The Latest in Messages
In his book, The Art of Listening, influential philosopher and psychologist Erich Fromm (March 23, 1900–March 18, 1980) details the techniques, dynamics, and mindsets that make for an optimal listening relationship, in therapy and in life. “Listening,” Fromm argues “is an art like the understanding of poetry” and, like any art, has its own rules and norms. Drawing on his... Continue Reading
The Latest in Might
Only with a single-minded attention to Christ can we give up our fears and face our own true nature. As we come to realize that it is not we who live, but Christ who lives in us, that he is our true self, we can begin to experience freedom as children of God–Henri Nouwen Every... Continue Reading
The Latest in Movement
How do members actually think about major changes in the church? The “prospect theory” from behavioral economics can provide some insights. The prospect theory argues that most individuals do not weigh decisions objectively, rather, they are influenced by whether they think they have something to gain or something to lose. For instance, in a classic... Continue Reading
The Latest in Manpower
The Micromanager can be found in every organization, including and maybe especially in churches. Most every minister has a story to tell about a micromanager pastor. Why are pastors prone to becoming micromanagers? Micromanagement stems from insecurity and lack of trust, and pastors are often insecure and distrustful………and for good reason. No one is a... Continue Reading
The Latest in Measurement
Goal setting and the pursuit of goals is generally perceived as positive activities for any person or organization wishing to accomplish meaningful results. What is rarely acknowledged is the two disappointments that accompany the pursuit of goals. One of the two disappointments is that of failing to reach a goal. The other is when one... Continue Reading
The Latest in Maximization
There is a fundamental difference between ancient indigenous peoples, ancient Greeks, and modern Americans that provides timely insight for today’s church leaders. Today we are people of precept. We are rule and law driven society that relies on documents such as the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and laws passed by elected officials to bring... Continue Reading
The Latest in Methods
It is at times when problems seem insurmountable that churches and organizations most need to focus on a positive vision for the future, rather than merely avoiding a negative one. Behavioral research has shown that when groups focus on solving problems, they soon become depressed and anxious, but when they formulate plans by working backward... Continue Reading
The Latest in Mission
When I encounter a church or organization struggling with discovering an effective vision, I often share with them a story from the movie, Gandhi. In the early part of his career, Mohandas Gandhi was encouraged to become involved in politics. Instead, he went on a long train journey visiting the farms and villages throughout India.... Continue Reading
The Latest in Meetings
I know, all the church needs is another committee and another meeting to attend. That is my general sentiment as well, but there is one committee lacking in most congregations that is worth considering…..a Clearness Committee. A Clearness Committee is designed to provide a spiritual community approach to personal discernment, and comes from the Quaker... Continue Reading
The Latest in Money
In the article, “Church Staffing Levels – Getting It Right,” we examined the effect of Parkinson’s First Law, “work expands to fill the time allotted” and its application to church staffing. A corollary is Parkinson’s Second Law, “expenditures rise to meet income,” a law that has application to church budgets and expenditures. Northcote Parkinson’s satirical... Continue Reading
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Jim is a Church Organizational Leadership and Management Coach, Consultant and Trainer. Throughout his career Jim has demonstrated a passion for showing Pastors and Ministers how to use organizational tools for church and personal growth and health.
More About Jim“For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ.” Colossians 2:5