Ministry Rhythms

EP 14 The Unhurried Pastor w/ Brian Croft

We're back at it (finally) and sat down with President and Founder of Practical Shepherding, Brian Croft to talk about his book; The Unhurried Pastor [https://www.amazon.com/Unhurried-Pastor-Productivity-Sustainable-prevention/dp/1784989576]. If you're a pastor that's feeling fatigued, frustrated and that there has to be a better way to fulfill your calling give this EP a listen. If you missed the network gathering we'd love to make a copy of Brian's book available to you, email us at the Association and we'll make sure you get a copy.  Are you looking for more training and encouragement? Consider joining the Practically Trained Pastors Cohort [https://practicalshepherding.com/cohort] which is accepting applications now. We're here to serve you Pastor and Ministry Leader - don't hesitate to reach out.

EP 13 Church Renewal - Biblical Target and Means

In this episode of the Ministry Rhythms Podcast, the team welcomes new Church Renewal Strategist Nick Lingle to unpack what true church renewal looks like—moving beyond strategy and structure to rekindle a deep, spiritual love for Jesus at the heart of congregational life. With insights from Andy Davis and practical reflections, the conversation centers on restoring spiritual health through biblical means. Resources Mentioned: * Revitalize by Andy Davis * Gospel Way Catechism – Thomas West & Trevin Wax * Falling in Love with Jesus – David Jackson (Free via NAMB)   Remember to like, subscribe, leave a comment or drop us a line.      Episode Timeline & Key Moments: [00:00 – 01:00] Welcome & Updates * Hosts return after a hiatus * Introduction of new staff: Nick Lingle, Church Renewal Strategist (Westwood Pastor, started June 1) [01:00 – 02:00] Why Church Renewal Matters * 80% of SBC churches (including 151 locally) need some degree of renewal * Renewal can be slight or extensive [02:00 – 03:30] Defining Church Renewal * Andy Davis' Definition: “The effort to restore by biblical means, a once healthy church from a present level of disease to a state of spiritual health as defined by the Word of God.” * Focus: Both means (biblical methods) and target (spiritual health) [03:30 – 05:00] Renewal vs. Church Planting * Difference between building from scratch and restoring something broken * Renewal requires reintroducing Scripture-based methods into stalled structures [05:00 – 07:30] The Heart of the Church * Warning signs of needing renewal: * Activity without love (Revelation letters, especially Ephesus) * Doctrinal correctness but relational coldness * Key question: "Has your love for God grown?" [07:30 – 09:30] Role of Worship & Affections * Worship gatherings should magnify the risen Christ * It’s not just about saying “good sermon,” but being moved by Jesus * Leaders must evaluate and nurture affections, not just actions [09:30 – 12:00] Discipleship & Love for Jesus * Renewal is hindered by deficient discipleship * Resources mentioned: * Gospel Way Catechism by Thomas West & Trevin Wax * Rhythms: Worship, Scripture, daily spiritual discipline * It's not about Sunday alone, but continual spiritual rhythms [12:00 – 14:30] What Crowds Out Spiritual Renewal * Concerns like finances, facilities, and survival often take center stage * Renewal must begin with spiritual vitality, not just strategic change [14:30 – 16:30] The Pastor’s Heart * Healthy churches begin with healthy pastors * Leaders must maintain their own vibrant walk with Christ * Organizational skill ≠ Spiritual leadership [16:30 – 18:30] Being With Jesus * Phrase from Tim Wheat (NAMB): “Be with Jesus” * Pastors must be spiritually present—not just programmatically active * Prioritizing time with Christ fuels authentic ministry [18:30 – 20:30] Lessons from a Child * Nick shares a conversation with his 8-year-old daughter: * “I love Jesus, I think about him, and I want to please him.” * A simple model for personal spiritual health [20:30 – 22:00] Final Thoughts & Resources * Books mentioned: * Revitalize by Andy Davis * Falling in Love with Jesus by David Jackson (NAMB – free resource) * Structural changes are helpful but secondary * True renewal is spiritual—it begins with the heart

EP12 Dealing with Discouragement w/special Guest Frank Lewis

Hey listeners! We're back with another great EP - this week Pastor Frank Lewis shares practical encouragement to pastors facing discouragement in ministry. If you're struggling in ministry don't hesitate to reach out for help, from a friend, fellow Pastor and to our Association. We have resources and assistance available for you and your family.  In this EP the following are mentioned: * The importance of rest * A great eating plan * Ministry Friends * Spiritual Disciplines  * The power of prayer, God's word and hymns Remember to leave us feedback and share with your friends.

EP 11 DISCOURAGEMENT AND DEPRESSION - PRACTICAL HELPS

In this EP they guys pick back up on their convo about discouragement and depression and turn toward exploring practical helps available to Pastors and ministry leaders.  Friends, exercise, good food, intentional conversations and medication. God can use any or all to bring remedy to those enduring heavy seasons. Mentioned in the Podcast * Spurgeon’s Sorrows [https://www.amazon.com/dp/1781915385/?bestFormat=true&k=spurgeon%27s%20sorrows&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_de_k0_1_9&crid=2W46X5HBLLQKD&sprefix=spurgeons] by Zach Eswine * NBA (Nashville Area) Pastor Cohorts [https://nashvillebaptists.com/how-we-help/leader-vitality/#cohorts] * Pastor’s Help Line [https://www.namb.net/resource/1-844-pastor1/] * Depression, Trauma and Medication [https://www.bobbickford.com/blog/depression-trauma-medicine-and-christian-response]  * Depression Medication [https://www.namb.net/church-replanting/resource/depression-redeemed-pt2-medication/]   If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, your leaders or for resources, we’re here to help.

EP 10 DISCOURAGEMENT AND DEPRESSION

The guys are back after a couple of week hiatus. This week's topic is a heavy one, but we talk about the substance in an encouraging way.  Depression and Discouragement are realities that every ministry leader will face at some point in their lives. * Discouragement: the temporary emotional and frustrating state of being down * Depression: the persistent and pervasive battle with strong, discouraging emotions  Bob referenced some of his writing here: * Depression Redeemed [https://www.namb.net/church-replanting/resource/depression-redeemed-pt-1-gratefulness/] * Depression and Medication [https://www.namb.net/church-replanting/resource/depression-redeemed-pt2-medication/] * Depression and Practical Helps [https://www.namb.net/church-replanting/resource/depression-redeemed-pt3-practical-helps/] Book Resource: Spurgeon's Sorrows [https://www.amazon.com/dp/1781915385/?bestFormat=true&k=spurgeon%27s%20sorrows&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_de_k0_1_14&crid=1GUEW6V0G7J32&sprefix=Spurgeon%27s%20Sor] by Zac Eswine If you are struggling, not sure where to turn, reach out for help. Your spouse or local supportive relationships should be primary. Should you require additional help reach out here, you can even call the Pastor Hotline for assistance. 1-844-PASTOR1 [https://www.namb.net/resource/1-844-pastor1/]