Church Encourager
Our hope at Church Encourager is to provide practical support to help pastors, churches and leaders have greater confidence, enthusiasm and strength in their lives and walk with God.
We are excited to announce that we are launching the Church Encourager Initiative to enhance leadership effectiveness, improve team dynamics, and reduce burnout among faith leaders. Use the button below to find out more about this exciting opportunity.
For Pastors and CHurch Leaders
Pastors and church leaders often experience high levels of stress and burnout, with limited access to personalized coaching and development tools. Many struggle with team conflicts, leadership challenges, and personal discouragement, leading to ineffective ministry and, in some cases, early resignation. We are launching the Church Encourager Initiative to enhance leadership effectiveness, improve team dynamics, and reduce burnout among faith leaders.
For Churches
Utilizing a process we call Virtual Church Spark we work with you through a series of steps to help pinpoint problems and offer solutions.
Books & Publications
Establishing a daily life of prayer and meditation on the Word of God are vital to the life and health of every believer. My devotional books help to incorporate proven Spiritual disciplines into your daily life.
Discipleship Training
Daily Psalt Intake
From the beginning, the church has used the Book fof Psalms (Psalter) as the center of its daily practice.
Discipleship Training
Daily Sage Intake
The Proverbs help to develop the way that we live our life “in Christ” in a fallen world on a broken planet.
Discipleship Training
Daily Strength Training
Have you prayed today? That is a question of four simple words that can help us to become a people of prayer.
Recent Church Encourager Posts
Kingdom Coming Part 8 with Discussion Guide
Kingdom Coming Part 8 Discussion Guide
Summary
The sermon focuses on the theme of peace as part of the Advent series, exploring how Jesus, the Prince of Peace, brings peace into our lives. It emphasizes the importance of having peace with God, peace within ourselves, and peace with others. The sermon draws from Isaiah 9:6-7, highlighting the prophecy of Jesus’ birth and His role in establishing everlasting peace. It encourages believers to pursue a deeper relationship with God to experience true peace, which transcends circumstances and conflicts.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You with open hearts, ready to receive Your word. We ask for Your presence to fill this space and for Your peace to settle in our hearts. Help us to be receptive to what You want to teach us today and guide our discussion to bring us closer to You and to each other. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is your favorite Christmas tradition and why?
Key Verses
- Isaiah 9:6-7
- Colossians 1:19-20
- John 14:27
- Philippians 4:7
Questions
- What does it mean to you that Jesus is called the Prince of Peace?
- How can we experience peace with God in our daily lives?
- In what ways can we find peace within ourselves amidst life’s challenges?
- Why is it often difficult to maintain peace with others, and how can we overcome these challenges?
- How does the prophecy in Isaiah 9:6-7 give us hope for the future?
- What role does prayer play in achieving peace in our lives?
- How can we be peacemakers in our communities and families?
- What steps can we take this week to pursue peace in a specific relationship?
Life Application
This week, identify one area in your life where you lack peace. Spend time in prayer, asking God to guide you in finding peace in that area. Take a practical step towards resolving any conflict or anxiety you may have.
Key Takeaways
- Jesus is the Prince of Peace, bringing reconciliation and harmony to all creation.
- True peace begins with a right relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
- Inner peace is achieved by anchoring our hearts and minds in God’s presence.
- Peace with others requires forgiveness and compassion, reflecting God’s love.
- Advent is a time to focus on the peace that Jesus brings and to prepare our hearts for His coming.
Ending Prayer
Lord, we thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding. As we leave this place, may Your peace guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Help us to be instruments of Your peace in the world, sharing Your love and grace with everyone we meet. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
Kingdom Coming Part 7 with Discussion Guide
Kingdom Coming Part 7 Discussion Guide
Summary
The sermon focuses on the theme of hope as part of the Advent season, drawing from the book of Isaiah. It emphasizes the importance of hope in the lives of believers, especially as we navigate the challenges of living in a fallen world. The message highlights the prophetic vision of a future where God’s kingdom is fully realized, and all nations come together in peace. The sermon encourages believers to anchor their hope in the promises of God and to live as people of hope, reflecting the light of Jesus in the world.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for gathering us here today. As we delve into Your Word, open our hearts and minds to receive the hope You offer. Help us to be receptive to Your guidance and to understand the depth of Your love and promises. May we leave this place encouraged and ready to share Your hope with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is one thing you are hopeful for this holiday season?
Key Verses
- Isaiah 2:1-5
- Revelation 21:22-27
- John 1:4-5
Questions
- What does hope mean to you personally?
- How does the promise of Jesus’ return influence your daily life?
- In what ways can we reflect the light of Jesus in our communities?
- How can understanding the biblical story enhance our celebration of Christmas?
- What are some practical ways to maintain hope during difficult times?
- How does the vision of peace in Isaiah 2 inspire you?
- What role does patience play in our walk with God?
- How can we support each other in being people of hope?
Life Application
This week, identify one area in your life where you need to hold onto hope. Pray and ask God to help you see His promises in that situation, and share your journey with a friend or family member.
Key Takeaways
- Hope is essential for navigating life’s challenges.
- The prophets spoke of a future where God’s kingdom is fully realized.
- Jesus’ first coming fulfilled many promises, giving us hope for His return.
- Living in hope means reflecting Jesus’ light in a dark world.
- Understanding the biblical narrative enriches our celebration of Advent.
Ending Prayer
Lord, thank You for the hope we have in You. As we go from this place, may Your light shine through us, bringing hope to those around us. Help us to live with the assurance of Your promises and to be a beacon of hope in our communities. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
Church Encourager
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