relationship

The Need to Eliminate Hurry from Our Lives

/ Kris / Leave a comment

In today’s fast-paced world, hurry has become the default setting for many of us. Whether it’s juggling work deadlines, managing family schedules, or striving to meet personal goals, we often find ourselves rushing through life. This hurried lifestyle, though seemingly productive, comes at a significant cost—one that impacts not only our physical and mental well-being but also our spiritual health.

The Physical Toll of Hurry

Our bodies were not designed to be in a constant state of rush. The continuous pressure to keep moving, working, and achieving can lead to chronic stress, which is detrimental to our health. Studies have shown that chronic stress contributes to a range of health problems, including high blood pressure, weakened immune systems, digestive issues, and even heart disease.

When we’re always in a hurry, our bodies don’t have time to rest, recharge, or heal. Simple things like eating meals too quickly or sacrificing sleep to finish one more task erode our physical health over time. Eventually, the body begins to break down, forcing us to stop—but by then, the damage has been done. Learning to eliminate hurry can help us reclaim the rest and nourishment our bodies desperately need.

The Mental and Emotional Impact

Hurry doesn’t just affect us physically; it also wreaks havoc on our mental and emotional health. When we live in a state of perpetual rush, we rarely have time to process our emotions or engage in deep thinking. This can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, and burnout. It’s as if our minds are always on overdrive, never able to slow down enough to fully engage in the moment.

When we’re constantly hurrying, we miss out on meaningful relationships. We rush through conversations, fail to listen deeply, and overlook opportunities for genuine connection. Over time, this can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, even when surrounded by people. The antidote to this is slowing down, allowing space for reflection, and giving ourselves permission to simply “be” rather than always “do”.

Hurry and Our Relationship with God

Perhaps the most significant impact of hurry is how it hinders our time with God. Spiritual growth requires time—time to pray, to meditate on God’s Word, to be still and listen for His voice. When we’re always in a rush, we push aside these essential practices, squeezing God into the margins of our busy lives rather than giving Him the priority He deserves.

Hurry robs us of the joy of abiding in Christ. Jesus Himself modeled a life of unhurried connection with the Father. In Mark 1:35, we see Him withdrawing to a quiet place to pray, despite the demands of His ministry. If Jesus needed time alone with God, how much more do we? Yet, when we live in a constant state of hurry, we sacrifice the richness of a deep and intimate relationship with Him.

How to Eliminate Hurry

Eliminating hurry requires intentionality. It’s not about abandoning responsibilities but learning to prioritize what truly matters. Here are a few practical steps to begin:

1. Practice Sabbath Rest: Set aside a day each week to rest, worship, and enjoy God’s creation. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a commandment (Exodus 20:8-11). Sabbath reminds us that we are not defined by our productivity but by our identity in Christ.

2. Create Space for Solitude and Prayer: Follow Jesus’ example by regularly stepping away from the noise and busyness to spend time with God. Start with small, consistent moments of prayer and meditation, gradually expanding that time as you learn to value stillness.

3. Prioritize People Over Productivity: Relationships matter. Make time for meaningful conversations, and listen well. This not only deepens your connection with others but also reflects the love of Christ.

4. Simplify Your Schedule: We often overcommit because we feel like we must do it all. Learn to say no to things that aren’t essential, freeing up time for rest, reflection, and spiritual growth.

Hurry may seem like an inevitable part of modern life, but it doesn’t have to control us. By recognizing its harmful effects on our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, we can take intentional steps to slow down. When we eliminate hurry, we make room for rest, for connection with others, and, most importantly, for deepening our relationship with God. In doing so, we align our lives more closely with the rhythm of grace that God intended for us, allowing us to flourish in every aspect of life.

Unveiling the Husband Code: Guiding Principles for Building a Strong Partnership

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Marriage is a journey filled with love, growth, and shared experiences. To cultivate a thriving partnership, it’s essential for husbands to understand and embrace their roles and responsibilities. The “Husband Code” represents a set of guiding principles that can help husbands foster love, respect, and support in their relationships. In today’s post, we will explore the elements of the Husband Code and delve into practical strategies for husbands to strengthen their marriages and become the best partners they can be.

  1. Embracing Open Communication:

Effective communication forms the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling relationship. To honor the Husband Code, husbands should:

  • Practice active listening: Give your full attention, maintain eye contact, and show empathy when your partner is speaking.
  • Express your feelings and thoughts: Share openly and honestly, creating a safe space for open dialogue.
  • Seek understanding: Ask questions and clarify assumptions to ensure both partners are on the same page.
  1. Demonstrating Respect and Equality:

Mutual respect and equality are vital for a successful marriage. Husbands can honor the Husband Code by:

  • Valuing opinions and perspectives: Recognize that your partner’s thoughts and ideas are valuable and deserving of respect.
  • Sharing household responsibilities: Contribute to household tasks, making sure the workload is shared equitably.
  • Respecting boundaries and personal space: Allow your partner the freedom to pursue their individual interests and maintain independence.
  1. Supporting Emotional Connection:

Nurturing emotional intimacy strengthens the bond between husband and wife. To uphold the Husband Code, husbands should:

  • Practice empathy: Seek to understand your partner’s emotions and provide support during challenging times.
  • Show appreciation and gratitude: Express your love and gratitude for your partner’s presence and efforts.
  • Create quality time together: Prioritize shared activities and moments of connection to deepen your emotional bond.
  1. Prioritizing Growth and Personal Development:

Personal growth contributes to the strength of the marital partnership. Husbands can embrace the Husband Code by:

  • Encouraging personal goals: Support your partner’s aspirations and provide encouragement as they pursue personal growth.
  • Continuing education and self-improvement: Seek opportunities to enhance your own knowledge and skills, fostering personal development.
  • Committing to self-reflection: Regularly reflect on your actions, strengths, and areas for improvement as a husband and partner.
  1. Nurturing Romance and Intimacy:

Romance and physical intimacy are essential components of a thriving marriage. To uphold the Husband Code, husbands should:

  • Cultivate romance and surprise: Plan thoughtful gestures, date nights, and special occasions to keep the romance alive.
  • Prioritize intimacy and connection: Make time for physical affection, intimacy, and emotional closeness.
  • Express love and admiration: Regularly express your love and appreciation for your partner, affirming their importance in your life.

By embracing the principles of the Husband Code, husbands can cultivate strong, fulfilling partnerships with their wives. Open communication, respect, support, emotional connection, personal growth, and nurturing romance are key elements that contribute to a thriving marriage. Remember, the Husband Code is not a rigid set of rules but rather a guiding framework that allows husbands to continuously grow, learn, and evolve in their roles. By committing to these principles, husbands can create loving, harmonious relationships that stand the test of time.

Because People Matter-

Because Your Marriage and Wife Matter-

-K

The Leader’s Greatest Asset: Developing Those Around Them.

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True leaders are not just concerned with their own success; they understand that their greatest asset lies in developing those around them. While it’s crucial for leaders to possess vision, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills, their ability to nurture and empower their team members is what sets them apart. In today’s post, we will explore why developing others is a leader’s most valuable asset and how it can lead to long-term success for both individuals and organizations.

Creating a Culture of Growth

Effective leaders understand that their success is intertwined with the growth and development of their team members. By fostering a culture of growth, leaders inspire their employees to continuously learn, improve, and reach their full potential. They provide opportunities for professional development, offer guidance, and encourage their team members to take on new challenges. This not only enhances individual skills but also cultivates a collaborative and innovative environment.

Building a Stronger Team

Leaders who prioritize developing others recognize that a high-performing team is built on the strengths and capabilities of each individual. They invest time and effort in identifying the unique talents and potential of their team members and aligning them with the right tasks and responsibilities. By doing so, they create a cohesive team that leverages diverse skills, fosters mutual support, and achieves collective success.

Empowering Others for Success

Great leaders empower their team members by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and autonomy to succeed. They delegate responsibilities, encourage independent thinking, and offer guidance when needed. By empowering others, leaders demonstrate trust and confidence in their abilities, which fosters a sense of ownership and accountability. This approach not only increases productivity but also develops future leaders within the organization.

Creating a Legacy of Leadership

Leaders who prioritize the development of those around them create a lasting impact. By investing in the growth and success of their team members, leaders create a legacy of leadership within their organization. They nurture future leaders, inspire others to follow their example, and establish a culture of continuous learning and development. This legacy ensures the sustainability and long-term success of the organization beyond the leader’s tenure.

Enhancing Employee Engagement and Retention

When leaders invest in developing their team members, they significantly increase employee engagement and retention. Employees feel valued and appreciated when their leaders show genuine interest in their growth and well-being. By providing opportunities for learning and advancement, leaders create a sense of loyalty and commitment among their team members. This ultimately leads to higher job satisfaction, increased productivity, and reduced turnover rates.

While leaders possess various skills and attributes, their greatest asset lies in developing those around them. By creating a culture of growth, building a stronger team, empowering others, creating a legacy of leadership, and enhancing employee engagement and retention, leaders can cultivate an environment of success and achievement. Investing in the growth and development of team members not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the overall success and longevity of the organization. Therefore, let us strive to be leaders who empower and uplift others, creating a positive and transformative impact in both our personal and professional lives.

Because People Matter-

-K

Cracking the Father Code: Unlocking the Secrets of Fatherhood

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Fatherhood is a profound and transformative role that brings immense joy, responsibility, and challenges. As fathers, we often seek guidance and inspiration to navigate this incredible journey. In today’s post, we delve into the “Father Code,” a collection of principles and values that can help unlock the secrets of effective fatherhood. By embracing these principles, we can nurture strong relationships with our children and leave a lasting positive impact on their lives.

Presence: The Power of Being There:

The Father Code emphasizes the importance of being present in our children’s lives. It means actively engaging in their upbringing, spending quality time with them, and being emotionally available. By being present, we create a sense of security and stability that allows our children to thrive and develop a deep bond with us.

Love and Affection: The Language of the Heart:

Expressing love and affection is a fundamental aspect of the Father Code. Our children need to feel our love through words, gestures, and actions. By showering them with genuine affection, we create an environment where they feel valued, cherished, and confident. Love becomes the foundation upon which our relationships are built.

Role Modeling: Leading by Example:

Fathers play a pivotal role in shaping their children’s character and values. The Father Code emphasizes the importance of being positive role models. Our actions speak louder than words, and by demonstrating integrity, empathy, and compassion, we inspire our children to emulate these qualities. We become the guiding light that helps them navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

Listening and Communication: A Bridge of Understanding:

Open and effective communication is a vital element of the Father Code. We must be active listeners, creating a safe space for our children to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. By genuinely hearing them, we foster trust, strengthen our bond, and gain valuable insights into their world. Effective communication enables us to guide, support, and guide them on their journey.

Encouragement and Support: Unleashing Potential:

The Father Code encourages us to be our children’s greatest cheerleaders. We must provide encouragement, support, and guidance as they pursue their passions and dreams. By believing in their abilities and helping them build confidence, we empower them to discover their full potential. Our unwavering support becomes a catalyst for their growth and success.

Discipline and Boundaries: Nurturing Responsibility:

The Father Code recognizes the need for setting boundaries and instilling discipline in our children’s lives. Discipline is not about punishment but about teaching responsibility, accountability, and self-control. By establishing clear expectations and consistent discipline, we provide structure and guidance that helps our children develop resilience, respect, and a strong moral compass.

Cracking the Father Code requires dedication, commitment, and a genuine desire to nurture the next generation. By embracing the principles of presence, love, role modeling, communication, support, and discipline, we can unlock the secrets of effective fatherhood. Let us strive to embody the Father Code and create a lasting legacy of love, guidance, and positive influence in the lives of our children. By doing so, we empower them to become compassionate, resilient, and successful individuals who contribute positively to the world.

Because People Matter-

-K

The Power of Quality Family Time: Strengthening Bonds and Creating Lasting Memories

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In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of everyday life. Between work commitments, social obligations, and the lure of digital distractions, spending quality time with family often takes a backseat. However, carving out dedicated moments for family interactions is crucial for fostering strong relationships, promoting emotional well-being, and creating lasting memories. In today’s post, we will explore the power of quality family time and why it should be a priority in our lives.

  1. Strengthening Family Bonds

Quality family time provides an opportunity to strengthen the bonds between family members. Whether it’s sharing a meal together, engaging in a fun activity, or simply having heartfelt conversations, these moments allow family members to connect on a deeper level. Regularly engaging in activities as a family fosters a sense of togetherness, trust, and support, which forms the foundation for strong relationships. Spending time together also enables family members to understand and appreciate each other’s unique personalities, interests, and perspectives.

  1. Promoting Emotional Well-being

Spending quality time with family has a positive impact on emotional well-being for both children and adults. For children, having consistent and meaningful interactions with parents and siblings contributes to their overall emotional development. It provides them with a sense of security, belonging, and love, which are essential for their self-esteem and confidence.

Similarly, for adults, quality family time offers an opportunity to unwind, de-stress, and recharge. It acts as a reminder of what truly matters in life, allowing them to prioritize their relationships and find solace in the company of loved ones. Sharing laughter, discussing personal challenges, and providing emotional support within the family unit can significantly enhance mental and emotional well-being.

  1. Building Core Values and Traditions

Family time is an ideal setting for imparting core values, beliefs, and traditions from one generation to the next. Through shared experiences, families can transmit their cultural heritage, ethical principles, and important life lessons. Whether it’s through storytelling, engaging in community service together, or participating in family rituals, quality family time creates a fertile ground for instilling strong values and promoting a sense of identity and belonging.

  1. Creating Lasting Memories

Some of the most cherished memories we carry throughout our lives are often formed during family time. Whether it’s embarking on a memorable vacation, celebrating holidays together, or engaging in simple everyday activities, these shared experiences create lasting impressions. These memories not only provide a sense of nostalgia but also serve as a source of comfort, joy, and connection in the years to come. The moments shared during quality family time become a treasure trove of stories and experiences that strengthen the family’s collective history.

In a world that constantly demands our attention and pulls us in different directions, the power of quality family time should not be underestimated. Prioritizing dedicated moments for family interactions has immense benefits, including strengthening family bonds, promoting emotional well-being, transmitting core values, and creating lasting memories. By consciously carving out time for each other, we can foster stronger relationships, nurture a sense of belonging, and build a solid foundation for our families. Let us embrace the power of quality family time and make it a priority in our lives, for it is within these moments that the true essence of family shines through.

How do you protect your family time? What does quality family time look like for your family?

Because People Matter-

-K

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families: Building Stronger Bonds for Lasting Happiness

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In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, building and maintaining a strong and harmonious family unit can be a challenging task. However, highly effective families possess certain habits that enable them to navigate challenges, communicate effectively, and create a nurturing environment for each family member to thrive. Today, we will explore the seven habits of highly effective families, which can help build stronger bonds and foster lasting happiness. These 7 habits are taken from Stephen R. Covey book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families: Creating a Nurturing Family in a Turbulent World

Habit 1: Be Proactive – Become an Agent of Change in Your Family

Highly effective families understand that they have the power to shape their own destinies. They take responsibility for their actions, attitudes, and relationships. By being proactive, they actively seek ways to improve and positively impact their family dynamics. Rather than reacting to circumstances, proactive families choose their responses and become agents of change within their own households.

Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind – Know the Type of Family You Want to Be

Highly effective families have a clear vision of the type of family they aspire to become. They set goals, establish values, and define their family’s purpose. By beginning with the end in mind, they align their actions and decisions with their long-term vision. This habit enables them to make choices that contribute to the growth and well-being of the entire family unit.

Habit 3: Put First Things First – Make Family a Priority in a Turbulent World

In the midst of busy schedules and external demands, highly effective families prioritize what truly matters – their family relationships. They allocate time for shared activities, create meaningful traditions, and foster a sense of togetherness. By putting first things first, these families ensure that their bonds remain strong and resilient, even in the face of a rapidly changing world.

Habit 4: Think “Win-Win” – Move from “Me” to “We”

Highly effective families embrace a mindset of cooperation and collaboration. They seek mutually beneficial solutions that address the needs and desires of all family members. By shifting from a “me” mentality to a “we” mentality, they cultivate an atmosphere of respect, empathy, and compromise. This habit fosters a sense of unity, harmony, and shared responsibility within the family.

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand…Then Be Understood – Solve Family Problems Through Communication

Effective families prioritize open and empathetic communication. They listen attentively to one another’s perspectives, seeking to understand before seeking to be understood. By creating an environment where all family members feel heard and valued, they are better equipped to resolve conflicts, address concerns, and strengthen their relationships.

Habit 6: Synergize – Build Family Unity While Celebrating Differences

Highly effective families recognize and celebrate the unique strengths, talents, and interests of each family member. They encourage cooperation, collaboration, and shared decision-making. By leveraging the diverse qualities of their members, these families create a sense of unity, harmony, and collective growth. They embrace differences as opportunities for learning and personal development.

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw – Renew the Family Spirit Through Traditions

To maintain a strong and vibrant family bond, highly effective families prioritize self-care and renewal. They establish and nurture traditions that promote connection, joy, and shared experiences. By regularly engaging in activities that bring the family together, they create a sense of belonging and rejuvenate the family spirit.

The habits of highly effective families provide a roadmap for building stronger bonds and fostering lasting happiness. By being proactive, envisioning their desired family dynamics, prioritizing meaningful connections, embracing cooperation, practicing empathetic communication, celebrating differences, and renewing the family spirit through traditions, families can create a nurturing

Because People Matter-

-K

Quit Being Lazy

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Men….I am talking to you. I know that 2020 was an unprecedented year, unlike anything we have been through. But that is no excuse. I know because I have fallen in that trap as well. The truth is that our wives need us. They need us now probably more than ever.

Over the next several days, maybe weeks, I want to share about marriage. Last year, I committed to Jessica that we would attend a marriage retreat at least once every quarter. Not because we needed it but because we wanted it. There is something about attending an intimate weekend marriage retreat with your spouse that can not be replicated.

Unfortunately, we were not able to attend any last year due to the pandemic. I am not sure about Jess but I know that I could feel it. I could actually feel the effects of not attending a conference last year. But we are finally able to attend a conference this month. We are excited to attend Romance Uncovered this year and hope to make it one of our yearly conferences to attend.

Leading up to our conference in a couple weeks, I want to share 10 tips to effectively date your spouse. These are tips that I have learned and believe they can greatly improve your married, dating life. I hate to admit it but I struggle with effectively dating my spouse as well. I will share 1 tip a day for the next 10 days.

  1. Do not be lazy. Think. Prepare. Act. Dating your spouse takes planning. It takes thoughtful preparation. Think back to before you were married, How much time and effort did you put into planning each and every date you went on? I would venture to bet that you have not put that much planning into a date night with your spouse since you have been married.

The craving of a sluggard will be the death of him,
    because his hands refuse to work. – Proverbs 21:25

When it comes to working on our marriage relationships so they grow stronger, too many of us treat it with a “whatever…” attitude. But realize:

“Love is a choice. So choose to love your spouse well. Remember that they are not the same person they were when you met them. Nor are you. So while you may think you know a lot about them, there may be new things to discover if you have the courage to go there.” (Mark Merrill)

And it does take courage. It also takes gumption and grit to challenge yourself when you’ve let yourself fall into the trap of marital complacency. Additionally, you will need to get to a place of “mindfulness.” You will need a “made up mind” in order to fight a lazy marriage attitude.

“Dr. John Gottman states that ‘couples often ignore each other’s emotional needs out of mindlessness, not malice.’ So, if you absentmindedly leave laundry on the floor or dirty dishes in the sink, it most likely isn’t with malicious intent. In fact, there probably isn’t any intent on your part, but rather a lack of mindfulness about your partner’s needs to have a clean house, which could lead to a conflict. To minimize or avoid that conflict, practice daily mindfulness about what your partner needs from you.” (The Gottman Institute

So this is a wakeup call to all of us. Are you (are we) ready to mix things up a bit? Look for ways to bless your spouse. Ask him or her if there is anything you can do within the next few days that will bless them.

That will certainly wake up him or her. It could actually introduce excitement. They may be confused for a few moments. But after they shake off the confusion, they could get quite excited. It’s like, “What do you mean? Is this a trick question? Do you mean I didn’t have to nag, or push at you to do this?” THAT’S a blessing in itself, but don’t stop there. Actually do what they ask of you.

And then look for other ways to take your marriage to a new level. Flirt with your spouse. Keep in mind that your marriage CAN be crippled by apathy. It can also die from boredom. Don’t let this happen. Look for ways to stir things up (in pleasant ways). You did this when you were dating each other. Just make a point of looking for ways to do this now that you are married.

There is still time to sign up to join us in Branson at the end of this month for Romance Uncensored. Click on the link here to sign up.

Because Your Spouse Matters

Kris

The Logsdon Five

/ Kris / Leave a comment

Logsdon Five

THE LOGSDON FIVE…..
are a family
are not perfect
do our best
get silly
tell the truth
listen give
are grateful
find joy
take responsibility
have faith
share trust
use kind words
respect each other
laugh every day
celebrate life
give grace
are messy
make mistakes
do loud really well
love each other
say please and thank you
give second chances
are Blessed

Influential Generation

/ Kris / Leave a comment

Books

Just food for thought-

In Thom and Jess Rainers’ book “The Millennials: Connecting to America’s Largest Generation,” They suggest that the Millennial Generation (those born between 1980-2000) has become the most influential generation.  Over 78 millions births occurred between 1980-2000.

What does this mean?  This means that people from the ages of 11 years old to 31 years old have surpassed the Baby Boomers and have become the leading influence in America today.

What are you doing to reach this generation?  Churches can not afford to miss out on the opportunity to reach this generation.  I believe that if we are going to reach the world for Christ, we must start with reaching the Millennial Generation.

 

Share your thoughts!!!

 

Because People Matter-

Kris

Barefoot for Jesus

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Yesterday I had the awesome privilege to worship with Pastor Ken Patterson and Grace International Church in lovely downtown Baltimore. This was the first time meeting Ken and Grace International Church. Ken is very passionate about the Gospel and about his relationship with Jesus. Kens’ passion overflows into his vision for Grace International and his passion to preach a unified Gospel message for all. What makes Grace International a unique church in my opinion is that they desire to be a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural church in the Baltimore area. Kens’ message yesterday was out of Joshua 3. Ken made a profound statement that really struck me and has really got me thinking.

In Joshua 3, we read about the tribes of Israel crossing the Jordan River. The unique thing here is in Joshua 3:13. “And when the “soles” of their feet….shall rest in the waters of the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan shall be cut off from flowing.” The people were able to cross unharmed. Ken encouraged the listeners to find out what “your “Jordan” is” and what is it that God wants you to possess?

Ken shared further that the passion of Grace International (@unthinkchurch) is that everyone will feel welcome and that we can become barefoot for Jesus and worship him together, leaving our differences at the door and worshiping together as one body.

I think that this is the beginning of an awesome movement of worship, where all people of all races, all life backgrounds, all walks of life can come together, united as one and worship our one true living Savior.

Will you join me and @unthinkchurch in becoming “Barefoot for Jesus” this year?

love God. love people

Kris