Relevant Ministry

Transformation and reaching the goal

2012-05-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Nelson Roth
The tenth of the ten Nehemiah responses is transformation. The transformation response is that new place that you’ve come to personally because you've worked through the process and have made right responses to get to where you wanted to go.

The transformation from where you once were to where you are now can be seen in the process of what it takes for a caterpillar to become a butterfly.

So, you’ve reached your goal. What kind of person should you be now?

Here’s an excerpt from chapter ten (page 132) of Nehemiah Response:

In the three months that it took them to rebuild the wall, they had experienced God in incredible ways. They had experienced his power, his provision, and his protection. The rebuilding led to renewal and celebration, and they wanted more. Their desire for more wasn’t about selfish ambitions; they had figured out what life is all about. They were ready for commitment and change. They’d risen above the physical realm where we so often spend our time. They had experienced God in a whole new spiritual way!

So it’s time to spread your wings and fly, what can we learn from the people in Nehemiah’s day?

When they arrived at their goal, they took time to count their blessings.

They realized that they had gotten to where they were because of God’s commitment to them and they chose in return to commitment to him.

They were willing to make changes in their lives required by their new commitment.

“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

What is your response to your personal blessings?

How can you mirror God’s commitment to you, back to him?

What is something that you should be changing to be a transformed person and how are you going to do it?

Feel free to comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

It’s a mystery

2012-05-16T09:44:00.000-05:00

by Pam Roth
For almost a year now, we have been trying to solve a mystery - something is destroying every tree that we plant. Our backyard faces the finger of a lake and undeveloped land on the other side. Of course, that means a couple of things for us...we have a beaver and we have deer. Now, the question is which one of these animals is the culprit.

So far, we have had five corkscrew willows, a bottle brush bush, and recently three large - I mean like five-foot high - knockout rose bushes eaten to ground. The bottle brush bush and the rose bushes are new to the animals menu; however, the willow trees have cut off at the bottom and chewed down countless numbers of times over the past year. As soon as they reach two to three feet high, they are gone. Let me tell you something - IT’S FRUSTRATING!!!

Yesterday, I went to the side of the yard where the rose bushes have been destroyed and much to my amazement there was a shoot with a rose bud coming out of the base of one of the bushes that had been chewed down to the ground. When I saw that beautiful rose among all of that destruction it reminded me of how, we too, can be transformed into something beautiful in the midst of a crisis in our lives.

So let me ask you a few questions...

What’s eating at you?
How frustrated are you with the process?
Who could help you work through your situation?

For us, the mystery still isn’t solved. We aren’t sure if it is a beaver or deer that’s eating up our bushes and trees; but, we know this - we have to do something to resolve the problem.

The same is true for you if you are in the midst of a situation that is bringing you much frustration or destruction in your life. What steps could you take today to begin the process of seeing a change? And, how determined are you to come out of this situation a transformed individual?

Feel free to comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

A transformed life

2012-05-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Nelson Roth
The dolphins or porpoises carved out of the storm-destroyed tree in this video were always inside of that tree. It took the destruction of the tree, and then an artist with a chainsaw to cut away and reveal what was always there.

http://youtu.be/n3PIeu9w0dw

(click this link if the video does not play in your browser or email)

It's the same for each of us as we keep growing as disciples - something beautiful happens as we let God change and transform us.

Biblical transformation is the process of death and rebirth where our weakness becomes strength for His glory.

Transformation means life change of the believer by the intentional choice to no longer “conform to the pattern of this world.” (Romans 12:2)

The outcome of being transformed is a life that reflects the likeness of Christ. “Being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory.” (II Corinthians 3:18)

How are you being challenged to be transformed today?

What barriers stand in your way?

Who can help you?

What will you do next?

Feel free to comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Celebration and the graciousness of uncertainty

2012-05-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Nelson Roth
My daughter-in-law, Tina, sent the following note to me on Sunday, April 29th. It had great meaning as Relevant Ministry was in the final days of the camp fundraising drive. It also had great meaning related to our current blog topic - celebration. Her note was from an Oswald Chambers devotional and I pass it on to you along with her personal words with her permission.

John 3:2 "It doth not yet appear what we shall be."

"Certainty is the mark of the common-sense life: gracious uncertainty is the mark of the spiritual life. To be certain of God means that we are uncertain in all our ways, we do not know what a day may bring forth. This is generally said with a sigh of sadness, it should rather be an expression of breathless expectation." Oswald Chambers (April 29th: The Graciousness of Uncertainty)

Tina said, “May these final days be days of ‘breathless expectation.’ We are praying.”

I'm so encouraged with the responses for the camp purchase! It’s May, and we have crossed the finish line of the two month fund drive. 118 individuals and churches have responded, during March and April, giving a total of $67,335 for the camp fund drive. Our next two steps, (1) we will talk with the owners and (2) keep in touch with you.

We look to the future - with ‘breathless expectation' realizing that there is so much to celebrate and to be grateful for. For future campsite purchase updates keep checking this webpage - RelevantMinistry.org/Campsite

Feel free to comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Celebration comes out of perseverance

2012-04-25T10:38:00.000-05:00

by Pam Roth
I Corinthians 13:4 - 7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil; but rejoices with the truth. It always protects always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”

All of us at one time or another have heard this passage of scripture read at a wedding or preached in a sermon series on marriage. They are beautiful and uplifting verses; but it doesn’t always happen in a marriage or other personal relationships. In the marriages I’ve observed, there seems to be ups and downs...good days and not so good days...pride to overcome or forgiveness to be given. It’s kind of like trying to live by the Ten Commandments.

When I think of these verses, I have to stop and think of a marriage that I have watched for sixty-five years - the marriage of my parents. Has love always been patient, kind, not self seeking or rude? Well, the answer to that question is a resounding, “no;” but has it persevered - the answer is “yes.”

In June, my parents will celebrate sixty-five years of “hanging in there together.” It will be a time to share with family and friends. It will be a day to remember. A day to celebrate!

A couple of weeks ago, I shared the thought that celebration comes out of sacrifice and today, out of perseverance. These are two qualities that most of us will experience throughout our lifetime. Both - sacrifice and perseverance - do not come without challenges that cause us to grow in our emotional and spiritual lives.

Be encouraged, keep moving forward and keep growing. So here’s some questions for you to consider this week:

How are you doing with the verses shared in this article?

How do you keep your pride and anger in check?

What keeps you going?

Who do you count on to help you persevere?

What are you looking forward to celebrating in the near future?

Feel free to comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

All things through Christ

2012-04-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Nelson Roth
The topic this month that Pam and I are writing about is - celebration. It's the ninth of the ten responses of Nehemiah.

After finishing the rebuilding of the Jerusalem wall, they took time to celebrate. It took a lot of effort and work to get to the finish line, and they didn't stop there - they celebrated! I can only imagine that thoughts of the upcoming celebration helped the workers keep their eyes on the day that their goal would be reached.

In many ways, this is where we are right now at Relevant Ministry. RM has a goal of purchasing the camp in Pass Christian, MS. We've come a long way, and there is a ways to go to reach the goal. It almost seems impossible, but then "with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

So, we press on with our eyes on the goal believing - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens." Philippians 4:13

Will you join us in prayer through the end of April? Please join our Facebook 14 Days of Prayer Group. - http://facebook.com/events/348519548539338/

And, will you do financially what you can to help RM purchase the camp by May 1, 2012? [click to give online, or to get the mailing address] - http://RelevantMinistry.org/Campsite

Together, we can cross the finish line and together we can give God the glory for what He has done.

An important response right now is belief and faith. Philippians 4:13 says - “I can do;” and with that I am reminded of the Roger Bannister story. He's the first runner to ever break the four-minute mile. It was an accomplishment believed to be impossible, but Roger ran the mile in 3:59.4 on May 6, 1954. Even more exciting is what followed. Over the next three years, the four-minute mile was broken seventeen times by eleven different runners. Why? They believed that it could be done. Along with the four minute mile, Roger Bannister also broke a psychological barrier and made it believable to others.

Well, as we write about celebration in April, let's keep our eyes on the goal and keep moving forward. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and investment into Relevant Ministry.

Please click now to join our prayer group - http://facebook.com/events/348519548539338/

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Celebration comes out of sacrifice

2012-04-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Pam Roth
When you hear the word “celebration” what picture comes to your mind? Whether it be a wedding, birthday, graduation, an anniversary, Christmas or Easter - all of these events call for a time of celebration; and no event comes without some kind of personal sacrifice.

In many of the events mentioned the investment of time and money are vital; and in all of the events - dedication, perseverance, and a sense of commitment play a major role. Likewise, a whole gamut of emotions are usually experienced and expressed during a time of celebration. So, let me pose a question…“What is more significant, the process leading up to an event or the celebration itself?” In other words, “What brings us the greatest sense of satisfaction and pure joy?”

Ideally, we would all like to experience a time of “celebration” without sacrifice; however, Larry Crabb in his book Shattered Dreams states, “Happiness must be stripped away, forcibly, before joy can surface, before we will value and pursue dreams whose fulfillment produces true joy.”

And in James 1:2-4, we read, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers (and sisters), whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

As I write these words, I think about how many of the members of our family have over the past few years gone through the process of “stripping away happiness” as mentioned in Shattered Dreams. Some have made a major move across the country and others across town; and with that move came the sacrifice of leaving behind homes filled with memories, friendships, connections and positions that no longer exist. For some, there have been times of celebration and for others, they are waiting on “the fulfillment of their dream when they can celebrate with true joy.”

So, let me ask you a couple of questions:

What are you sacrificing today in order to celebrate later?
Who or what are you investing in, today?
What’s the dream you are pursuing?
Who’s your inspiration?

We would love to hear your comments.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

All work and no play

2012-04-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Nelson Roth
Pam and I have been writing for eight months now about the first eight of the ten responses of Nehemiah. Celebration, our topic this month, is response nine. These responses make up a biblical transition process that will move you to a preferred future. These responses make up the Nehemiah Response Model™, a coaching tool that will help you or your organization get from where you are to where you want to go – and celebration is one response we often neglect.

http://youtu.be/murT6MRAlb8
(click this link if the video does not play in your browser or email)

As you move forward – don’t forget to celebrate your successes! Here’s three reasons why:

Celebration is a good thing. God endorses it! He’s for it! Romans 14:17, “The kingdom of God is righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy spirit.” Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

So, what happens for you when it comes time to celebrate?
When one project is finished, do you usually jump right into the next project?
How do you feel about being recognized for a job well done?
Do you feel guilty about having fun or taking a deserved break?

Celebration is rejuvenating. It will give you the energy you will need when it’s time to start the next project. Nehemiah 8:10, “For the joy of the Lord is your strength”.

Celebration is about remembering. It’s being grateful, acknowledging God’s part in your success, and experiencing the presence of the Lord. Psalms 16:11, “You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

What do you have to celebrate? What will you do? And, when will you do it?

Feel free to comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Get your eyes on the prize

2012-03-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Pam Roth
What keeps us from finishing what we start? Some may say, “It’s just the way I am...it’s part of my personality...I’ve always been like that.” Or maybe you don’t feel like you have the support you need to accomplish your dreams or goals, so you become discouraged and quit.

Whether it be yourself or others that keep you from completing a goal, how could you overcome the cycle of not finishing and instead, press on?

Often as an analogy, those trying to inspire us “to finish” will use examples of athletes finishing a race; but, today, I want to use an illustration from nature that was provided for me in my own backyard.

We have a bald spruce in our yard and the cardinals love it. Often, we see the cardinals flying in and out of that big beautiful tree - hiding and building nests. A few years ago, we decided to hang a bird feeder near that tree, so that the birds in our yard could have a bed and breakfast of sorts.

We had a finch feeder and some seed in our garage, so we hung it up. Unfortunately, that only frustrated the cardinals because they could not get the seeds from the smaller holes in the finch feeder; so, instead, they would fly directly to the ground to eat the leftovers provided by the other birds.

After a few days, we decided to hang a bird feeder specifically for cardinals. Well, do you know what those silly birds did? You guessed it - they kept going for the leftovers. But why?

If only you could have seen me standing in front of my kitchen window encouraging those cardinals to “get their eyes on the prize.” I would literally say out loud, “Come on...look up. Get focused....you just flew past the bird feeder. It’s yours, go for it!”

Perhaps some of us are like those cardinals - we don’t believe that there is another option, so we quit or settle for something less. Or maybe we convince ourselves that we don’t deserve anything better.

So, what is it or who is it that is keeping you from finishing?

Philippians 3:12-14 encourages us to finish, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

How could you apply the lesson of the cardinals to your life?
What do you need to do differently to “get your eyes on the prize?”
And, who is it that could come alongside you and encourage you by providing the support that you need?

Feel free to comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Staying on task and finishing

2012-03-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Nelson Roth
To finish is challenging. It takes confidence and the will to never give up. We get distracted, side-tracked, afraid, or consumed by counter-productive activities. Is finishing a challenge for you? What causes you to get off task? What does it take to have the confidence to never give up?

Paul was a finisher. In II Timothy 4:7, just before his death he said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Paul’s secret to finishing may be discovered in another passage that he wrote. Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Paul was a finisher because God is a finisher! And, that is what Paul put his confidence in.

This is a promise you can count on. The Message paraphrases Philippians 1:6 like this - “There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears.”

In the movie, Soul Surfer, Bethany Hamilton’s story inspires confidence to be a finisher. At thirteen, Bethany was attacked by a 14-foot tiger shark while surfing - losing her left arm. Within six months, she was surfing again competitively - and winning, with one arm! In 2004, she was named ESPN's Comeback Athlete of the Year.

What do you have to finish and what can be your next step in the right direction?
What goals have you set; but, have never finished?

I’d be interested in hearing from you about how you’ve learned to stay on task and finish.

Feel free to leave a comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Overcoming fear so you can finish

2012-03-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

by Pam Roth
A couple of weeks ago, I was reminded of something that happened while I was in London with my youngest daughter. I was a rookie to the Underground rail system; but my daughter had traveled to other cities where she had used subways and train systems to get around, so she was the one in charge of navigating us through the web of the Underground when we were out sightseeing.

One day, we were out on an adventure…standing in the Underground, waiting on a train to come. It was extremely crowded on the platform that day, so my daughter said, “We are going to need to move quickly, if we are going to get on this train.” Everyone could see the lights of the train coming down the track, so they began pushing toward the edge of the platform. The train stopped, the doors opened, and the automated message came on, “mind the gap.” The crowd began to pour out as those of use waiting on the platform began to work our way toward the doors of the train. My daughter had finished the task of making it on to the train with the rush of people. I was the next person to get on the train, when all of sudden, this man came out of nowhere – jumped in front of me and caused me to be pushed back into the crowd. Within that moment of hesitation, everything changed. When I looked up across the gap between the platform and the train, I saw the doors of the train closing. There I was, standing on the platform; while my daughter was on the train.

As the doors began to close, my daughter realized that I was not on the train with her; but it was too late. There was no way for her to work her way through the crowd and out the doors before they would close, and I had missed my opportunity to get on the train. Pressing into the large glass window panes of the train car, my daughter could see the distress on my face. When I saw her, I cried out, ANDREA, as I stood frozen on that platform.

The train slowly began to move down the track, and as I followed it on the platform, I could see my daughter trying to communicate to me. Of course, I couldn’t hear her, but I finally figured out what she was saying, “Get on the next train.” “I’ll wait for you at the next stop.”

Such a simple solution…why couldn’t I have figured that out? The truth is I was overtaken by fear. Fear that I was going to separated from my daughter and I didn’t know how we would reconnect. Fear that I was now alone in a country far from home. And, fear – that without her – I could not navigate my way through the Underground system. Fear of the unknown was powerful that day and it paralyzed me.

Today, we laugh when we tell this story but the day it happened, it wasn’t so funny. My daughter loves to tell people that she can still see the look of fear that I had on my face. She describes it, “As a mother who just watched her daughter be loaded up on a train to go to a refugee camp - separated forever.” And, you know what? She’s not too far off with that description. That pretty much sums up how I felt that day – separated from someone I love, alone and scared.
So, let me ask you a few questions… “What are some of the ways that you are ‘minding the gap’ between the way things seem to be and reality?” “Who or what is causing you to hesitate in taking the next step?” “How much are you struggling with the fear of the unknown?”

Here are some practical ways to overcome fear so you too can finish what’s at hand:

Be mindful of your surroundings – through prayer and observation
Stand on a firm foundation – by getting in step with God
Get the facts – don’t operate merely on the way things seem to be
Don’t hesitate to move out when you know it is the right thing to do – even if someone tries to cut you off on your path
Keep fear in check – it can paralyze you

Feel free to leave a comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

One thing I do

2012-03-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

by Nelson Roth
What does it take to finish what we start? The lure of something else that looked better when he was almost finished was one of the major distractions that Nehemiah faced in chapter six.

http://youtu.be/8ppyCZyUVtY

(click this link if the video does not play in your browser or email)

What should Nehemiah do with this new offer? What would you do? Nehemiah was able to realize that this offer was a distraction and then say ‘no' by remembering what he had already said 'yes' to. From this, we learn that the best way to not be distracted is by being attracted to our 'yes'.

A.W. Tozer once wrote, "A great economizing of time and effort can be effected by learning what we should do and then sticking to it, quietly refusing to be turned aside from our task. Paul said, 'But one thing I do,' and by paring his activities down to an important minimum he multiplied his efficiency many times over."

The task of finishing is a challenge. We can easily get side-tracked, off-focus and consumed by counter-productive activities. What is your one thing right now?

How consistent are you when it comes to finishing?
What goals have you set, that are not finished?

Feel free to leave a comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Servant leaders develop character in troubled times

2012-02-29T06:00:00.000-06:00

by Pam Roth
Romans 5:1 – 5, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit.”

Have you found yourself saying, “I can’t wait until November gets here?” Are you tired of the political rhetoric - statements filled with exaggerations, and the confusing campaign ads? Do you find yourself muting political ads on the television?

Please, don’t misunderstand me, I love being an American and all of the liberties that come with it, but sometimes I feel like saying, “Enough is enough! Let’s stop playing all of these games…shoot straight, tell the truth, and get down to the business of leading and healing this great country of ours.”

And then, I am gently reminded that I do not need to be fixated on these uncertain political times or any troubled time that may come my way; but, I need to be focused on what the Lord wants to teach me. Difficult times are a time to grow and build character in our lives. Often, I will ask myself: “What part do I have in this process?” “What steps do I need to make to trust God more and not put my trust in a person or a system?” “What do I truly value?” “Where is all of this going and will it matter five, ten years from now?”

My friend, we are encouraged not to lose heart during these troubled times but to realize that these “momentary” problems are developing character in us. And at the heart of that process is the word – “humility.” Paul wrote in the book of Philippians, “I count everything as loss compared to the possession of the priceless privilege of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord and of progressively becoming more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him.” What a great example of humility and a right perspective about our number one priority – being in relationship with Christ and developing his character.

In his book, Intimacy with the Almighty, Chuck Swindoll shares four areas of our lives that need to be surrendered in order to be in a right relationship with Christ.

Possessions – what would happen if you lost everything you owned?
Positions – how important is your position in life to you?
Plans – what happens to you when things don’t go the way you had expected?
People – children and relationships with others is a gift, what are you doing to cherish those relationships?

So, don’t get too caught up in the ‘hype’ or the ‘doom and gloom’ as you read the newspaper, watch national television, or catch up on the news regarding Wall Street and the campaign trail. Instead, remind yourself of these truths. There is hope…God loves you…He has a plan for your life…He wants to be in relationship with you…He’s patient…He cares about your concerns…He is there to listen…and He has the answer.

Feel free to leave a comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Servant leaders are others oriented

2012-02-21T06:30:00.000-06:00

by Nelson Roth
Whether it’s ‘me first’ or ‘we first’ seems to be a recurring issue in all stages of life.

This me/we issue also seems to creep in to how leadership is carried out and it also brings some of the challenges servant leaders face with those they lead.

How do you nurture collaboration and working together as a leader? Jesus taught us that genuine servant leadership really goes against the grain.

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:42-45

Kingdom leadership is upside down, it’s about serving and being others oriented. Serving is one of the ten responses of The Nehemiah Response Model™.

In Romans 12:3 Paul says, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.” And then he proceeds with a section on Spiritual gifts, team building, and getting along with others for the remainder of the chapter.

So what do servant leaders do to nurture collaboration and working together?

Nehemiah was an example servant leader who was faced with me/we issues with the people he was leading in the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem. Nehemiah chapter five tells the story of internal struggles and interpersonal issues that the workers began to have. How did he respond?

Nehemiah focused on WHAT’S right, not WHO’S right

We often start quarreling over who’s right; instead, shift your thinking to what’s right. Seeking truth about an issue is essential. If two people in conflict can seek truth, and if each can take responsibility for their own faults the issue is more readily cleared up. For this to happen, they may need help from someone else. This is what Nehemiah does in chapter five, verse seven.

Nehemiah’s goal was reconciliation

Reconciliation is the parties involved coming together, dealing with truth, each taking responsibility, making confession, and seeking forgiveness. As a result, each become changed. Nehemiah 5:10-12, tells us that the people doing wrong stopped their wrong actions and took the next step to make their wrongs right.

The outcome was resiliency and recovery

Bouncing back is possible with the two previous responses. In Nehemiah 5:12-13, we read that they were serious about their decision to change and get back to doing what was right.

It’s hard work to shift from me to we. Ministry and best intentions to serve can cause conflicts even in the best of relationships. Often, the conflicts we have reveal shortcomings in our lives that when addressed and changed make us a better person and servant leader.

What challenges do you face as a servant leader and being others oriented?
How do you nurture collaboration and working together?

Feel free to leave a comment.

Click for Relevant Ministry Coaching and The Nehemiah Response Model™

Relevant Ministry Inc.
Training future leaders - Building healthy ministries - Serving on the Gulf Coast

Servant leaders are change agents

2012-02-15T06:30:00.000-06:00

by Pam Roth
Matthew 18: 3 – 5, “And he said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.”

A lot of people I meet today are looking for some kind of change in their lives. It may be an economical change, a governmental change, a change in a relationship, a change in a work position, or a simple change in an attitude. So, my question is what can we do to become a change agent right where we are?

What’s the last success story you have heard about someone taking a near impossible situation and turning it into an unbelievable opportunity? So, are there ways for you to become a change agent, someone who addresses the issues of poverty, class subordination, racial isolation, discrimination, and the harmful consequences of being disadvantaged? When is the last time you did something because it was the right thing to do…not because it was the popular thing to do? Are you kind and considerate to those that are around you? Do you make it a habit to reach out to others that may be less fortunate than you are? I believe if we all do our part to bring about a positive change within our own circle of influence, we could see change right here, right now.

We may not be able to eradicate any of the issues we face today in an instant because the process of change can often be slow, however, we have access to necessary tools to become a change agent. We just need to put the tool belt of servanthood on and synch it up tightly, to use it effectively. We all can be a change agent right where we are, right now.

Here’s a few steps toward being a change agent:

Begin with a heart of gratitude for what you have - Colossians 3:15, I Thessalonians 5:18, Psalm 100:4

Be observant, consider the needs of others – Philippians 2:3

Serve wholeheartedly – Ephesians 6:7

Be kind and compassionate – Ephesians 4:32

Take time to encourage others by building them up – I Thessalonians 5:11

What are some steps that you are taking toward being a change agent?

Feel free to leave a comment.

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Standing strong and being a servant leader

2012-02-08T06:00:00.000-06:00

by Nelson Roth
(from Nehemiah Response, pages 99-100)

Let’s take a glimpse of Nehemiah, the servant leader.

http://youtu.be/jbOPOVGTRXg
(click this link if the video does not play in your browser or email)

Nehemiah said, “But the earlier governors—those preceding me—placed a heavy burden on the people…” (5:15). He never “lorded it over the people” (5:15). “Instead, I devoted myself to the work on this wall,” he says (5:16).

Also in this verse we learn that “we did not acquire any land” (5:16). Nehemiah served with no regard for money.

And then, we see that Nehemiah was willing to serve others. He provided for the needs of over a hundred and fifty workers out of his own pocket. That great number of people “ate at my table… Each day one ox, six choice sheep and some poultry were prepared” (5:17-18). And we find out that Nehemiah, “…never demanded the food allotted to the governor, because the demands were heavy on these people” (5:18).

A servant leader! It’s interesting that the same three marks found in Nehemiah...

not lording over the people

not greedy for money

a willingness to serve others

...are also found in 1 Peter 5:2-3.

Actually, Peter lists them in reverse order. (1) “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; (2) not greedy for money, but eager to serve; (3) not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2-3).

Who are the people in your life that really matter to you?
How can you meet their needs and serve them?
Which of the three qualities of a servant leader are challenges for you?

Feel free to leave a comment.

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Add perseverance

2012-01-31T11:35:00.000-06:00

by Pam Roth
“…make every effort to add to your faith, goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance…” 2 Peter 1:5a-6a (NIV).

This past month, we have been looking at perseverance which is one of the ten responses of The Nehemiah Response Model™. Often when we think of perseverance, our mind goes to stories of overcoming a catastrophic event or a major obstacle. But, what about the mundane situations that require us to persevere?

parents with a colicky newborn
someone with a chronic illness
students longing for graduation
sports teams competing for the prize
civil servants that protect their community
couples going through a difficult time in their marriage
medical personnel who have our health in their best interest

The list above is just a few examples of those that may be persevering on a daily basis; but their efforts go unnoticed. A mother standing watch over her feverish child throughout the night will not make the morning headlines. Nor will many of the people that I have mentioned be heralded as a modern day hero; however, they continue to persevere in their daily lives.

This morning, I saw a perfect example of mundane perseverance. A young, injured bird was on the shoreline of the beach; and the waves from the Gulf were getting closer and closer to the injured bird. But then - yes, but then, there was a woman standing patiently waiting for the authorities to arrive to rescue the bird. When I first noticed the bird, the woman’s husband was standing along side her; but then, he grew impatient and like others passing by, went on about his way down the beach. Vigilantly, she stood on the shore...watching the waves and waiting on animal control.

The fact is, this scenario was only one hour out of this lady’s day; but, she persevered. She remained steadfast; and when the authorities arrived, they allowed her to help with the rescue of the injured bird. I love that!

What are you going through right now that no one else or very few people know about?
When you have persevered, how have your grown?
How would faith, goodness, knowledge and self-control add to your perseverance?

Feel free to leave a comment.

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Run with perseverance the race

2012-01-23T06:30:00.000-06:00

by Nelson Roth
A year ago today my dad passed away – from this life to his eternal home in heaven. The picture shown here, from fifty years ago, stirs a lot of memories of summer fishing vacations when my dad gave mom a break from the daily family cooking.

Dad was a farmer and an example for me of our writing topic for this month – perseverance. Perseverance is one of the ten responses made by Nehemiah. Perseverance, along with the other responses, make up The Nehemiah Response Model™ that when applied helps us when we are in a transition – to get from where we are to where we want to go.

Lessons that I learned from my dad about the rare quality of perseverance line up with what Paul writes to us about in Hebrews chapter 12:1-3, where each of us are encouraged to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

Two areas stand out in my dad’s life that makes him a model for perseverance to me. His steadiness and consistency as a Midwestern corn farmer for fifty years; and in the way he cared for mom when her health began to fail.

What was it that kept my dad going even after one or two years of poor crops due to lack of rain one year and then too much water the next? How was he able to sacrifice everything personally and care for mom over her final years before failing health took her life?

Perseverance takes a long-term perspective. It focuses on the future, rather than the immediate. It goes beyond what is seen. Perseverance fixes its eyes on what is unseen.

My dad taught me perseverance by his patience and faithfulness. In hard times, he kept believing and trusting. He remained faithful, even when there were ample opportunities to give up.

In Galatians 6:9, Paul said, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

What is it that keeps you going in your difficult times? How do you “not grow weary and lose heart” - Hebrews 12:3?

Here are three encouraging teaching points from the passage in Hebrews about how to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us”:

Draw inspiration from those who have gone before you. “We’re surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses.” Who can you look to for inspiration?

Be prepared for struggles along the way. “Throw off everything that hinders.”

Focus your attention in the right place. “Fixing our eyes on Jesus.”

Life is more like a marathon than a wind sprint. How’s it going for you? Are you running with perseverance the race marked out for you?

Feel free to leave a comment below.

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In my dad's memory, there is an album posted on my Facebook page.

Like sea glass, perseverance produces authenticity

2012-01-17T08:30:00.000-06:00

by Pam Roth
James 1:2 – 6, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, but he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”

A couple of years ago, we drove to a nearby community to take in their annual Seafood Festival. We were all excited about our outing…the sun was shining, there was a nice breeze coming off the Gulf, and frankly, we love to eat seafood.

As soon as we entered the ticket gate, we could sense the excitement that a festival creates. Food vendors were encouraging people to stop and try their delectable seafood dishes. People were laughing and relaxing. Families were together playing and shopping at vendor booths. The air was filled with music by jazz and blues musicians and we were taking it all in.

While we were walking through the vendors’ tents, we admired the artwork by some of the local artists. One artist had taken sea glass and created beautiful images framed in old wooden windows. I was drawn in particular to one of the windows. The artist chose a palette of various shades of turquoise blue. The colors were refreshing, calming, and inviting and as we walked away, I had this thought… “Our lives are much like sea glass.”

Some of us seem to be as common as a soda bottle and others are as rare and delicate as a piece of Depression glass or a fine piece of China but all of us have value. Although, we are all unique by our color, size, and shape, most if not all of us have one thing in common…we have been tossed around in the waves of a disturbing sea of trials and buffed by the sands and pressures of life that transform us into something beautiful. Through perseverance, what was is no longer. We are constantly changing and hopefully for the better.

Now here’s the tricky part about buying a piece of artwork made from sea glass… “How can you tell if it is authentic?” Well, the first clue is usually the price. Depending on how rare the color might be, the greater the cost. Did you know that orange sea glass is only found in one out of 10,000 pieces of sea glass. Secondly, what was the process in which the sea glass was polished? Did the glass go through all of the natural elements of rough seas, major storms, and deep, dark, and cold ocean waters or was the glass tumbled in a rock tumbler by some manufacturer of artificial sea glass? Only the master collector can see the scars and depressions etched into the authentic sea glass.

Just like the process that genuine sea glass goes through, there is no short cut to authenticity for us. Only the Master can create a beautiful and genuine image from our lives. We are valuable and He loves us. He, like the sea glass artist, wants to help us find a place that is inviting, calming, and refreshing to our soul.

It would be awesome to hear and learn from your experiences.
Feel free to leave a comment below.

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The halfway mark of your goal can be a critical time

2012-01-11T12:30:00.000-06:00

by Nelson Roth
Opposition to your vision can be challenging and overtake you. Also, all your hard work can cause discouragement to rise up when you realize all that there is yet to do.

What can we learn from Nehemiah? In The Nehemiah Response Model™ the action response is followed by perseverance. To persevere is one of the ten responses of The NRM™.

http://youtu.be/yZfTI7ixY0M

(click this link if the video does not play in your browser or email)

Here is Nehemiah's situation. In chapter four, verse six, Nehemiah is at the halfway mark of reaching the goal. Opposition rises up from people who did not want to see the wall rebuilt. And in verse ten, the people were discouraged - "the strength of the laborers is giving out."

What can you do in a similar critical time to persevere?

Nehemiah's response was to persevere and we see two ways he kept the momentum rolling:

First, he kept the focus on the original vision which was to rebuild the wall. He reminded himself and everyone else what it was that they were called to do.

Second, they persevered with a faith response - "for the people worked with all their heart." Their faith was active. James 2:20, "faith without works is dead."

So, don't be surprised when opposition comes to challenge you in what you've set out to accomplish. Keep your focus on the vision, not the opposition. What are you called to do? Keep the faith and have active faith. To work with your "whole heart" is to understand why you must reach your goal. Nehemiah and the people he was working with were doing more than building a wall; they were restoring God's glory and bringing blessing to their families (Nehemiah 4:14). Why is your vision important and why must it come to pass?

What does ridicule and criticism do to you?
What is your response when opposition or obstacles threaten your advance forward?
Why is God's vision for you important?

It would be awesome to hear and learn from your experiences.
Feel free to leave a comment below.

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Persevere and bring home the gold

2012-01-03T06:30:00.000-06:00

by Pam Roth
When I think about perseverance, I am reminded of the U.S. men’s swim team when they brought home the gold from the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Cullen Jones, Michael Phelps, Jason Lezak, and Garrett Weber-Gale made up the team of swimmers for the men’s 400m freestyle relay. Diverse in ethnicity as well as age, these men had one thing in common - they were not going to give up…they were going to persevere and bring home the gold.

The French were favored to win the meet and had even said that they would “smash the Americans.” But the tide was turned on Alain Bernard and his team from France when Jason Lezak, the oldest man on the American team, literally kicked it in to high gear and won the race by eight-hundredths of a second breaking the world record of 3:12.23.

The United States was trailing France by a little more than half a second at the end of the third leg of the race. Lezak, dove in, swimming against the 100m free style world record-holder, Alain Bernard. The French were in the lead at the final turn and then Lezak and Bernard were swimming neck-and-neck when thirty-two year old Jason Lezak had a sudden burst of energy, launching forward and reaching the wall in a split second before Bernard.

It was an amazing race. Millions of Americans must have been screaming right along with Michael Phelps when they saw the results. I know I was up on my feet cheering the team on and yelling, “Amazing…they won, they won!” There is truly something inspirational about seeing someone come from behind and winning against all odds.

In their song, More Than Fine, the Christian group Switchfoot sings these words:

I want more than just ok, more than just ok.

I’m not giving up, giving up, not giving up now.
I’m not giving up, giving up, not backing down.

More than fine, more than bent on getting by.
More than fine, more than just ok.

Every time I hear those words, I want to break out running like an Olympian and in my mind; I have this image of running up seventy-two stairs to the Philadelphia Museum just like Rocky Balboa did in the original Rocky movie. Some how those words give me the extra push I need to keep on keeping on…to reach my goal.

What motivates you? The team you’re on? Someone challenging you? A song? The desire to reach a goal? Or maybe you are like Jason Lezak, the oldest member of the swim team, you want to prove it to yourself that you can reach the goal and win. Well, what ever it is, persevere like the U.S. men’s swim team and bring home the gold.

Feel free to leave a comment below.

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Perfection paralysis and taking action

2011-12-28T06:30:00.000-06:00

by Nelson Roth
When I was in grade school, I stuttered. There were certain words that got locked in my head and were hard to get out. Stuttering was a real problem for me and was often humiliating. When I was eight years old, having a conversation was a fearful, anxiety-filled experience. I would think and re-think about how to say something so that my words would come out right; and often, I would avoid saying anything at all.

To speak clearly, I had to get over the fear of making mistakes and being made fun of. I actually improved my speech by making mistakes, quickly recovering, and continuing the conversation; and eventually, I overcame my stuttering. I came to see that being concerned about what others were thinking kept me from doing what I needed to do.

Because I stuttered, there was a time when I convinced myself that it was best not to speak unless I could correctly pronounce all the syllables of those words. I became afraid of making a mistake and set a standard for myself of perfectionism.

Carried over into life now, I can challenge myself when it's time for action. I ask myself, "Am I going to let my fear of a mistake keep me from taking action?" I've got to be honest and ask, "Am I going to let a desire for everything to be perfect paralyze me?"

My childhood experience of stuttering makes me think of the potentially paralyzing behavior of inaction when it's time to implement an initiative. Now, when you are not sure about 'when' or 'what' action steps to implement; staying put until you are certain is the best decision.

However, when you have clarity about where you are going; and, if a good plan is in place to get there...it's time for action!

How about you? Is there something for you to be taking action on? Is the fear of making a mistake holding you back? Is perfection keeping you from achieving your goal? Is trying to figure out all the details or making sure everything is perfectly in place keeping you from action?

What could you do now?
What do you want to do now?
What will you do now?

Feel free to leave a comment below.

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A “Mary Heart”

2011-12-20T15:20:00.002-06:00

by Pam Roth
Can you believe it? We’re just five days away from Christmas Day! So, you know what that means? You have limited time to complete all of your shopping, wrapping, decorating, baking and cooking. That statement either stresses you out or brings a sense of relief. If you’re feeling relief, then I hope that’s a good thing and not just a feeling of, “Whew, this is almost over.”

Hopefully, you’re relieved because you have a plan, and you’re working that plan. Hopefully, you’re not allowing the world’s view of Christmas to drive your decisions. Hopefully, you’re focused on what Christmas really means, and you’re accomplishing all that needs to be done to enjoy your time with family and friends. Plus, let’s hope you’re not stressing over what you cannot do this year physically or financially; but that you’re resting in what you are able to do.

The other night, we had guests at our home, and the account of Christ’s birth was read aloud. As I listened, I began thinking about the scene at the birth of Christ. What was the weather like the night Jesus was born? Was it mild and humid, or was it cold and damp? What did the stable look like? What were Joseph and Mary thoughts as they watched their newborn son lying in a manger?

And then, my mind went to one of my favorite verses in the Christmas story, Luke 2:19: “But Mary treasured up all of these things and pondered them in her heart.” I cherish that verse. Whenever I read it, it reminds me of all the things I love. It brings back memories of the first time I saw each of our children and grandchildren - that overwhelming feeling that you’re looking at a miracle.

Christmas truly is a reminder of God’s miracles: the miracle of birth (specifically God’s son) and the miracle of life (eternal life with the Lord). It’s no wonder Mary felt such an awesome responsibility to be the mother of Jesus. She had delivered our Savior and was looking into the face of God.

So, what do you treasure this time of year? Is it spending time with family and friends? Do you like listening to Christmas music, going to church services or the Messiah? Is sitting by a fire with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book something you enjoy? Do you treasure the smells of Christmas: fresh evergreens, cookies baking, and a ham or turkey in the oven?

What are you pondering? Are you like Mary? You have so much to be rejoicing over; yet there are so many responsibilities to think about. Are you concerned about your future? Are you pondering the loss of a loved one or perhaps a broken relationship?

Like Mary, Christmas brings with it a time for us to reflect on all that we have – the things we treasure; it also provides for us a time to ponder the important decisions we need to make. We may only have five days left until Christmas Day; but we have a lifetime to have a “Mary heart.”

How to have a “Mary heart”

Treasure your relationship with the Lord

Treasure your family

Treasure time with those you love

Ponder the path you are on

Ponder your purpose

Ponder your future

Feel free to leave a comment below.

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What is your strategy for taking action?

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

by Nelson Roth
For the last year or so, I have been running three or four miles on a regular basis to stay healthy and to keep in shape. Each time I head out, I set my iPod for music to motivate me. With a Nike+ chip in my shoe, my iPod also works like a coach giving me times and distances with the push of a button. I haven’t run like I am now since high school and something I’ve really become aware of is the importance of having a strategy. Webster tells us that the word strategy has a military origin and it “refers to the action designed to achieve a particular goal.”

In my running, for example, I’m realizing that the challenge is as much mental as it is physical. So, I’ve begun to implement a mental strategy. I’ve learned that the first half mile is when I need to have a mental strategy the most – telling myself, “I can do this and I will be glad I pushed through forty minutes from now.”

What action steps are on your agenda for today? Do you have a strategy to insure that you will finish?

In these blog articles, my wife and I have been sharing a tool that we use in our coaching called The Nehemiah Response Model™. It is a biblical transition process for revitalization and moving forward. The model captures the ten responses of Nehemiah and will help you, your church, or your organization to get from where you are to where you want to go. Action is the fifth response and actions brings us to the Implementation Stage of the NRM.

If you were following along with the book of Nehemiah, we would be looking at chapter three. The response processes of the Incubation Stage have already taken place and the plan has come together. Nehemiah and the workers are finally ready to implement the plan; they take action. Like the runner in a race, we learn that Nehemiah had a strategy for all of the action and work to be going on for the rebuilding of the wall in Jerusalem.

Nehemiah puts the plan into action using three strategies.

Teamwork. The people worked together in specific groups. In chapter three, twenty-eight times, we see the phrase, “next to them/him.” There are forty-four groups of people mentioned and they are positioned strategically in a total of forty-two places to do the work and carry out the plan.
Prioritizing. There were a number of gates around the wall that were in need of repair and systematically, each are mentioned in a counter clockwise order beginning and ending at the Sheep Gate. The Sheep Gate speaks not only of what’s first, but who’s first. The Sheep Gate provided access for the sheep pasturing in the northern hills outside of Jerusalem to come into the city. From this gate it was a short distance to the Temple where they were offered as sacrifices. Interestingly, it was through this same gate that Jesus Christ entered during Passion Week which ended with the Cross and His sacrifice.
Inside-Out. They began the work where they were. Reading the chapter reveals that they took action beginning at their own house. There was a lot to do. Instead of being overwhelmed they began where they were and proceeded out from there.

Which of these three action strategies would be a helpful for you today? What challenges stand in the way of such action being possible? What can you do to overcome the obstacles that are blocking you from moving forward?

I'd be interested in action strategies that you have found helpful. Feel free to leave a comment.

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The tenacious fire ant and teamwork

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

by Pam Roth
If you live in the South, you are familiar with fire ants. If you don’t, you may know very little about these small creatures that do a lot of damage to a yard and bring a “world of hurt” to the unsuspecting person who steps on their ant mound.

It’s interesting that this insect is called an ant since the fire ant is actually from the same family as a wasp. Getting the picture, now? Here’s an interesting fact about fire ants…one female fire ant can produce 2,000 eggs in one day. Now, that’s a lot of ants. So as you can imagine, a fire ant mound could be quite large with a half million ants living in one colony.

Another important thing to know about fire ants…they are ferocious. Let’s say someone is walking along and without noticing their ant mound ends up standing on it for even a few seconds. Once the nest is messed with, it stirs up the ants and they begin crawling on the person’s foot and up their leg. As soon as the person realizes that something is on them and they begin to move or should I say, “jump, run, and scream,” the fire ants send out a signal to “attack.” And attack they do. They will sting repeatedly until the person has gotten the last ant off of their body. Do you feel ants crawling on you? Eek!

Well, this is exactly what happened to my husband when he was out working in the yard one day. Little did he know that he was standing on a red fire ant mound until it was too late. The next thing I know, the back door swings open and he’s calling out, “Honey, do you have any meat tenderizer?” Crossing the room to the door, I said, “What? Meat tenderizer? Why do you need meat tenderizer?” And then he told me, “I’ve been stung by red fire ants and I just heard someone say the other day, ‘If you ever get stung by fire ants, use meat tenderizer to put out the sting,’ so do you have any in the pantry?”

If we were all more like fire ants – not vicious of course, what action steps would we need to take to accomplish our plan? Can you imagine how much teamwork goes into that single, malicious attack from fire ants?

What would happen if you, like one of those fire ants, understood the purpose of a goal you and your team were attacking; and you took action to move in the same direction as the rest of your team – at work, church, or in your family?
What might be some benefits to working as a team?
How much could you and your team accomplish, if everyone stayed with the plan until the mission was finished?

Let me encourage you to take action and be as tenacious as a fire ant and hang on until you have accomplished your goal. It’s easy to become weary as you work hard to move forward…but don’t give up. Get focused, find someone to encourage you along the way, and “hang out” with other people who are positive and moving in the same direction. Go ahead...get fired up and take ACTION!

Feel free to leave a comment below.

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