CBMC International

For many years I have held the conviction that the “sacred/secular” distinctions we sometimes hear about are not supported anywhere in the Bible. Clergy and missionaries may have been given specific roles, along with the necessary gifts and abilities to fulfill them. However, in God’s sight, the job of an executive, sales representative, administrative assistant, … Read more

How do you know if you are a leader? Check and see if you have anyone following you. Having followers is the demonstration that there is some kind of leadership taking place. John Maxwell, world-renowned author and leadership authority, once said, “If you think you’re a leader and you don’t have anyone following you, you’re … Read more

You have probably noticed just how complex life has become. Business and professional people scan through hundreds of emails every workday to locate about a dozen relevant to their business. Even many retired individuals comment on how busy their lives have become even after their careers have ended. They often reflect on  how much more they used … Read more

Emotions are curious things. We see them on display at weddings, sporting events, family gatherings, and in public demonstrations. They can range from joy and happiness, with smiles and laughter, to deep sadness with tears and agonized cries. They can reflect high-spirited enthusiasm or deep-seated anger. In the home, emotions can provide a secure environment … Read more

Every year the first Monday in September is designated Labor Day to celebrate the social and economic achievements of American workers. Unfortunately, research is showing appreciating and understanding the value of work is on a steady decline. A Gallup study, for example, indicated employee engagement declined in 2022 to 32 percent. This means more than … Read more

(Editor’s Note: This is the second of two parts.) Last week I wrote about how I discovered the value of a quiet getaway, not only for business planning but also – and more important – to address the spiritual dimension of life. My encouragement for you is that you resolve to get quiet as often … Read more

(Editor’s Note: This is the first of two parts.) Several years ago, a friend suggested a getaway to a retreat center once every quarter to do business planning. He said this was helping him keep on track with his goals personally and in his business. As a goal-driven person, I took his suggestion seriously and … Read more

Have you ever noticed how many functional things come in twos? A bicycle, for instance, not only has two wheels and tires but also two pedals. Can you imagine trying to participate in a bicycling competition with only one pedal? Airplanes can fly with a single engine, but if one wing falls off, disaster will … Read more

Leadership. There are many perspectives on what a conventional leader looks like, but years of experience have taught me that if we are serious about living out our faith in today’s marketplace, what is required is unconventional leadership. Here are some examples: 1) Unconventional priorities. A boss once asked me to sign off on certain legal documents … Read more

Years ago, I worked with a professional engineer I will call Jim – a very religious man known for his stoic, professional demeanor. Initially wary of the beliefs of colleagues from different denominations, Jim found himself drawn into a discipleship relationship that would change his life forever. Engaging in weekly lunchtime discussions with Jim, centered … Read more

Have you ever been on a treasure hunt? They come in a variety of forms. Some involve a crudely drawn treasure map like legendary pirates of centuries ago followed. An ‘X’ marked where their treasure had been hidden. Some treasure hunts are progressive, with ‘hunters’ guided by one clue that points to the next one. … Read more