I want to hear your heart and not your brain.
If you listen to me, I may listen to you.
At best, I’ll remember one thing you say.
Your message is only one of thousands I’ve already heard today.
When you admit you’ve messed up, it reminds me that you’re real.
I’m not convinced it’s truth.
I’m moved by stories.
When you make me laugh, I engage.
I hear it, but sometimes I need to see it or feel it or experience it.
I’m watching to see if you keep your promise.
I think it’s funny that you still think you control your message.
Polished scares me.
In order to speak to me, you can’t speak to everyone.
I’m not impressed by big words.
If it’s not about me, I’m not listening.
Your message has more impact when you shorten it.
It’s OK if you don’t have an answer for everything.
What are your questions?
Your message has impact if someone disagrees.
You’d be wise to participate in our online conversation.
I know it seems awkward, but it helps me when you repeat the important stuff.
Your message is not for you.
I don’t have to listen to you.
home run bro!
Wow. Convicting…
I’m going to print that and re-read it several times.
Thanks Tony.
I just added that to my journal. Amazing!!!!!!
Kinda leaves God out, doesn’t it? Specifically, the Holy Spirit. I always thought it was the work of the Holy Spirit to convict. We just preach Christ; crucified, risen, and coming again? Amen?
That’s pretty profound Tony. I love it. I believe the Holy Spirit works through “decently and in order” and considering my audience so that I communicate effectively is all about decently and in order.
Jim, what’s funny is the fact that I never indicated this post had anything to do with preaching.
That aside, I couldn’t disagree with you more as it relates to presenting the Gospel. Obviously, the words matter, how we say it also matters. The condition of our heart matters. Our compassion for addressing the physical and emotional needs of those we’re trying to help also matters.
Think about the conversations you have with people in your life. Your relationship with the person you’re talking to and how you express yourself is just as, if not more, important than the words you use. If you don’t believe me, just ask my wife. :-)
You’ve opened a good dialogue, Jim. I think we’d all be wise to consider your questions.
tony
Wow Tony that was good. It was a good reminder of how people perceive me and my message. Though you may not have meant it to be about preaching, it reminded me that my message is all about “Him”, communicating it is all about “them”.
Thank you for this message. I have printed these powerful words and taped them up in front of me. I needed to be reminded what a true message was as I begin teaching a group of ladies this week. Thanks!!
I’ll take “What are things individuals think for 1,000?”
Now that’s what I’m talkin bout. You’re droppin it like it’s hot. :)
tony. awesome post. i think you got lucky… dude, thanks for your heart for church leaders.
john bishop