In 1969, Laurence J. Peter wrote a satire, promoting what is now known as “The Peter Principle,” which states that in a hierarchy, every employee tends to rise to his level of incompetence. More than 2,000 years ago, our Lord’s disciple, Peter, demonstrated a different Peter Principle, focused not on hierarchy but on service, leading not to personal incompetence, but to God-inspired competence. Michelle Coleman, Promotions Manager at the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove, offers advice to help us follow in Peter’s steps.

As Christians, we often feel the guilt and responsibility of meeting the needs of unhealthy people in our lives. Whether a sibling, parent, spouse, coworker, or friend, toxic people frequently seek to frustrate our life’s calling. Author Gary Thomas urges us to turn away from the impossible task of mollifying toxic people; it’s time we dedicate our energy to the only worthwhile effort: completing the work God has given us by investing in reliable people. It’s only when we learn to say no to bad patterns that we can say yes to the good work God has planned for us.

What are the dynamics that can bring a bored Christian or a dull church experience and bring it to life? Jorge Pina, founder of DC for Jesus, shares his story and describes principles that have launched him into a movement of God’s Spirit that has touched many. As you learn from his story, consider your own and ask God to use you as an instrument to bring life into the church of our day.

The Christ of the Bible exuded power over darkness; he set the captive free. Why then do so many Christians today seem weighed down with burdens and overcome by doubt, temptation, and fear? The Bible says we are engaged in spiritual warfare every day, and unless we learn how to fight with the wisdom and armor of God, we are likely to walk in defeat. Neil Anderson, who has taught countless Christians how to overcome darkness through Christ, provides key understanding for your life and mine. Link

We read in John 10 that Christ speaks to us by name and with a clarity that causes us to follow him. Yet how often do we really hear God’s voice? Spiritual mentor and coach Paul Norcross believes that, rightly understood, the Scriptures teach us how to hear God’s voice not just on rare occasions, but for every occasion. God is not content to leave us abandoned to our own devices and directions, but He desires to lead us with the shepherd-like love and care that we read about in the Bible—it is available for us today.

Why is it that so many churches and Christians seem to be losing their connection with the world? When Jesus walked the earth 2,000 years ago, he related to everyone. Kings were challenged by him, children were welcomed to him, the downtrodden were encouraged by him, the sick were healed by him and his disciples followed him. If we are following his ways, should the Biblical message of love and truth not also be relevant today? Ministry expert Steve Harris offers practical insights and tools to help us make the Gospel relevant by making Christ central and discipleship natural.

Well-known author and pastor Jerry Vines shares vital truth for dynamic preaching based on decades of effective ministry. As a nationally-known expert on sermon development and delivery, his thoughts can motivate pastors to sharpen their preaching and teaching skills. These same insights can also lay the groundwork for more effective teaching for anyone who is influencing others with God’s matchless Word.

What separates business in general from business done in God’s way with God’s heart and passion? Eva Steward shares key principles for being a Christian in the marketplace and for making impact in the lives of clients and employees. She believes that God’s kingdom is as vast and pervasive as the Bible declares it to be, having implications for your life and mine no matter what kind of business or ministry we lead.