In Preaching Articles: "Christmas Joy"

Does Our Culture Make Kids Feel Ashamed Of Their Faith?

By Focus On The Family on Sep 8, 2022

As Christians, we all know how important it is to equip kids with a sense of joy in reading God’s Word and the confidence to freely express their faith in Jesus. But that goal is becoming more difficult in today’s culture.

Tags: Apologetics The Bible, Training children, Children's Faith

Restore Passion To Your Preaching: Three Essential Steps

By Ken Davis on Aug 27, 2024

Many pastors quietly lose passion in the pulpit, preaching out of duty rather than delight. This article explores why that happens and how renewed preparation, dependence on the Spirit, and gospel-centered humility restore joy and power.

Scripture: John 12:20-30, Isaiah 55:11, Philippians 1:18, 2 Corinthians 4:5, John 15:5  (view more)  (view less)

Tags: Holy Spirit

Leading *chreasters* To Christ: 8 Ideas

By SermonCentral .com on Dec 17, 2025

Christmas and Easter bring many first-time church guests. Learn practical strategies churches can use to connect with holiday visitors and encourage them to return.

Scripture: Luke 19:10, Matthew 28:19, John 3:16, 2 Peter 3:9, Romans 10:14  (view more)  (view less)

Tags: Evangelism, Church, Outreach, New, interest, evangelism, church  (view more)  (view less)

20 Powerful Mother's Day Sermons And Worship Resources

By SermonCentral .com on May 4, 2021

Mother's Day is the 3rd-highest church attendance day of the year, after Christmas and Easter. This is a great opportunity to reach both new visitors and current members with the Gospel.

Tags: Worship, Preaching, mother's day, preaching

The "Measure Up Mentality” In Today’s Church

By Charles Stone on Dec 12, 2021

The ‘measure up mentality’ can suck the joy out of ministry. By applying a few simple ideas, you can stay positive and encouraged in your ministry even when you feel you don’t measure up in the eyes of others.

Scripture: Psalm 62:5

Tags: leadership, Preaching, pastor, Laziness, hard work, Pastor, Leadership, preaching  (view more)  (view less)

What Your Congregation Wants To Hear At Christmastime

By Joe Mckeever on Dec 14, 2023

Joe McKeever helps reframe our calling: "The people who make up your congregation do not require anything new from you regarding the Christmas story this season or any season. "

Scripture: Matthew 1:1-16

Tags: Preaching, preaching

Vacation Bible School Promotion And Communication, Part One

By Lisa Eifert on May 14, 2024

What strikes simultaneous fear and joy in the hearts of church staff and volunteers this time of year? Yep, you guessed it, Vacation Bible School (VBS). Anyone who has been a part of planning VBS knows the vast amount of time, resources and imagination that go into making these events memorable experiences for kids.

Tags: Communication, Technology, delegation, VBS, communication  (view more)  (view less)

Brokenness In A Pastor’s Life

By Charles Stone on Jun 28, 2023

As I enter the sixth decade of my life and reflect over the brokenness I’ve faced as a pastor, I’m beginning to see its great value. It still hurts and I’d prefer not to face it. Yet, I’m experiencing the fruit of brokenness: inner peace, joy, and a purpose that supersedes ‘ministry success.’

Scripture: John 12:24

Tags: Healing, Rejection, brokenness, success in ministry

Honor Your Grandchildren’s Father And Mother

By Nancy Wilson on Jul 5, 2024

As grandmothers, we are to do more than simply cheer for our children and grandchildren and buy them Christmas jammies (though we should certainly do those things and more). Our foremost duty is to fear the Lord and obey him every day of our life.

Scripture: Psalm 103:7, 2 Timothy 1:5

Tags: family, parenting, Grandparents, GRANDCHILDREN, Prayer for Others, Family Relationships, future generations, Faithful Prayer  (view more)  (view less)

Understanding Halloween: A Biblical Perspective For Believers

By Josh Read on Oct 27, 2025

As the autumn leaves start to crunch underfoot and the air is turning crisp, Halloween pops up on our calendars once again. For so many, it's all about the costumes, candy, and a bit of harmless fun. But for us as believers, it often sparks some thoughtful questions: Is this just a lighthearted holiday, or is there more we should consider in light of our faith? Let's dive into Scripture together and explore a gentle, biblical lens on Halloween that helps us navigate it with grace and joy.

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Philippians 2:4, Matthew 22:39, Ephesians 6:12, Deuteronomy 18:10-12  (view more)  (view less)

Tags: Halloween, advice, Pastoring, church leadership, Church Leadership, pastoring, halloween  (view more)  (view less)