Dang, James!

Last night I wrapped up a beautiful weekend—perfect weather, time with family and friends, and finally, some quiet moments in God’s Word. Specifically, I re-read the book of James.

A mentor once told me, “There is no good reading, only good re-reading.” I’ve found that James fits perfectly into that category. It’s a short book—just five chapters—but every line packs a serious punch. By the time I finished, I felt like I’d just gone twelve rounds. Every verse seemed to hit me right where I needed it.

I want to share a few of those hits—and hopefully encourage you to read this short book again for yourself this week.

Chapter 1’s Jab

James starts with a call for wisdom.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault…” (James 1:5)

That verse feels like a warm invitation. But then, in verse 6, comes the challenge:

“…when you ask, you must believe and not doubt…”

Ouch. James reminds us that our faith wavers easily. He later adds in verse 22:

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

There it is. Read the truth. Know the truth. Do what it says.

For much of my life, I missed one or more of those steps. These days, my struggle is step three—application. Reading and agreeing with God’s Word is easy. Living it daily is not. My doubts and fears often cloud my prayers. That’s why when I ask God for wisdom, I also need to be ready to walk in it.

God is faithful. He gives truth and direction. When He does, our part is simple—but not easy: listen and do what He says.

Chapter 3’s Jab

Not skipping Chapter 2 out of disrespect (there’s plenty there), but for today, I want to jump to Chapter 3: Taming the Tongue.

“The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.” (James 3:5–6)

Dang, James. You nailed it.

When I look back on where I’ve gone wrong in life, most of it traces back to my words, not my actions. Younger people often make physical mistakes. Adults? It’s usually our mouths that get us in trouble far before anything we do with our bodies.

This hit me hard. What comes out of my mouth needs to honor God and spread the love of Jesus. That means listening more, talking less—something I’m still working on.

God, thank You for the reminder.

Chapter 4’s Left Hook

James doesn’t just stop at wisdom and speech. He follows up with a strong word on submission and motive.

“When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” (James 4:3)

Convicting, right? How often are our prayers centered around our own comfort—security, success, safety, stability? We want to set up earthly protection, but that’s not the life Christ calls us to.

We’re called to boldness, not comfort. To live with urgency, knowing our time here is short. To seek Him, love Him, and make His love known to those who don’t yet know it.

That’s the treasure that matters. And in Chapter 5, James finishes the fight.

Chapter 5’s Knockout

“Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you… You have hoarded wealth in the last days.” (James 5:3)

That’s a gut punch. James warns against hoarding wealth and chasing luxury. How often do our prayers revolve around protecting our lifestyle, preserving our savings, or maintaining our comfort?

We pray about our businesses, our financial worries, our “nest eggs”—but how often do we pray for boldness, generosity, and faith?

James closes his book beautifully—with prayer.

“You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.” (James 5:8)
“Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray.” (James 5:13)
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)

Prayer connects us directly to God. It’s our lifeline. When we’re in trouble, when we’re sick, when we sin, when we celebrate—pray.

On my own, I’m not powerful or very effective. But Jesus is. It’s far better to walk into every situation with Him than to rely on my own strength.

So this week, I encourage you—read James. Slowly. Then read it again. Let it hit you. Let it shape you.

Read God’s Word. Seek its wisdom. And do what it says.

-Mark

Clear.

Clarity is one of the things I’ve sought more than almost anything else in life. And I know I’m not alone. I know dozens of leaders right now who are searching for clarity—some navigating complex business circumstances, others running teams that seem to be pulling in different directions, and still others re-evaluating what they’re even trying to achieve in the first place.

That’s normal, by the way.

Many ventures begin with a sense of competency in a particular field or a passion for a specific cause. Once things are in motion, the learning begins—and often, so does the questioning. Re-evaluating what you're trying to impact is not a sign of failure; it's a sign of growth. It’s healthy.

I’ve gotten this wrong in the past. But because of those mistakes, a few of the things I’m involved in today have become much clearer. Tithe Foundation is one of them.

What I love about the mission we’re on through Tithe Foundation is that it’s simple and clear:
"Honor God with our work, love our neighbor with proceeds, and help others do the same."

Missions that last typically revolve around just a few meaningful components. When those components are aligned, clarity becomes the foundation. Here are five key questions I’ve found essential to creating and sustaining clarity in any mission:

WHO?

Who should be on the mission? Just as importantly, who is the mission for?

WHY?

Why is the mission important enough to pursue? This answer can’t be manufactured—it has to come from something real.

WHERE?

Where is the impact focused? Are we going broad, or are we aiming to influence a specific place or group?

WHAT?

What actions will we take to fulfill the mission? Ideas must translate into action over time.

HOW?

What systems, rhythms, and accountability structures will we use to ensure we’re progressing and staying on course?

These questions may seem simple, but they’re not easy. If the answers are too vague or shallow, the cracks will show over time.

Let me walk you through how we’ve addressed each of these within Tithe Foundation:

OUR WHO

The mission is for Christ—to advance His Kingdom through our work.
Christian business leaders are on this mission with us, and more are welcome to join. There is room for all.
We carry this out by fueling local nonprofits so they have what they need to make an impact in their cause areas.

OUR WHY

Jesus says in Matthew 22:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.

Our mission is a direct response to this call.
We exist to honor God with all that we do and love those in need around us.
We believe this glorifies the gifts God has given us and the time He’s blessed us with on earth.

OUR WHERE

We work in our local markets.
We chose to stay local because we want to be the hands and feet of Jesus and witness the direct impact of our mission.
Our business partners know that our aim is to serve and uplift the very communities where we live and work.

OUR WHAT

We tithe.
Each business in our network has dedicated their work to God and committed to return the first 10% (or more) of company profits to Kingdom causes.
Many also give their time, encouraging employees to serve within select nonprofit uorganizations.
Money and time—poured out to meet real needs. Tracked, compiled, and distributed at agreed upon intervals.

OUR HOW

We give throughout the year and gather quarterly to vote on grant distributions.
Here’s how it works:

• Nonprofit partners apply for grants.

• Our internal team vets applications and nonprofit needs.

• The most impactful opportunities are presented to our business partners on a quarterly basis and in a specific and repeatable format.

• After fully understanding the needs, partners vote on grant awards.

• Distributions go out the very next day.

Impact is tracked and stories—both successes and struggles—are shared at each meeting.
Annually, we produce a full impact report for all partners to review and celebrate the year’s progress, while preparing for what’s ahead.

We don’t claim to be perfect.
But we aim to be clear.

If you’re a leader wrestling with uncertainty, I hope this framework helps.
If any of the five questions above haven’t been answered for your mission, start there!

One thing's for sure - your team needs clarity.
It may not be easy to define, but they crave it—and when you can help them understand the WHO, WHY, WHERE, WHAT, and HOW of your work, the momentum will follow.

-Mark

Break Pedals

Every now and then, taking your foot off the gas can be a very good thing.

I’m not talking about quitting your mission or giving something half-effort. I’m talking about hitting the brake pedal, intentionally, for the purpose of rest and recharge.

Last week, I had the opportunity to do just that with my family on a much-needed vacation. And let me tell you: nothing reveals where you really stand in your work, relationships, and personal well-being quite like slowing down.

Jesus did this, and I believe for very good reason.

Jesus Took Breaks on Purpose

Scripture shows us again and again that Jesus withdrew to isolated places (Luke 5:15–16). In Mark 6:30–32, after His disciples returned from ministry, He told them:

“Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31)

They got in a boat and went away, even though crowds were still pursuing them. Needs were great—but so was the need for sustainable rhythms.
Jesus didn’t model endless output. He modeled restful obedience and wisdom.

Even the Savior of the world paused.

What I Learned on the Brakes

This past week, I learned a few things in the slowdown:

• I realized how many things pull at my attention that really aren’t that important.

• I remembered what I love most about my daily pursuits in work, family, and ministry.

• I thought of people I hadn’t connected with in a while who matter deeply.

• Most of all, I invested fully in the ones who will one day sit in the front row at my funeral—my wife and my sons.

Break time and the brake pedal are powerful tools in the life of someone who wants to live and lead with intention.

Back in Action

I’m thankful to be back—and recharged.

Purposeful rest leads to purposeful next steps.
As the summer rolls on, I hope you get a day or two to tap the brakes. Not to drift off-course, but to regain your bearings and come back with clarity, joy, and energy.

Let’s not just run hard—let’s also rest well.

-Mark

Modern Parables

The Fisherman and the Businessman

Today’s story wasn’t chosen by me. It was handed to me, twice, from two different sources. That’s usually a sign that God wants me to hear something. And if that’s the case, I don’t want to leave you out. Maybe He wants you to hear it too!

It’s a story you may have heard. But it’s worth repeating.

There was a well-to-do American businessman in desperate need of a vacation. After pushing off a calendar full of meetings and responsibilities, he carved out time for a trip with his wife and kids to the Caribbean. They rented a beachside villa, packed their bags, and set off for a week of rest.

On their first day there, while sipping a drink under the sun, the businessman noticed a local fisherman heading to the beach. The man was skilled. Casting his line with ease, catching five large fish within a short time. Then, just as simply, he packed up and left.

The businessman noticed the same man return later in the day...this time with his family, laughing and enjoying the sunshine. The next day? Same routine. Catch a few fish. Head home. Spend time with loved ones.

By the third day, curiosity got the better of the businessman, and he struck up a conversation.

“I’ve watched you,” he said. “You catch just a few fish each day, then you’re done.”

The fisherman smiled. “It’s enough. A few for my family, a few to sell. We live comfortably.”

The businessman, intrigued, saw an opportunity.

“You know,” he began, “if you stayed out longer, caught more, you could sell more. In a month or two, you could afford a bigger boat. Then a second one. Eventually, you could build a small fleet, hire other fishermen, and grow a real operation.”

The fisherman raised an eyebrow. “And then?”

“Well,” the businessman continued, “you could start a distribution business, or open a restaurant. Then, once you scale enough, you wouldn’t have to fish at all. You’d just manage the company, maybe hire someone to do that, too.”

The fisherman smiled again. “And then what?”

“Then,” said the businessman with a sense of triumph, “You could relax. Spend time with your family. Enjoy the sunshine. Do what makes you happy.”

The fisherman chuckled and replied, “Sir… that’s what I’m doing right now.”

This modern-day parable is a gentle challenge to how we view success and contentment. I’ll be honest, I’m someone who sees good in chasing excellence. I've push hard throughout my career. Often to the point of exhaustion, but that's for another article. I believe in using our gifts fully and don't see anything wrong with that.

But I’ve noticed something: I tend to lose focus when I care more about what’s next than what’s now.

Maybe you’ve experienced that, too.

The truth is, God wants to meet us right where we are. Not just in the big plans for someday, but in the small, sacred moments of today. In the mundane. In the normal. In the overlooked.

Business teaches us to plan ahead. Next month’s pipeline, next quarter’s forecast, next year’s growth. And that’s not a bad thing. But don’t miss the ride. Don’t exchange what is for what could be.

I’m grateful this story found me again today.  And I hope it reaches you the way it reached me.

Have a fabulous weekend. Enjoy your family. Soak in the sunshine.

-Mark

Pouring Out and Pulling Back

At the end of a long week, what I look forward to most are the precious couple of hours I get with my family on Friday nights. They've become a needed reprieve as activities, responsibilities, and involvement have steadily increased over time.

For many of us, by the week's end, we’re spent. For some, it's physical exhaustion. For others, it's the mental toll of stressful situations. And for some, it’s something even deeper — the emotional strain of just trying to keep going, or maybe just trying to get along.

Lately, my actions have been very deliberate. I’ve chosen them. And I wouldn’t trade out a single one, individually. Each of them is aligned with the mission I’ve committed to live out in my work and in my life.

But collectively? They have a way of wearing me out.

And yet, pouring out, in my opinion, is what we’re meant to do. These efforts aren’t wasted — they’re purposeful. They’re part of something greater. But we must also remember to take our pull backs in an orderly, intentional fashion or we risk burning out entirely.

Jesus knew this. And He modeled it perfectly.

Let’s look at an example from Mark 6:30–32:

“The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’ So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.”

So, what's the context here?
The disciples had just returned from being sent out two-by-two to preach, heal, and cast out demons. They were spent — physically, emotionally, spiritually. Jesus Himself had just received the news that John the Baptist, His cousin, had been executed. The weight of ministry, grief, and fatigue was real.

And what does Jesus do?
He doesn’t say, “Let’s push through,” or “There’s still more to do.”
Instead, He says, “Come with me. Let’s rest.”

Not “Go rest” but “Come with me.” He invites them to pull back with Him...Not in isolation, but in relationship. To be in peace. In quiet. Together.

That’s not just leadership — that’s love. That’s family. That’s the voice of someone who understands the deep human need for connection and restoration after seasons of pouring out.

So today, as we reach another Friday night, I want to pat you on the back for the work you've poured yourself into this week. I congratulate you on the good you’ve done, the effort you’ve given, and the energy you’ve spent with purpose.

Now I encourage you: pull back. Even if it’s only for a little while.
Spend time with your family, with those you love most. Let it refill you.

Our leader in Christ showed us how to do it —
Let’s follow Him in that way, too.

-Mark

Delays, Deadlines, and To Do's: God's Timing Always Wins

God's Divine Timing is Never Off

This week, I’ve found myself stacking and prioritizing activities with a lot of differing deadlines. Some of what I’m working on needs to be done now, some needs to happen in a certain sequence, and some is reliant on others to complete their work so that larger plans can come together.  Most of us when looking at our "to do" lists want things done immediately. We also want things to be predictable and run smoothly.  We're normal - but this isn't always how it goes.  

I’ve learned over the years to trust God’s timing in the delays or when working through something complex. Somehow, it always seems to be what is needed, although usually only seen when zooming out and reflecting on actual outcomes.

I’m reminded of the story of Lazarus in the book of John. It's one of the clearest examples of how God’s timing, though different from human expectations, is absolutely perfect.

The Situation

Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, was very sick in Bethany. His sisters sent word to Jesus, saying, "Lord, the one you love is sick." (John 11:3). Given Jesus’ love for Lazarus and His reputation for healing, they expected Him to come immediately and prevent Lazarus from dying.

Jesus’ Response

Surprisingly, Jesus did not rush to Bethany. Instead, He stayed where He was for two more days (John 11:6). His reasoning? “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4).

From a human perspective, this delay seemed negligent. But Jesus was working on God’s divine schedule, not man’s.

The Outcome: A Greater Miracle

By the time Jesus arrived in Bethany, Lazarus had been dead for four days. This was significant because in Jewish tradition, it was believed that a person's spirit lingered near the body for three days. By day four, Lazarus was undeniably dead—his body had already begun to decay (John 11:39).

Martha and Mary were heartbroken. They both told Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” (John 11:21, 32). They believed in His power to heal, but their faith was limited.  They didn’t yet grasp that He had the power to reverse death itself.

Then, in front of a crowd of mourners, Jesus commanded the stone to be rolled away and called out, “Lazarus, come out!” (John 11:43). To everyone’s shock, Lazarus walked out of the tomb alive!

Why God's Timing Was Perfect

• A Bigger Miracle: If Jesus had healed Lazarus immediately, it would have been a great miracle, but raising a man from the dead after four days was an undeniable, world-changing display of divine power.

• Strengthened Faith: This event wasn’t just for Lazarus. It strengthened the faith of Mary, Martha, the disciples, and the onlookers, proving Jesus’ authority over death.

• Foreshadowing Jesus’ Own Resurrection: Just days later, Jesus Himself would rise from the grave. Raising Lazarus was a preview of His ultimate victory over death.

• God’s Glory Revealed: Jesus told the disciples from the start that this event was for God’s glory (John 11:4). If He had simply healed Lazarus earlier, the impact would not have been as profound.

Like Mary and Martha, we often want immediate answers to our prayers and immediate solutions to problems. But sometimes, God delays because He is setting up something even greater than we could imagine. His timing isn't just about solving problems—it’s about revealing His power, strengthening our faith, and glorifying Himself in the best way possible.

As long as we keep this in mind, we can more easily move through some of the complex business and personal to-do lists with the peace that Jesus brings. I hope this was a reminder for some of you, like it was for me, to continue to walk with Him and have faith in His timing.

-Mark

We Are What We Repeatedly Do

We Are What We Repeatedly Do

This quote, most often attributed to Aristotle, is one of the truest phrases I've ever heard. We are not what we think about. We are not what we say. We are certainly not what we desire, want, or complain about. But—we are also not what we do once in a while, from time to time. We are what we repeatedly do, consistently.

When you think about your reputation and how you would like to be perceived, you usually consider what you'd like others to be able to count on you for. When I think about those I trust most and can count on, I reflect on what their disciplines and dedications say about them. I almost never catch myself saying, "Let's contact John Doe for this or that—I saw him do it once." Instead, I ask, "Who is the trusted resource for what I'm looking for? Who has done this well for others in similar situations? Who has a track record of success in this area?"

When I think about those who inspire me, it's almost always due to a commitment they've made to a craft. We are what we repeatedly do. The person I most admire and try to emulate is Jesus. I fall massively short, but it is because of what He did over and over again that He is the ultimate inspiration for humanity. Repeatedly, He served. In Luke 22:24-27, Jesus tells us in His own words that He came not to be served, but to serve. He freely gave of Himself throughout His entire life, all the way until He gave His life up for the ransom of many.

Another thing that Jesus did repeatedly was to see and know those who were marginalized or overlooked. In Mark 2:17, Jesus tells us that it is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. He came for sinners so that we may know the love of God and turn to Him. Jesus also worked hard to fulfill His mission. He understood His purpose and tirelessly pursued it. Hard work is admirable when focused in the right direction.

Jesus consistently was present with those in front of Him. Whether at His table, at His feet, or in a crowd, those around Him likely felt like they were the most important person to Him at that moment. These things were repeated, important, and became the reputation now consistent with His name.

As I think about my reputation, I wonder what others would say about me. What is it that I am known for repeating? When others have a problem that I believe I can help solve, do they believe in my ability to do so? Am I the first name on their list, ready to be called? These are great thoughts to ponder.

Reader—today, take a look at your calendar. Reflect on what shows up most often. What is it that you are repeating? Rather than focusing on the perception you're trying to create, focus on the actions you consistently take. We all have the opportunity to do great work and influence those around us. We are what we repeatedly do! Let’s do something great!

-Mark

Efficiency vs. Curiosity: The Power of Informal Conversations

The Power of Informal Conversations: Efficiency vs. Curiosity. 

As leaders and members of teams, we often find ourselves in formal structures. Before we talk about the power of informality, I want to recognize some benefits of why the formalities of business often exist. They are required for almost any org type for three important reasons:

1. Consistency & Accountability – Formal meetings provide a predictable schedule and ensure that necessary information is ready for review.

2. Prioritization – They allow leaders to focus on critical topics rather than being distracted by urgent but less important matters.

3. Operational Flow – Formality ensures smooth communication and execution, preventing inefficiencies and chaos.

So, now that we’ve cleared the air that this isn’t an anti-structure hit piece, let’s discuss why informal conversations are crucial for sharing truth, expressing real feelings, and building culture.

Whenever I get an employee, business partner, or friend in a one-on-one or small-group setting, the entire dynamic shifts. We ask each other how we’re really doing. We talk about our weekends, our kids, and sometimes our struggles. The goal of the meetup transitions from simply getting things done to being genuinely curious about how things are going. These two approaches—efficiency versus curiosity—are often worlds apart.

Being genuinely curious is not an efficient process, but it has the power to get to the root of issues in a way that formal structures cannot. Let’s look at two powerful examples from the Bible where Jesus, in informal settings, reached the heart of an issue and transformed lives.

Example #1: Jesus and Nicodemus (John 3:1-21)

Nicodemus, a religious leader, comes to Jesus at night—away from the public eye—because he likely wants an honest, unfiltered discussion without the pressure of a formal setting. It’s here that Jesus shares the famous words: "You must be born again." The depth of their conversation is so significant that after Jesus' death, Nicodemus takes the great risk of helping to secure His body for burial alongside Joseph of Arimathea. This informal, deep dialogue led to real transformation.

Example #2: Jesus and the Woman at the Well (John 4:1-26)

Jesus speaks with the Samaritan woman at a well, not in a synagogue or temple. Because they’re in a relaxed, one-on-one setting, she opens up about her life. Jesus asks great questions, and in this informal setting, she is disarmed. Their conversation leads to one of the most powerful personal revelations of Jesus as the Messiah, and she in turn spreads the news to her entire community.

Applying This to Leadership

As a leader, make sure to schedule some "informal" time on your calendar. This can be as simple as taking an employee to lunch or inviting a small group of leaders out for an activity. Talk to your people enough that these moments feel natural. These interactions go a long way in building trust, surfacing deeper issues, and fostering true connection.

Formal meetings drive efficiency, but informal conversations drive transformation. Jesus, the greatest leader of all time, modeled this perfectly. Let’s follow His example.

-Mark

Staying Focused: Avoiding "Shiny Objects"

Staying Focused on God's Calling:

In the fast-paced world of business, leaders are often bombarded with opportunities, ideas, and pursuits that promise success, influence, or financial gain. Some of these paths align with God's calling, but others—what we might call "shiny objects"—are distractions wrapped in justification. These distractions can lead us away from our original mission, tempting us with what John describes as “the pride of life” (1 John 2:16).

Throughout the Bible, we see leaders who were called by God but allowed distractions to steer them off course. Their stories serve as cautionary tales, reminding us that there is always a cost to losing focus. Some were able to course correct, while others suffered irreversible consequences.

The Cost of Distraction

1. Samson – Strength Wasted on Selfish Desires
   Samson was chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines, yet he became consumed with his own desires, particularly for Philistine women. His infatuation with Delilah led to his downfall (Judges 16). Though he ultimately fulfilled his mission, it came at the cost of his strength, freedom, and life. His story warns us that unchecked desires can rob us of the effectiveness God intended for us.

2. Solomon – Wisdom Undone by Worldly Pursuits
   Solomon started well, asking God for wisdom rather than riches (1 Kings 3). However, as his wealth and influence grew, so did his distractions. He amassed wives, wealth, and idols, straying from the very God who blessed him. His divided heart led to a fractured kingdom. Solomon’s story teaches us that when we chase after the world’s definition of success, we risk losing what matters most.

3. Jonah – Running from Responsibility
   Jonah was given a clear mission: preach repentance to Nineveh. But instead of following God's call, he ran in the opposite direction (Jonah 1). Only after enduring a storm, being swallowed by a great fish, and repenting did he get back on course. His story shows that resisting God's calling can lead to unnecessary hardship, yet God is merciful when we realign with His will.

4. Peter – Distracted by Fear and Doubt
   Peter had the faith to step out of the boat, but when he saw the wind and waves, he began to sink (Matthew 14:28-31). His fear distracted him from Jesus. Like Peter, when we focus on the obstacles rather than God’s power, we lose our footing. Yet, Jesus was there to lift him up—a reminder that when we falter, God’s grace can restore us.

5. Demas – Trading Purpose for the Present World
   Paul lamented that Demas had abandoned him “because he loved this present world” (2 Timothy 4:10). Unlike others who course-corrected, Demas’ distraction cost him his place in God’s work. His story warns us that prioritizing earthly gain over eternal purpose can lead to spiritual abandonment.

6. Martha – Distracted by Busyness Over Presence
   Martha was so consumed with serving that she missed the better part—sitting at Jesus' feet (Luke 10:38-42). In business, we can become so focused on tasks and responsibilities that we neglect what matters most. Jesus reminded Martha that only one thing was truly necessary—Him.

Staying True to Our Calling

As business leaders, we must be vigilant against distractions that pull us away from God’s mission for our lives. Opportunities that seem promising on the surface may actually be detours that delay or diminish our effectiveness. To stay on course, we must:

• Pray for discernment – James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God. Through prayer, He will clarify which opportunities align with His will.

• Stay rooted in God’s Word – Regular time in Scripture keeps our perspective aligned with God’s purpose rather than worldly success.

• Surround ourselves with wise counsel – Proverbs 11:14 reminds us that “where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Seeking godly advice helps us avoid distractions.

• Examine our motives – Are we pursuing something for God’s glory or our own? Honest reflection will reveal whether we are being led by the Spirit or by selfish ambition.

Going Farther with God

We go farther when we go with God, rather than being led astray by distractions and temptations. If we are convicted about our purpose, we will recognize which opportunities to embrace and which to set aside. Just as Jesus remained focused on His mission despite temptations (Matthew 4:1-11), we too must stay the course.

Let us learn from the mistakes of those who veered off track and remain steadfast in the calling God has given us. Success in God's kingdom is not about chasing every opportunity—it’s about faithfully walking in the one He has ordained for us.

-Mark

A Christian’s Guide to Goal Setting

The Power of Prioritizing: A Christian’s Guide to Goal Setting

Goal setting and understanding the buckets in which we spend our time is one of the most impactful tools for creating a fulfilling lifestyle. Yet, for many of us, life’s demands can make it easy to fixate on one area while neglecting others. When we let a single aspect dominate our focus, it can overshadow all the good happening in the rest of our lives. That’s why defining a clear list of priorities that spans every area of life—and writing them down—is essential. Priorities bring clarity, focus, and balance, ensuring that when one area struggles, it doesn’t derail our entire outlook. For the Christian man or woman, our priorities begin and end with aligning our life with God’s will.

Let’s dive into this framework, starting with the foundational truth: our relationship with Jesus.

1. Jesus Time

Above all else, our relationship with Jesus should be our first priority. Matthew 6:33 reminds us to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” If we’re not in right standing with God, everything else in life will feel off balance. Daily time in prayer, reading Scripture, and worship isn’t just a “good idea”—it’s essential for a vibrant, God-centered life.

2. Marriage / Spouse (if Married)

For those who are married, your spouse is your earthly partner, your teammate, and your greatest ally in life’s journey. Being in lockstep with your spouse is vital to driving the rest of your life forward. Invest in this relationship—communicate openly, pray together, and protect your time with one another. Strong marriages lay the foundation for a thriving family and personal life.

3. Kids / Family

If you have children, your role as a parent is a sacred calling. Raising children in faith and love requires intentionality, patience, and dedication. Beyond children, nurturing your relationships with extended family helps create a strong support system that anchors your life.

4. Professional Goals

God calls us to work diligently and with excellence in whatever we do (Colossians 3:23). Having clear professional goals helps us steward our careers or vocations in a way that honors God and provides for our families. Whether it’s advancing in your career, starting a business, or pursuing a new skill, your work is a key part of living out your God-given purpose.

5. Financial Goals

Finances play a significant role in how we navigate life, and managing them wisely is a Biblical principle. Set clear goals for saving, budgeting, and allocating your funds. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” When your finances are in order, it’s easier to focus on other priorities without the stress of financial strain.

6. Giving / Generosity

Our finances are not just for us; they’re a tool to bless others. Are you tithing? Are you supporting ministries or giving offerings? True generosity flows from a heart that understands everything we have belongs to God. Look for ways to use your resources to serve others and further God’s kingdom.

7. Friendships

Investing in godly friendships is crucial for encouragement, accountability, and joy. Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Make it a priority to nurture the friendships that build you up and point you toward Christ.

8. Hobbies and Fun

Life is meant to be enjoyed, and recreation is a gift from God. Whether it’s fishing, painting, or gardening, hobbies can refresh your spirit and give you opportunities to connect with others. Don’t underestimate the importance of leisure in maintaining a balanced life.

9. Physical Fitness

Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Taking care of your physical health isn’t just about looking good—it’s about honoring God with the body He’s given you. Set goals to stay active, eat well, and prioritize rest to maintain your overall well-being.

God’s Blueprint for Priorities

When God gave the Israelites the Ten Commandments, He provided a model for how to live in alignment with His will. He wrote them down, made them simple and memorable, and gave them a visible place in their lives. Thousands of years later, those commandments remain a cornerstone of our faith.

Likewise, we should aim to make our priorities simple, impactful, and easy to remember. Write them down, post them somewhere visible, and revisit them regularly. A written list is a powerful tool for staying on track and remembering what matters most.

Life Is Short—Use Your Time Wisely

James 4:14 reminds us that life is a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Our time on earth is limited, and how we use it matters. By setting clear priorities, we can ensure we’re making the most of every moment and living in alignment with God’s plan.

This list is just a guide—but I hope it inspires you to think differently about goal setting in 2025. Let’s live intentionally, balancing all aspects of our lives, and putting Christ at the center of it all.

-Mark