Category Archives: Uncategorized

Gladly Accept Imitations

Posted on May 16, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Who we are and what we think comes through in a variety of ways—our words, our actions, even our facial expression or tone of voice. So it’s important that the message we communicate is consistent—not only in the sense that … Continue reading →

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Lay It Down: an introduction to the introduction

Posted on May 13, 2011 by Carl Simmons

As previously mentioned, Fridays are a time to put the new writing out there. In most cases it’s still unrefined. In other words, don’t mistake this for a finished product, but accept the germinating ideas for what they are and … Continue reading →

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View (Your Faith) Like Jazz

Posted on May 12, 2011 by Carl Simmons

“Life in concert with God—ultimately that is what we are practicing for.” Time for another overlooked inspiration of the past couple years, and the 2nd of 3 to come out of that fated 2009 National Pastors Convention. This book has … Continue reading →

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Relationships Take Time

Posted on May 11, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Think about your best friend, or about a best friend you had while growing up. Why is (or was) that person your best friend? How do you develop stronger friendships with others now? And here’s the big question: How can … Continue reading →

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You Can’t Do It Alone

Posted on May 9, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Think about a past transition in your life such as a move, a new job or position, or a major change in your family. Who helped you most through those changes? How did that person help you? The fact is, … Continue reading →

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Lay Down Your “Head”: a fragment about insight

Posted on May 6, 2011 by Carl Simmons

“[H]umbly welcome the message implanted within you, which is able to save your souls. But be sure you live out the message and do not merely listen to it and so deceive yourselves. For if someone merely listens to the … Continue reading →

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Simple Isn’t Easy… Only Worth It

Posted on May 5, 2011 by Carl Simmons

This week’s Other Voice is one I first heard a little more than 2 years ago. It still remains my favorite new book since that time, and maybe my favorite book ever in terms of making an actual connection between … Continue reading →

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The Meaning of Commitment

Posted on May 4, 2011 by Carl Simmons

Think about the last “meet-and-greet” social situation you attended. (For me, it was a men’s retreat this past weekend — I didn’t even know the other 3 guys from my church, let alone the other 80 or so from elsewhere … Continue reading →

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Who Do You Love?

Posted on May 2, 2011 by Carl Simmons

“Frequently in our attempt to achieve Pentecost we bypass Calvary.…Here is the spiritual principle: die, and then bear fruit.” — Watchman Nee, The Messenger of the Cross Let’s kick off this week by taking one more look at what Jesus … Continue reading →

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Third Time’s the Charm

Posted on April 28, 2011 by Carl Simmons

James Bryan Smith. The Good and Beautiful Community: Following the Spirit, Extending Grace, Demonstrating Love. Hardcover, 240p., $22.00. IVP. I have to confess: For all the buzz and provenance surrounding them (Richard Foster and Dallas Willard, the latter more or … Continue reading →

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