"Norm!"

Doesn't it feel good to go where everyone knows your name?

Today's Scripture:

Know your sheep by name; carefully attend to your flocks.

Proverbs 27:23

A classic sitcom showed a recurring scene each week in which a man would enter the restaurant and everyone in the place would yell out his name in greeting. The scene exemplified the familiar line in the them song, "You want to go where everybody knows your name." Indeed, everyone does like to be known by name, as it is a form of intimacy and familiarity that expresses value and acceptance. God modeled this for your by telling Moses that he knew him by name in Exodus 33:17. But learning a name is just the first step in knowing a person. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus told the disciples that the hairs on their heads were numbered and known by God. He knew more than their names.

Using a person's name in conversation helps you to connect with him.

One great way to keep track of information about a person is to keep a client card simply write the tidbits on the back of someones business card after you meet them. When you truly get to know those around you, you become intimately aware of their likes and dislikes, strengths and challenges, and burdens and celebrations. It is by knowing them that you can attend to their needs.

Your objective is to move your relationship deeper in the various levels of communication from superficial to significant. Purposeful communication can enhance your fellowship and build your opportunities for meeting the needs of others.

Selah people' and friends target two people with whom you have experienced only superficial conversation. Make it your goal to learn and remember one personal fact about each of them this week. We you see those people who you have now got to know better call them by name and see the smile that you put on their face. God knows each of by name so it is Godly for us to know our brothers and sisters by name as well.

"God's blessing upon you as you grow closer to those around you...your brother-in-Christ "Patrick" will be praying for you as you seek to grow closer to God and others."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston ~ via mobile at the park in Mt.Olive

No Man Is an Island...

Leaders can't become great alone...

God provides courage and comfort by not having us go it alone.

Today's Scripture:

Remember that I commanded you to be strong and brave. Don't be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you everywhere you go.

Joshua 1:9

Being Moses's successor in leadership must have been intimidating. Imagine knowing that your mission was to complete the job that even such a great leader as Moses could not accomplish. Joshua was reminded several times to be brave in the tasks ahead of him. Just the foreshadowing of future challenges within this advice would induce apprehension for most. Yet, Joshua did face his mission with courage and strength.

A natural impulse of people in frightening situations is to grab for someone close. Even some automobiles have embraced this notion and can provide voice-activated rescue if you become lost or endangered. Somehow just the knowledge that there is someone else sharing in the frightening experience is comforting to those in fear. People seek comfort and courage by clinging to others. Leaders are not very different when an intimidating challenge appears. A natural impulse is to call out for someone or something that can bring comfort and dispel your feelings of fear.

If you are new to your position of leadership like Joshua, or if you are a seasoned leader facing a new adventure, your courage can be attacked by fear. In those times, be reminded that you can be bold and courageous because God is with you. You do not have to back down from a challenge or venture because you are intimidated. You do not have to face your fear alone. Grab onto God to capture courage and stand strong.

Selah people' and friends if there is a new undertaking or challenge that you have been delaying out of intimidation, share the idea with a friend, family member or colleague. When you have another's support, you may gain the confidence you need to conquer your fears.

"Go forth with a spirit of courage not in yourself but in the power that God gives each of us."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Gold-Medal Leader...

Are we trying our hardest to run the race of life to win?

Today's Scripture:

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.

~1 Corinthians 9:24

Often, the difference between the runner who wins and the runner who loses is the motivation of the runner. The trophies or medals are not enough to motivate the tenacity needed for marathon or triathlete I tell this from my own personal experience.

However, more intangible rewards, such as integrity, compassion, courage, can be the fuel that keeps the runner in the race to win. An inner motivation must fuel the leader to run a winning race.

Without a goal, you have no reason to press toward what lies ahead. You can create goals for every area of your life, including family and spiritual goals. Equally as important as the goal is the real reward of achieving the goal. What you really want to gain from the experience is sometimes more than the superficial tangible prize. If your goal is to be the best sales person so you could win a cruise for your family, your success would be not for prestige or the honor of being the best but the motivating fuel would be your love for your family.

In leadership and in life, the goal is to finish your race. The way that you run your race will determine if your run was worthy of obtaining your prize. Your faithfulness to God and your commitment to others will help you to achieve success in your race. Run your race to win.

Selah people' and friends set three goals for yourself this week. For each goal, think of the character traits that you will need to move you toward achieving that goal. Target those traits and run your race to win, not just to finish.

"Peace be yours as you give 100% in this race called life."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Unconditional Love...

Have you been raised to stand on your own two feet...can you do it all alone?

Today's Scripture:

God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

John 3:16

You are often admonished to know what you believe in. You believe in hard work, stewardship, and integrity. Or maybe you believe in talent, fate, or luck. Knowing what you believe can help guide your path in life. But a question can be posed. In whom do you believe?

From early in life you are encouraged to believe in yourself. "Trust your instincts and appreciate your gifts," you have been told. You may have been reared or raised to stand on your own two feet in independence. Self-awareness, capability, and confidence are indeed desirable qualities in a leader. However, trusting in your own abilities or potential will sustain you only temporarily with partial effectiveness.

It is not enough to have faith in yourself alone.

Faith in God is not based on ability, work ethic, or achievement. It is an expression of trust that God in his sovereignty will enable you to succeed. John 3:16 explains that when you believe in him, you will have not only temporary benefits, but God's eternal life-giving power. He is the source of all knowledge, power, and life. In the daily challenges of leading others, you can trust that God will empower you to accomplish your desires. When you feel powerless to resolve a matter, realize that your capability comes not only from your skill; you have access to the real power source that created you. Trust in his ability instead of your own. Allow God to show you a way where you see no way.

Selah people' and friends think about five areas of your life in which you are trusting in God alone to provide an answer or direction for you. Pray in faith and believe that he is the source of provision. I tell you this from my own experience that if you allow Him to God will take you places you never thought possible.

"Peace be yours as you choose today not to just have faith in yourself alone, but in our risen savior."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston ~ via mobile @ Frema VW - Goldsboro, NC

The Golden Rule

How do you want to be treated?

Today's Scripture:

Do to others what you would want them to do to you.

Luke 6:31

What could be more embarrassing than being told that you have spinach in your teeth? Looking in the mirror at the end of a long day of important meetings and realizing that you had a green-stained smile all day and no one cared enough to tell you is humiliating. How you wish someone had said something. After all, you would have been kind enough to save someone else the same indignity. The golden rule seems simple enough. You have heard it since childhood.

But have you ever considered what it is that you want others to "do unto you"?

Until you have discovered what you want, you cannot deliver it to others.

Everyone seems to want his or her share of attention, approval, and opportunity from you. The needs of your followers can range range from a quick five-minute conversation to guidance on personal issues that affect their pro-fessional behaviors. Often, you are aware of needs that even they do not know they have such as training, correction, and motivation. The simplicity of the golden rule provides the essential wisdom you need to fairly divide your attention and approach your delivery.

The wisdom is quite simple. Do for them what you would expect for yourself. This wisdom fits all situations. It can save others embarrassment, provide awareness, or demonstrate concern. If you will treat others the way you want to be treated, you will produce a mutual acceptance and respect that enhances your leadership relationships.

Selah people' and friends when you doubt whether or not you should address an issue, ask yourself if your comments and behavior toward them are what you would want them to demonstrate toward you.

"Take time today to share the Love of God."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Equal Opportunity Deployment

Do you embrace diversity among friends, coworkers and all of God's people?

Key Scripture:

In Christ, there is no difference between Jew and Greek, slave and free person, male and female. You are all the same in Christ Jesus. You belong to Christ, so you are Abraham's descendants. You will inherit all of God's blessings because of the promise God made to Abraham.

Galatians 3:28-29

Embracing diversity is inviting each person to contribute his or here unique intelligence, creativity, and passion for the common goal of creating a multifaceted reservoir of abilities. You have a kaleidoscope of talents and skills among those around you, whether it is a circle of friends, church community, family, or business. When you appreciate the various strengths of individuals, the whole group is strengthened.

To appreciate the strengths of others, you must provide an opportunity for them to utilize their abilities. Develop trust with a broader range of employees by providing opportunities for them to prove their capabilities. Before you assign a new project, search your staff for someone who can develop with the assignment. Cross training and peer training are great ways for you to make learning opportunities available to less-experienced members while utilizing experts as mentors. Moms are often great at allowing older siblings to teach younger siblings. Being a big brother myself with a brother 5 years younger I grew up training him. The same concept is effective with adults. The more you teach others, the more you learn.

Make an intentional effort to broaden diversity. Invite new friends to your child's next play date. Deploy the young in the good ol' boy system. Send the woman into the man's world. Allow the expert to challenge the rookie. Do not let professional or cultural "that's how it has always been" mentality to dictate opportunities. A diverse team stimulates creativity and builds people socially and professionally.

Selah people' and friends invite a diverse group of friends for coffee, lunch or dinner to discuss a ministry or project or just to learn about one another. You may be surprised at the hidden talents of those around you.

"Peace be yours as we grow in diversity and grow in Christ."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Hugs and Handshakes

In Martial Arts we learn of honor and respect, how is it

that these who compete can shake hands, battle each other
hug and shake hands when the competition is over? Why
do we have trouble being able to hug and shake hands with
those whom we care about or don't even know who need it?

Today's Scripture:

By helping each other with your troubles, you truly obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2

Technology is great. It offers quick transfer of information, faster production processes, and immediate access to resources. However, reliance on technology has also brought with it dissociation from coworkers and customers. Technology lacks the human factor. For example, many school systems and large corporations now use automated services to receive call-ins from sick staff members. Although the system relieves the need for staff and is more efficient in handling the calls, there is no empathy expressed to the sick staff member.

With the luxury of email, voice mail, blackberry and multifunction cell phones, and fax machines, workers can go for hours, even day, with no real contact with coworkers, customers, or even their bosses. But people still have the need for a sense of belonging and purpose that comes through human touch and conversation. So, what are you to do as a leader? Where is the balance? I personally seek ways as a pastor, husband, father and friend to use the technology I have available to reach out to others through calls, emails, texts and yes even this blog as a means to share a thought and idea with people close to me, even if they are far away from me. Helping others with their troubles is a prime opportunity not only to please God but also to meet people's needs.

Take advantage of the opportunity to connect with others. The power of a handshake,hug or pat on the back can bring Hope to a discouraged member, friend or staff member. Although an e-mail note or e-card of encouragement is better than no comment or contact at all, it still is not as powerful as a personal conversation. Have a face-to-face encounter when expressing encouragement. Show empathy with a personal touch. Congratulate successes. Make eye contact to connect with others through your day and week. These actions create a sense of belonging and caring in a sometimes cold and isolated world.

Selah people' and friends slow down. Notice people's expressions. Does someone seem extraordinarily cheerful? Ask them why. Do you notice some one's hurried and frazzled demeanor? Stop and extend a hand or a hug. You could make another person's day.

"Peace be yours as you choose today to shake that hand, share that hug or just look someone in the eye and tell them just how much our God loves them."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston ~ via mobile at Wayne Orthopaedics Goldsboro, NC

Executive Coaching

Who is following in your footsteps...
you can multiply your influence by coaching others.

Today's Scripture:

Go and make followers of all people in the world. Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.

Matthew 28: 19-20


Jesus showed his great leadership ability in this statement. He first shared his vision with his leadership team. It is obvious that Jesus was sure of his remission. Then he told his team exactly what action he wanted them to take to accomplish it. He also instructed them to multiply their leadership influence. Finally, he reminded them of the importance of leaving a legacy. This is an example for you because it provides key elements to coaching others to fulfill your organization's mission.


You have heard the proverb "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime, but he could open a fish market and make plenty of money while feeding a village! You can multiply your influence by coaching others to succeed.


Follow Jesus's example of making disciples. First share the vision by showing that you believe in others' abilities to carry out the mission. Teach them the tricks of the trade that you have learned. Give them specific instructions on how to persuade or influence others to join vision. Then reassure them of your support and commitment to them.


Selah people' and friends be as sure of your mission as Jesus was of his. Then, teach others to become teachers of your mission. I have had many opportunities over the last 15 years both to spread the good news of the Gospel myself but more importantly those opportunities to coach others in their calling to witness where they are. You will multiply your influence and more greatly accomplish your purpose.


"Peace be yours as you share your influence by coaching others to succeed in the Christian walk."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Church Leaders Intelligence Report 4-15-2009

Click Icon above to open report...

Good afternoon Church!

Here is an update to this report of insightful information and current events for Christians. We are empowered when we are informed.

In Christ Service,

Rev Patrick Muston, pastor

Selah Christian Church Disciples of Christ
Four Oaks,NC

The Rest of the Story...

We need to grab hold of life and really look things over before making our decisions...

Today's Scripture:

The first speech in a cour case is always convincing- until the cross-examination starts!

Proverbs 18:17

Some people call it a gut feeling, while others may name it a sixth sense. Whatever its label, discernment arise is valuable to you, because many occasions for discernment arise in your week. For instance , you may be fully convinced of a marketing strategy or idea presented, until you hear the second proposal. Sometimes when choosing between options, with all things considered and equal, you just have to decide based on your own intuition.

However, discernment is not impulsive decision making. When you are pressed for time in your day, you can make a decision too quickly simply because the opening argument is convincing. Part of the process of discerning the truth is listening to the rest of the story as Paul Harvey used to say on his radio show.

It is important to hear all sides of a case before making decisions, especially when dealing with relationship issues.

Whether you are mediating a dispute or negotiating a compromise, it is beneficial for you to allow both parties to explain their behaviors, desires, and motives.

Being thorough benefits you in several ways. First, your family, friends, group, staff or customer feels valued because you cared enough to listen. Second, you may be able to get to a hidden cause rather than simply the symptoms of a problem. Third, you collect more information to make a confident decision. Others are looking to you for the answer - proper discovery will give you a keener discernment in providing those answers.

Selah people' and friends your organization counts on your ability to be both just and wise in "calling the shots." Discernment is one of your most valuable tools in powerful decision making.

"Grab life by the horns and look it in the eye to really see the whole story before you leap to make important decisions."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston (via mobile; Kitty Atkins ~Goldsboro, NC)

What to do when your not sure what to do?

Are your decisions made from a humble rather than a prideful attitude?

Today's Scripture:

He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?

Micah 6:8

Everyone is waiting for your decision. You are stumped. You don't have a clue what to do. You have made the pros and cons list, examined your strengths and weaknesses, asked your friends, associates or advisers, and even polled your leadership team, to no avail. You may even fasted and prayed . Still, you have no clear direction on what decision to make. What do you do?

Sometimes you find yourself in this predicament. When you are trying to make the greater of two good choices, or maybe the better of two bad choices, it is important to remember the guiding principles of justice, mercy, and humility. These principles can become a checklist for your decision. If you are humbly and mercifully making a just decision, you are probably headed in the right direction.

In your position, you have to prioritize funds, attention, and opportunity. You cannot always treat everyone equally in doing this.

When you know that you cannot do what seems fair to everyone, remember to do what is just - honest, right, and equitable.

Notice the scripture doesn't simply state that you should be merciful, but that you should love mercy. So, if you decide to withhold judgment that someone deserves, you should not do so begrudgingly, but willfully. Finally, you should strive to walk humbly with God. For if you act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly, you may not please everyone, but you will meet God's requirement of you.

Selah people and friends when you are facing a difficult situation, consult your checklist: Are you impartial in this choice? Is it merciful? Is this choice made from a humble rather than a prideful attitude?

"Peace be yours as you make the decisions in the manner God has directed."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

A Handy Reward...

We must diligently prepare the field and
nurture the crop to reap the reward!

Today's Scripture:

Well-spoken words bring satisfaction; well-done work has its own reward.

Proverbs 12:14

Growing a church, family or business is like farming a garden. A good farmer knows that farming requires more than just planting a few seeds to harvest. First, he must determine what crop he wants to harvest and choose the right season to plant his crop. Next, he must prepare the soil by tilling and nourishing it. Finally, he plants, fertilizes, and waters the seed. The farmer must patiently wait and carefully check the plant's growth and production before anything can be harvested.

Like a farmer, you and I must determine what we want to achieve. We must also consider timing as we prepare the people to receive our message by cultivating curiosity and engage interest. Just as the farmer plants his seed, you and I plant the goal of vision. You must patiently wait and carefully check the fruitfulness of your efforts as the leader. After a long process, the farmer and leader alike can harvest from all their diligence.

This proverb reminds you that hard work does pay off. You and I should strive to be the most diligent employee, member or volunteer in your company or organization. Leaders usually are. Sometimes you need to stop and remind yourself that your work should focus on the harvest you want to reap, not simply the work itself. Encourage yourself that the harvest will come when you diligently prepare the field and nurture the crop.

Leadership requires the diligent spirit of a farmer.

When you are diligent in planting and waiting, you will reap according to the work of your hands.

Selah people' and friends review your calendar for this week. Are you spending time both planting and harvesting? If not, schedule time to plant some new ideas for growth, or harvest results by completing an item in your calendar. As we move closer to Easter Sunday think of all that Christ did to both sow and reap. Allow his inspiration and determination to be your guide.

"Peace be ours when we work to spread the good news by sewing the seed of Christ."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Eye on the Prize

On my ride home from church tonight under a full moon,
I was reminded that we all must keep looking toward our goal.

Today's Scripture:

I know that I have not yet reached that goal, but there is one thing I always do. Forgetting the past and straining toward what is ahead, I keep trying to reach the goal and get the prize for which God called me through Christ to the life above.

Philippians 3:13-14

You have finally done it. You have been promising yourself that you are going to get into shape. Donning your new workout gear and shoes, you set out on the track or treadmill. Your plan to jog to a set point of perhaps of a mile and back. If your running on a familiar road you have a land mark you are trying to reach. You don't want to overdo it the first day. As you approach your mark, you are feeling pretty good, so you continue forward. As you approach the second-mile mark, you realize how winded and tired you are. Then, the biggest reality check occurs. You are past the halfway point. Whether you keep going forward or turn back, you have committed yourself to the full four miles! What were you thinking? Were you thinking at all? Maybe you were so in the zone or that song you had playing on your Ipod that you just lost track of time and distance. Either way it is on you now.

In your leadership role, you may have found yourself in a similar situation while running the course to attaining your dream. When you embark on the journey to fulfill the purpose you set out to accomplish, you have a passionate zeal to reach the goal. But at some point, sometimes at many points, you stop and monitor your progress. You may realize that the journey is longer, harder, and more tiring than you anticipated.

Your group, family or organization is counting on you. You are their running or strength conditioning coach.

If you sit down and give up, they will do the same. Applying the principle of "forgetting the past and straining toward what is ahead" can help you maintain your focus, allowing you to keep your team focused on the prize. I have experienced this in so many ways during my lifetime as a boy it was as a patrol leader in the Boy Scouts, as quarterback is was during those fourth quarter moments with less than 2 minutes in the game and victory being determined by a score or not, in business it has been those breakdowns that we figure out how to overcome to get the pickles packed and the orders met and most importantly in the church both you and I have to step up our game and not fall down and give up, but instead rise up and lift our teammates and assure them victory is in our grasp. All we must do is reach out and grab hold! Even if you know you have not yet reached the goal, keep running and celebrating the small victories of another step closer to the prize.

Selah people' and friends keep your eye on the prize. Do not look back at the starting line; it will only slow you down. Look toward the finish line and it is my humble prayer that one you and I will celebrate with our brothers and sister in Victory on the other side of the glorious line.

"Join me in celebrating the victories that God offers us when don't lose hope and don't give up on the prize he has waiting for us at the end of the race we call life."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Share the Load

Are you ready to share so that we can be a success?

Today's Scripture:

You shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers...Then it will be that every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they themselves shall judge. So it will be easier for you, for they will bear the burden with you.

Exodus 18: 21-22

Leadership can be exhausting! It is not a sprint, but a marathon. If you want to be able to endure the challenge of leadership over the long haul, it is important for you to share the load of leadership.

As your organization grows and your load of responsibility builds, you must sharpen your ability to delegate.

Delegation has a mutual benefit - it both relieves the leader and empowers staff. You must have a plan. Choose wisely those with whom you share authority, and issue responsibility according to the person's ability to carry out that responsibility.

You can start sharing the load by assessing where your organization is in the scale of management control and workplace freedom. Then, you create empowerment opportunities by finding areas that someone else can cover with at least 80 percent of your effectiveness. Once you find the area in which you can share, you must choose the people to whom you will delegate. You assign responsibilities according to your group members' capabilities and skill levels. Some members may need to be given specific and direct instructions before acting, while other may be able to work with a global idea and few boundaries. Some may need to get your approval before going to the next step, while others may be able to act with initiative and simply keep you informed of progress. The key is being intentional in the delegation of assignments and degree of freedom given.

Selah people' and friends when sharing the load of leadership, ask: "Is this decision being made at the lowest possible level?" If not, to whom can you delegate both the responsibility and the authority?

"Share the work as well as the joy of getting the work done."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Let's Do This!

Are you ready to rise up to God's challenge?

Today's Scripture:

Prepare yourself and arise, and speak to them all that I command you. Do not be dismayed before their faces, lest I dismay you before them.

Jeremiah 1:17

From reality shows today to extreme sports, players and competitors are heard shouting, "Let's do this!" or as one famous show maker coined "Just do it!"; many times this is heard in the face of fearful tasks. As a leader, sometimes you, too, have to get yourself pumped up to confront a challenge before you. In my high school days my best friend Marc Muller and I would head butt each other before the game (helmet less) and during the game with hats' on or before big plays or critical times. Jeremiah the profit had the task of bringing bad news to God's people. In essence God told Jeremiah, "Let's do this!" God's directive to Jeremiah is important you and to me as christian leaders because it presents a three-step plan of action to confront leadership challenges. As the leader you must (1) ready yourself and arise, (get pumped) (2) prepare yourself with information, support, and a plan, and (3) take a stand of confidence to set the plan in motion. Remember from some earlier blogs here that words without action are of little benefit to the body of Christ.

No leader ever enjoys bringing a disappointing financial report to the boardroom or announcing the need for staff downsizing. However, you and I have to present the truth, even the unfavorable news. Once you have prepared yourself with the facts of the situation and have formulated a plan of action, it is also your job as the leader to speak truthfully and courageously.

You cannot be apprehensive in your mission or shaken by fear in the face of your followers. You set the tone and level of confidence for the group or organization.

If you have a tough decision to make, then "Just do it" - make it.

But make it with courage and confidence, or your leadership will be weakened in the presence of others. No one wants to follow a wimpy leader, but everyone wants to follow a courageous one.

Selah people' and friends a positive attitude, courageous spirit, and reliance on God will equip you to conquer difficult tasks in the challenge of leadership and life. Get ready, get pumped, get up and get going. Let's do it!

"May God empower you today with the power of his Holy Spirit and give you the courage to face all tasks without fear."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Link to Selah Sermon April 5th, 2009

Selah Christian Church 2009 ~ Opens with Choir, scripture and then sermon...

To play or download the audio sermon either save or click this link or the one provide at http://selahchurch.com/ and when the screen below appears double click the file with the "musical note icon". Please let me know if I can assist.

Here is the direct link to this week’s sermon click below:

https://cid-af7ecca57d126f50.skydrive.live.com/self.aspx/Selah%20Christian%20Church%20Sermons%202008/sermon%20Apr%205th%202009.wav

(Illustration below of how to work the link to play or save Selah audio files)

God-Focus

Look beyond the board that is in front of your face...
focus on God and His glory!

Today's Scripture:

Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.

Matthew 6:33

Do you see the glass half empty or half full? Do you find yourself worrying what you will do if you don't make your budget at the end of the month? Are you often needing more to feel secure? If you are a leader as I am, you have the responsibilities and realities that carry financial burdens. You realize that if you do not make sales happen, then payroll could be affected. You carry the burden of not only feeding your family but all your staff members' families, are counting on you too. That reality can be worrisome. I see myself as a shepherd of two flock both my Pickle flock and my Selah flock and both need to be tended and fed.

So for me and I'm sure for you too, maintaining a God-focus is very important to peace of mind in the realities of the life of a christian and in leadership.

God-reality is faith. When you look at the glass, see that it is half full, but see the potential for even more. Know that God has provided for you, and believe that he is the source of all your needs. Look at what he has given to you in material resources and human resources with innovation. Think of the lemon. It is just a flavorful fruit. But with a little creativity, it is a resource for lemonade, lemon pie, lemon cake, lemon air freshener, lemon furniture polish and even lemon cleansers.

True contentment comes when you focus your mind not only on furthering your own business success, but also on furthering God's initiatives. When you focus on God's methods and trust him to provide what you need for success, you do not have to concentrate on lack. You can be content with the resources that God provides to meet your needs.

Selah people' and friends God-provisions often come in common packages, but have significant possibilities. Think beyond what is in your hand, and expand your thinking to the the reality of God-provision.

"Peace be yours as we begin this week with a new glass just full of opportunity as we put our focus on God."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Leadership Paralysis

Do you feel stuck and unable to make a
decision?

Today's Scripture:

Being afraid of people can get you into trouble, but if you trust in the Lord, you will be safe.

Proverbs 29:25

Have you ever felt stuck? You know, stuck, when you find yourself wedged between a rock and a hard place, where you are doomed if you do and doomed if you don't? If you have not yet been stuck, be assured - every leader will arrive at this place of decision paralysis. Immobility sets in because of your need of approval from other people. Your desire to be liked by your peers looms in the back of your mind, stalling your decision or action. This motionless place is where you are unable to carry out your decisions or even make them for fear of what others will think.

No matter how tough a leader you are, you do not want to lose friends or make enemies. You don't want your integrity or ability questioned. However, God has given you an expansive vision for your group or organization. You have a global perspective beyond what your constituents may understand. When you are stuck, you must remain the strong leader and make the tough decisions in spite of what the human opinion poll may reveal.

Thankfully, God specifically promises that if you put your trust in him he will protect you even when you are stuck.

The wisdom found in this particular proverb is especially important for the leader to remember, for if you seek to please God instead of your members, employees, customers, or peers in every decision, you can trust that God will protect your reputation and relationships, thereby enabling your effectiveness as a leader.

Selah people' and friends leading by fear of others disables your efficacy in decision making, but focusing on faith in God enables your success in leading your organization to effectiveness.

"Peace can be yours and mine if we can allow God to squash our fears."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

It Isn't Brain Surgery

Are you internally driven? Though it may be challenging
remember it is not brain surgery...

Today's Scripture:

Do not change yourselves to be like the people of this world, but be changed within by a new way of thinking. Then you will be able to decide what God wants for you; you will know what is good and pleasing to him and what is perfect.

Romans 12:2

Your parents may have counseled you to let your conscience be your guide. That may have been great advice when the world did not have so many shades of gray. But you no longer live in a black-and-white world. The lines of morality and ethics have been blurred. However, God's principles are unchanging. They are an ever-timely guide to living.

Because your role is vital to your group or organization's values and ethics, your staff members take their cues from you. Your compromises become their compromises. Your boundaries impose their boundaries. So, from whom do you get your boundaries and cues? Ask God to guide you. Through prayer and Scripture, you can learn how to do what pleases him rather than what pleases people.

You must be driven by your internal, spiritual convictions and personal values. You cannot let external drivers force your internal choices.

Sometimes being internally driven will mean standing alone in your conviction.

Yours may be single voice speaking out for justice. You might even be the only associate who refuses to pad your expense account. But if you are a leader with integrity, it is worth the stand. If you cave in to comfort of commonness, you will cultivate a culture of compromise. If you emphasize the expectation of ethics, you will encourage an environment of excellence. Learning to be internally driven can be challenging; but it is not brain surgery, just a new way of thinking.

Selah people' and friends to be internally driven, you must know your own personal values. After prayerful consideration, list your top three to five personal values that you will be absolutely unwilling to compromise. Review your values daily and as my friend Scott Peele says "Be strong." Especially at those things that matter...remember its just not that complicated.

"Peace be yours as you allow your inner being to be led by God."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Counterfeit Leaders

Are you a confident leader?
Who does God say you are and are you a friend of God?

Today's Scripture:

A wicked man hardens his face, but as for the upright, he establishes his way.

Proverbs 21:29

A fine line exists between confidence and arrogance. Confident leaders are self-assured enough to believe that they are competent in their abilities. Arrogant leaders are self-deceived enough to believe in their abilities alone. Of course, there are also counterfeit leaders who are just trying to fake it until they make it. Others will decide if they want to follow you based on their confidence in your ability to lead them, so your self-assurance is vital to your leadership. If you cannot genuinely convince yourself, you will never convince them!

In his "looking glass theory," Charles Cooley explained that a person forms his or her self-perception from three sources: who others think you are, who you think your are, and who you think others think you are. If any of those perceptions are out of balance, you may develop an unrealistic ego, self-doubt, or paranoia. You also must consider another perspective...who God says that you are. In the Scripture, you and I are called God's beloved, an oak of righteousness and a friend of God.

When you balance God's image of you with others' images of you, together with what you know of your abilities and strengths, you are better able to form healthy confidence that compels others to follow you. You do not have to fake it until you make it. You can be sure of yourself, even when you aren't sure of the situation.

Selah people' and friends if you want to have committed followers, you must be a confident leader. To be the real deal, begin to see yourself with the potential that God see in you. In 1983 I was inspired on the field to assume the role as a field general and leader of men. Today some 26 years late God still uses that confidence to lead others in ministry ultimately to encourage them to grow in Christ. Are you for real? If you have your doubts build confidence know Christ will give you all you need to accomplish His great works.

"Grab someone today and give them a hug or handshake and let them know how much God loves them. Remember we need honest leaders to help lead God's people."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Seasoned to Taste

Don't leave others with a bad taste about God...
help improve the flavor of their lives

Today's Scripture:

Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone.

Colossians 4:6

You can be ready to answer others with communication that is full of flavor if you are mindful to season your words. Much like food, your words alone may provide the substance needed. But sometimes you can make your words more palatable by the extra flavors you add to them. A leader can preserve hope, purify motives, and promote integrity through seasoned communication.

A favorite seasoning for almost any meal is salt. Of course it adds flavor to a dish, but it also has many other uses. Salt is used in canning as we do in my other work at the pickle company to preserve freshness and life. It also purifies one of the world's most precious resources, water. In addition to its cooking properties, salt can melt ice and snow. In ancient times, mothers even rubbed salt onto babies' skin to toughen it against bruising.

When you need to console someone who has experienced great loss or when you must confront an issue with a colleague, you may find yourself speechless, wanting to say just the right thing in the right way. When you aren't sure of the answer, think of salting your speech. Choose words that give life and hope. Choose words that are truthful and honest.

Your words can melt hardened minds and hearts if you choose them carefully.

You can promote healing for others by what you say to them. The right answer is to communicate hope and truth that bring resolution.

Selah people' and friends make it your goal for people to leave your presence feeling better about themselves or their situations than they did before you spoke with them.

"Don't put salt in the wounds of others that are hurting, instead choose to savor the opportunity to encourage and add a flavor of Love through the words that you speak."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston

Church Leaders Intelligence Report 4-1-2009

Hope this report finds you and your family doing well. Thank you for taking the time to stop the Selah Christian Church Blog.

In Christ service,

Rev Patrick Muston
Pastor

Stellar Effort

Angels
If instead of a gem, or even a flower, we should cast the

gift of a loving thought into the heart of a friend,

that would be giving as the angels give. - George MacDonald

Today's Scripture:

In every work that he began in the service of the house of God, in the law and in the commandment, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart. So he prospered.

2 Chronicles 31:21

You can be committed to many things. You may be committed to being successful, achieving goals, building a reputation, serving customers, producing quality products - the list is exhaustive. There is one area in particular that you must be committed to as well. You must be mindful of serving God. Working hard, generating profit, and demonstrating net growth are not enough.

Seeking to please God is what it takes to be prosperous.

The truth found in 2 Chronicles 31:21 is important because it establishes the precedent for prosperity-an advantage every leader desires to achieve. To become truly prosperous, you must seek God and serve others.

Your efforts must be excellent in serving God's purposes. You can achieve this even if your organization is not a ministry. Carefully honor God personally and professionally by serving others. You are his representative of grace and compassion to those around you.

If you seek to please God with all your heart, then you will prosper. You please God when you serve others on his behalf. Your people...family & friends profit personally when your group or organization prospers not only monetarily, but spiritually, socially, and educationally. Making a stellar effort can be as simple as writing a not of encouragement, sharing a meaningful Scripture, or lending a helping hand. The bottom line really is prosperity for others.

Selah people' and friends identify someone today in your circle, group or organization who has had a difficult week. Decide how you can make a difference and help them prosper spiritually or socially today. Then serve God by answering the call and doing what you can to encourage them.

"Joy will come after the sorrow and it will be led by your Stellar effort for Christ."

Your pastor,

Rev Patrick Muston