH/ PUBLISHER www.Redemption-Press.com

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Before You Self-Publish,

CONSIDER THIS

COMING SOON TO THE PODCAST “DIY PUBLISHING: KNOW THE FACTS” GET CONNECTED @LEADINGHEARTS.COM

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WITH ALL THE AVAILABLE OPTIONS, HOW CAN YOU BE SURE YOU’RE HEADED DOWN THE RIGHT PATH TO PUBLICATION? In today’s market, you can upload an unedited word document, create your own cover from a free template, and become a published author overnight for very little cost … or so it seems. The truth is, you never have a second chance to make a good first impression, so it actually could cost you in lost sales due to a finished product that lacks credibility.

3) Make your title sing. Don’t try to say too much in your title or on your cover. Oftentimes authors try to communicate too much or be too symbolic and end up losing the potential reader. Be open to advice on the best title and cover so that you make the most of this important opportunity to put your best foot forward. 4) Develop a strategy. Determine who will benefit the most from your message and create a plan to market directly to that reader. The more books you sell directly to the consumer (without a bookstore involved as a middle man) the more flexibility you have, to either reduce the price or increase your profit margin.

So, what can you do to insure your publishing experience is professional, adding value to your ministry and expanding your platform for greater opportunity to touch lives? Follow these steps to avoid costly mistakes in this exciting journey. 1) Do your homework. Too many aspiring authors take the promises offered on a publishing website at face value. Unfortunately there are many snakes in the publishing jungle, so educate yourself and make sure the sales pitch lines up with the fine print of their contract. Too often it does not. One helpful resource is a webinar I presented entitled The Publishing Jungle. 2) Don’t trust your own eyes. A professional edit is one of the most important steps in the publishing process and should never be skipped. A second or third set of eyes, someone who is trained in the Chicago Manual of Style, is vital. They should be an experienced editor whose heart is set on helping you improve your message without taking away your “voice.” Sometimes the most cost effective way to make your message the best it can be includes an evaluation and coaching to help you (instead of the editor) make the needed revisions. This can help you, as the author, improve your manuscript, and become a much better writer in the process.

5) Be available everywhere. You should have access to all distribution channels, secular and Christian, so your book is convenient for anyone to purchase. Make sure your product is returnable, so that you have no barrier to being carried in stores. Whatever you do, set your retail price at a reasonable level and don’t allow your publisher to set it so high that you lose potential customers because of the price point. Follow these steps and bathe your decisions in prayer, staying teachable and sensitive to the Holy Spirit. As you determine the best way to get your message out, He will be glorified and you will be blessed, as will your readers! S

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When God calls you to pray,

what will your answer be? In Called to Pray Pray, Linda Evans Shepherd shares dozens of inspiring true stories of people who have heeded God’s call to pray and the astonishing results of those impromptu prayers. Through accounts of people being protected from harm and rescued from danger, of needs being met and hearts being encouraged, you’ll see that God is involved in an active and dynamic relationship with us—and that we can be part of his plan to bless others.

GottoPray.com

Available wherever books and ebooks are sold.

PRAYER CIRCLE her temple, and just as she begin to squeeze the trigger, she heard the words, “Sandy, don’t!” The words, which seemed to come out of nowhere, jarred her back to her senses and she sobbed as she packed the gun back into the shoebox.

prayer-

DIVINE LOVE IN MOTION

HAVE YOU EVER HAD A REALLY ROUGH TIME OF IT, THEN LATER RECEIVED A CALL FROM A FRIEND SAYING,“THE LORD HAD ME PRAYING FOR YOU, WHAT’S GOING ON?” It’s a mysterious puzzle, a puzzle I wrote about in story after story in my book Called to Pray; Astounding Stories of Answered Prayer. Take the story of Sandy for instance. She was a young mother back in the fifties who had thought the smooch at the end of her wedding meant eternal wedded bliss. At least, that’s what she’d thought before the babies came. Now with an always-at-work husband, and two crying babies, she struggled with what she now knows was postpartum depression. One night, about ten o’clock, when her husband had to work late, she pulled down a shoebox from her bedroom closet and took out her husband’s Colt Python. With trembling hands, she held the gun to

She later explained, “That night I cried myself to sleep, terrified of what I’d attempted to do.” The next morning, as she watched her husband walk toward the bus stop, the phone rang. She picked up the receiver and even before she could say hello, her mother blurted, “What was going on with you last night about ten o’clock? The Lord got me out of bed and had me on my knees calling out for you in prayer.” Sandy closed her eyes. “Sandy?” “I’m okay mom. At least, I am now.” That morning, Sandy realized God did care. He’d knocked her mother to her knees to pray for her in her most desperate hour and it saved her life. Did God really need Sandy’s mother to pray in order to do a miracle in Sandy’s life? It’s a bit of a mystery but I believe he calls us to pray because he wants to answer our prayers. It’s his way to keep us in divine connection with him. So the next time you feel a nudge to pray for someone, or you begin to entertain a stray worry, stop and pray! As I said in Called to Pray, “As we continue in our prayers, God continues to use our prayers to light the way for others as well as for ourselves.” Dear Lord, Thank you that you are calling me to not only pray for others, you are calling me to pray for myself. First, I thank you that my times of trouble won’t last forever. I also pray for any family member or friend who is tempted to take their life. I pray they will trust in you and live. In Jesus’s name Amen S To receive a free Prayer Toolbox filled with warfare prayers to pray over you and your loved ones, text LEADINGHEARTS to 95577. —LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD

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BY RHONDA RHEA @RHONDARHEA HUMOR COLUMNIST

www.RhondaRhea.com

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There’s one goal in particular, however, that I never want to play around with—a goal to set and leave firmly in place. It’s my Crossfit goal. And before you think I am going to finish 2016 by benchpressing a small automobile, I’ll be completely honest. However, when you read the next sentence you might think benchpressing the car is a bit easier.

CROSSFIT CHANGED MY LIFE I START A NEW FITNESS ROUTINE AROUND THE FIRST OF EVERY YEAR WITH SEVERAL THOUSAND OF MY LIKE-MINDED AND LIKE-SQUISHY AMERICAN FRIENDS. The new routine usually begins with the ceremonial setting of the 1200-calories-per-day goal. It’s a moving ceremony with no small amount of tears, but at least there’s a goal. Of course, being the goal-oriented kind of person I am, by the second week I’m meeting my 1200-calorie goal without fail. I’m meeting it before lunch, but still. I like to think that makes me an overachiever.

To hold to the New Year’s traditions I’ve long kept, I also think long and hard about joining a gym. Sometimes I actually go so far as to enroll. I figure the fitness centers with the fanciest machines are best, so I usually pick one of those. But how much would it reveal about me if I told you that my favorite machine at the gym is still the candy machine?

This kind of Crossfit isn’t about developing abs of steel—it’s the goal of holiness. The goal of growing to look more like Jesus. And it’s the banner goal that flies over every other little goal in life. It’s funny how once we truly understand the goal of godly living, distractions in life are so much easier to sort out of our day, and they lose their power to rob us of our fruitfulness. Making godliness our goal involves becoming more and more disciplined in all those things that promote holy living. It includes being faithful in reading and studying God’s word, in staying connected to Him in prayer, in plugging into a Bible-believing church, in loving and serving others in His name and in sharing Christ with those who don’t know Him. Training to meet the holy living goal has forever benefits. First Timothy 4:7-8 says to “Train yourself in godliness, for the training of the body has a limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (HCSB). This means my membership card to even the most exclusive uptown gym won’t really impress anyone on the other side of Glory. Staying in shape physically is good. But working toward the goal of staying in shape spiritually—the goal of Christ-like, holy living—has benefits for us that reach right into eternity. Incidentally, I’ve been rethinking some of those non-eternal, calorie-type goals. I just found out that my favorite morning cup of mocha has enough calories to take up my allowance through mid-afternoon. Of next Tuesday. S

ON THE PODCAST

“MINISTRY DETOURS”

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TERRY WHALIN @TERRYWHALIN LEADING HEARTS BOOK REVIEWER www.terrywhalin.com

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BOOKS TO READ 9 TRAITS OF A LIFE-GIVING MARRIAGE by Sue Detweiler If we’re honest, marriage is not easy for any couple. Sue Detweiler writes about nine characteristics for every marriage. The book is an easy read which combines biblical truth with practical how-to information. I loved this quote from page 86, “Grace is the balm that brings healing from the imperfections each spouse brings to the marriage.” In the conclusion, she writes,”When you review these nine traits, please do so with the faith that in the areas where your marriage presently falls short, God is able to transform you and your relationship by His power.” (page 103) I highly recommend this book. RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 STARS

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REVIEWS

THE OLOGY: ANCIENT TRUTHS, EVER NEW by Marty Machowski How do you explain spiritual truths to your child? The Bible is not an easy book to share with children. Marty Machowski has written, The Ology. a remarkable book for parents, Christian Education teachers or older children to read aloud. The biblical and excellent words are combined with amazing illustrations from Andy McGuire. The combined effort makes for a remarkable book which gives the essence of Christian theology for children. A dozen areas are covered in simple yet powerful words. I loved this book and highly recommend it. RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 STARS

THE PROFITABLE BUSINESS AUTHOR by Julie Anne Eason 80% of Americans say they are going to write a book at some point in their life. If you have been floundering and procrastinating then you need THE PROFITABLE BUSINESS AUTHOR. Each chapter is loaded with great insights for every author-and especially the author writing a business book. Long-time ghostwriter Julie Ann Eason has filled this book with her experienced information. Each chapter ends with a relevant case study. I loved the writing section which gives readers the secret sauce to getting out of stall and completing the manuscript. The sections on editing, publishing, distribution and marketing are each valuable. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve read shelves of how-to write books but never seen the information in this slim volume--anywhere. I highly recommend it. RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 STARS

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HEATHER VAN ALLEN @HEATHERVANALLEN LEADING HEARTS MUSIC REVIEWER ---------

MUSIC REVIEWS STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN Worship and Believe Steven Curtis Chapman, one of the best known and most-seasoned CCM artists will be releasing his 23rd studio album—but first worship album—Worship and Believe this March. With Matt Maher, Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin and members of Rend Collective helping with songwriting, SCC has put together 11 tracks (along with live versions of six of those tracks included on the deluxe edition) inspired by a season when he clung to worship music during a time of loss. I always loved singing worship songs and people responded when I’d sing them during shows. They were what I held on to so tightly when we lost our daughter…” Steven says’ Put Worship and Believe through your earbuds, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself replaying certain tracks over and over. RATING: 4.25 OUT OF 5 STARS

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REVIEWS

AUSTIN STONE WORSHIP This Glorious Grace This Glorious Grace, from Austin Stone Worship, the 70-plus member collective, from Austin Stone Community Church (Austin, Texas), brings us 11 tracks to refresh your worship time, whether corporately or individually. Recorded live, the album is the group’s seventh since the church started in 2002. “These are the songs our church is engaged with and the stories that are already happening. Each spotlights Christ alone. He can be seen in every song, heard in every lyric,” says Aaron Ivey, pastor of worship at the church. Consider letting Austin Stone Worship and This Glorious Grace help you focus your heart directly toward Jesus, in worship. RATING: 5 OUT OF 5 STARS

STU G Have You Heard Stu G, of Delirious? fame has released Have You Heard, a 20thanniversary remastering of a 1995 recording. Predating Stu’s Delirious? days, the nine-track album features each member of the original Delirious? lineup. The tracks have a ’90s-ish sound, with lots of guitar-backed energy and passion wrapped honesty that builds as the album progresses. The title track is the bouncy and jovial declaration of a young person ready to tell the world about the Good News of God’s love. The album includes revamped versions of songs “Rain” and “Rest.” The album also contains a live version of “Come As You Promise.” For a taste of a musical precursor to the forming of what eventually became the band that many equate with the birth of modern worship music, listen to Have You Heard. RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5 STARS

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“BUT, I’M AFRAID I’LL CRY.”

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“OVERCOMING PERFECTIONISM”

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AT TIMES WOMEN HAVE ASKED ME WHETHER THEY SHOULD ALLOW THEMSELVES TO CRY WHEN THEY’RE SPEAKING. Or they are afraid they’ll cry so much they won’t be able to communicate.

There are several points in my personal experience talk where I can become teary eyed, sometimes in joy, sometimes in frustration. Although I don’t fake tears, I try not to fight it when it comes. My natural tendency is to rush through that part and not reveal the emotion. I’ve learned to actually pause and allow myself to feel my emotions. And also let the silence rivet the audience to the moment. As I allow myself to feel the pain or joy, it impacts the audience. Frequently, tears come to their eyes also. If the Lord brings tears to your eyes, let them show. Allowing the audience to feel along with you gives the Holy Spirit an opportunity to break down any obstacles to what He wants to do in their lives. I have found that telling my touching story on Friday night of a women’s retreat creates a

greater atmosphere for vulnerability and deep sharing throughout the weekend among the women. By me sharing deeply about the pain of being a child abuser and how God delivered me, they are given permission to share their struggles and pain with others. Now, certainly, we don’t want to cry to the degree that we can’t continue speaking. If that seems possible, it may be your heart hasn’t healed enough from your trauma or emotional wound. I would advise you to let more time pass and allow God to give you a greater degree of healing. You can also practice giving your talk out loud or talking about your trauma to others. The more you talk about it, the less the possibility of it overwhelming you. By allowing the emotion to well up inside you and share it, you aren’t trying to force it down. Rejecting the feelings only stores them up for times when it’s inappropriate. Giving yourself permission to be real by sharing emotion may seem difficult, but the audience will relate to you more and give more glory to God. You’re not just the “perfect speaker” who hasn’t experienced difficulty. You’re a real human being with something important to share from your life that will help women. —KATHY COLLARD MILLER S

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TRUTH

SECURE IN A FATHER’S LOVE

AS I LOOK BACK AT THE MOMENTS I SPENT WITH MY FATHER, I REALIZE HOW MUCH HE LOVED ME.Although he’d tell me ‘no’

occassionally, that never deterred me from returning with a new request the next time I wanted something. Daddy would always figure out a way the make the really important things happen, and he’d do it with style. For example: • I graduated from recorder band to the elementary school orchestra in the fourth grade and decided I wanted to play the flute. Instead of having me borrow the instrument from the school, Daddy searched through the Sears catalog (everything was available through the Sears catalog in those days) to find one for me. The other kids had instruments in the

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ugly brown school cases with the school name stenciled on in white. I proudly carried my sleek, navy blue case with the shiny silver metal studs and red velvet lining. • When I was about 11-years-old I wanted my own grown-up Bible. Back we went to the Sears catalog. I’ll never forget the day he and I went to the catalog department of the store to pick up the precious new volume with the white leather cover and pictures from the Sistine Chapel throughout. (Yes, I still have it.) • When I was 15 and entering high school, Daddy was the senior pastor of a large, influential church in our city. The high school I longed to attend was outside of our district and permits to attend were hard to come by. Daddy to the rescue once again. He attended the first P.T.A. meeting of the year and got himself elected as P.T.A. president. The school had a prominent pastor serving in that position so it was a good idea to them to issue his daughter a permit to attend the school. Even with his many duties at the church, Daddy served my high school that year for me. Love is a verb, an action word. My daddy loved me and so he put his love into action. He wanted to provide things

BY SHARON NORRIS ELLIOTT @SANEWRITER AUTHOR/SPEAKER www.LifeThatMatters.net

--------and opportunities for me that would help me grow, succeed, and receive joy. With the perfect mix of love and discipline, my daddy’s life as a father was a perfect example of the love and discipline provided toward us by the Lord. Matthew 7:11 says, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” (NKJ) The exciting thing to know is that even when we don’t have earthly fathers to correct and to bless us, God our heavenly Father is there to take up that slack. Some fathers abdicate their positions, some are physically incapable, and all will eventually leave us in death. Still, God will always be there in that Father role. The Psalmist put it this way, “How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!” Psalm 139:17 (NKJ). Why not spend the day just basking in the love of God! S

features

ATHENA DEAN HOLTZ is a blogger, radio host, pastorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife, and publisher at Redemption Press. She enjoys coaching authors through the publishing process with excellence and empowering them to share the message God has given them. www.Redemption-Press.com

JULIE GORMAN is a John Maxwell Certified Coach, Trainer and Speaker. She writes, produces, and hosts a weekly Broadcast with FYI and is the founder of For Your Inspiration and His Love Extended Ministries. www.gormanleadership.com

meet linda

LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD @LINDASHEPHERD is publisher of Leading Hearts magazine. She is also a best-selling author, an in-demand speaker, and president of Right to the Heart ministries. She is founder of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA). She lives in Colorado with husband Paul, daughter Laura and son Jimmy. www.Sheppro.com

CAROL KENT is an award winning author and a gifted speaker. Her vibrant personality and relevant messages make her one of the top Christian communicators today. She is regularly featured on a wide variety of radio and television programs www.carolkent.org. KAREN PORTER is an international speaker and the author of six books and a successful business woman.She is president of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, serves on several boards, and coaches aspiring writers and speakers. She and her husband, George, own Bold Vision Books a Christian publishing company. www.karenporter.com PAM FARREL along with husband Bill are speakers and authors of 40 books including their newest: 7 Simple Skills for Success for Men. For more information visit www.LoveWise.com RHONDA RHEA is an author, humor columnist and radio personality. She lives in the St. Louis area with her pastor-hubs and has five grown children. www.rhondarhea.com

meet amber

AMBER WEIGAND-BUCKLEY @BAREFACEDGIRL is managing editor and art director for Leading Hearts magazine. She is a writer, speaker and multi-award winning editor, having spent 20 years in the magazine industry. When not working on Leading Hearts, she provides communications and social media support for non-profits and missionaries. She and her Brit-native husband Philip live in Missouri with their three daughters: Saffron, Imogen and Penelope.

MARY WINSLOW is an Individual and Family Counselor in Springfield, Missouri.

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ANGELA BRIEDENBACH is a captivating speaker, coach and award-winning author. Angela volunteers as the Christian Author Network’s president and executive assistant for the Montana-based Jadyn Fred Foundation.www.angelabreidenbach.com PENELOPE CARLEVATO is an author of Tea on the Titanic and First Class Etiquette. She speaks on hospitality, historical entertaining, and etiquette and manners for all ages and all occasions. Penelope lives in the Denver, CO. area and is the grandmother of 11. www.PenelopesTeaTime.com MICHELLE S. COX is an author and speaker and the creator of the Just 18 Summers® parenting resources and products.To visit her parenting blog go to www.just18summers.com and www.Facebook.com/just18summers. SHARON NORRIS ELLIOTT’S engaging yet challenging messages touch hearts and tickle the funny-bones of her audiences, making her a popular, sought-after speaker. She and husband James enjoy their empty nest in Southern California. www.lifethatmatters.net KATHY COLLARD MILLER is a speaker and author whose newest book Never Ever Be the Same: A New You Starts Today released in January. Find her at www.KathyCollardMiller.com REBEKAH BINKLEY MONTGOMERY is author of Faithprints. Find her online at www.rebekahmontgomery.com SAUNDRA DALTON SMITH is an internal medicine physician, author, and speaker. She shares with audiences nationwide on the topics of eliminating limiting emotions, breaking free from mental bondage, and helps others see God’s plan for them to live free in Christ. She is the founder of I Choose My Best Life, a movement to renew hope in a generation where depression, stress, and fear is peaking. www.ichoosemybestlife.com HEATHER VAN ALLEN, music review columnist for Leading Hearts magazine, finds some tunes in her earbuds to be a great way to get into the writing zone. She writes from her home in Springfield, MO. www.HeatherVanAllen.wordpress.com TERRY WHALIN is the author of 60 books through traditional publishers including Billy Graham: A Biography of America’s Greatest Evangelist (Morgan James Faith) . He has also been published in more than 50 magazines. Now Terry is an acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing, a NY based traditional publisher. Terry encourages writers of any level (from beginners to professionals) at www Right-Writing.com. KAREN WHITING is an international speaker, award-winning author of eighteen books and former television host. Check out her book, The One Year Devotions for Active Boys, that helps engage boys and sparks creativity. www.karenwhiting.com

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