Seek Wisdom

Posted on October 8, 2024 by Mark Cole

In today’s fast-paced, information-saturated world, the need for true wisdom is more critical than ever. While knowledge can be found with a few keystrokes, wisdom is something deeper—something that guides our decisions, shapes our character, and aligns our lives with truth. The Bible, especially the book of Proverbs, offers us timeless principles on how to seek and attain this priceless treasure: wisdom.

Here are some key principles on how to pursue and embrace wisdom in your life:

1. Fear of the Lord: The Foundation of Wisdom

The book of Proverbs repeatedly emphasizes that the “fear of the Lord” is the starting point for wisdom. This is not fear in the sense of being afraid, but a deep reverence and awe of God’s power, holiness, and authority. When we approach God with this kind of respect and humility, we open our hearts to receive wisdom from Him.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10

This reverence is a heart posture of submission, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and aligning our lives with His ways.

2. Seek Wisdom in God’s Word

The Bible is a rich storehouse of wisdom. To seek wisdom is to immerse yourself in Scripture, allowing God’s Word to shape your thinking, decision-making, and values. The more time we spend in the Word, the more we grow in understanding.

“The unfolding of Your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.” – Psalm 119:130

Reading, meditating on, and applying God’s Word are crucial steps in the pursuit of wisdom. In fact, God’s wisdom will speak to every area of your life if you let it guide you.

3. Pray for Wisdom

Wisdom isn’t something we can attain by our own efforts alone. The Bible encourages us to ask God for wisdom, trusting that He is generous and eager to give it. Solomon, the writer of many Proverbs, prayed for wisdom when he became king, and God granted him unparalleled understanding.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5

When you seek wisdom in prayer, ask with faith, expecting God to guide you and give you insight for the decisions and challenges you face.

4. Listen to Wise Counsel

Another key to attaining wisdom is to surround yourself with godly, wise people. We are not meant to walk alone on the path to wisdom. Proverbs teaches that wise individuals listen to advice and seek out wise counsel. Whether through mentors, pastors, or trusted friends, we can learn a great deal from those who have walked the road ahead of us.

“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” – Proverbs 12:15

Learning from others’ experiences and wisdom can help us avoid mistakes and gain clarity in difficult situations.

5. Embrace Humility

Pride is a barrier to wisdom, while humility is its doorway. Proverbs frequently contrasts the wise person, who is teachable and open to correction, with the fool, who refuses instruction. True wisdom comes from recognizing that we don’t have all the answers and are willing to learn and grow.

“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” – Proverbs 11:2

Being humble means acknowledging our limitations, accepting correction, and being willing to learn from both our successes and our failures.

6. Learn from Life’s Experiences

Wisdom isn’t just theoretical—it is practical and lived out through experience. The Bible teaches that discipline, including the trials and corrections we encounter, leads to wisdom. Life’s challenges often teach us some of the most valuable lessons, refining our character and sharpening our understanding.

“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of His reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom He loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.” – Proverbs 3:11-12

Embrace life’s difficulties as opportunities for growth, knowing that God is using them to teach and shape you into someone wiser.

7. Live Righteously

Wisdom isn’t just about having knowledge; it’s about living righteously. Proverbs links wisdom with integrity and upright living. The wise person doesn’t just know what is right but lives it out in their everyday actions.

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity.” – Proverbs 2:6-7

Living according to God’s moral standards not only honors Him but also leads to sound judgment and discernment.

8. Avoid Foolishness

Finally, attaining wisdom involves actively avoiding folly, which the Bible defines as reckless living and rejection of God’s truth. Proverbs repeatedly warns against the path of folly, which leads to destruction. Wisdom calls us to make intentional, God-honoring choices.

“One who is wise is cautious and turns away from evil, but a fool is reckless and careless.” – Proverbs 14:16

Rejecting sin and embracing a life of discipline, purity, and obedience to God protects us from the pitfalls of foolishness.

A Lifelong Pursuit

Seeking wisdom is not a one-time event but a lifelong pursuit. The Bible offers a wealth of guidance on how to live wisely—beginning with reverence for God and extending to practical actions like seeking counsel, living righteously, and learning from life’s experiences.

As we walk this journey, we can trust that God, the source of all wisdom, will guide us in every season of life. Whether you are just starting out or have been walking with God for years, the pursuit of wisdom will continue to enrich your life, help you make sound decisions, and deepen your relationship with the Lord.

Are you seeking wisdom today? Start by turning to God, asking Him to guide you, and immersing yourself in His Word. As you take these steps, you’ll discover that true wisdom is not only worth seeking but it is life-changing.

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The Secret To Learning Difficult Skills

Posted on October 7, 2024 by Mark Cole

Have you ever seen a musician or an athlete and wonder how they got that good? Each of us are born with different talents. But none of us becomes an expert at something overnight. That is where diligence and personal discipline separates people who are good and people who are great!

It wasn’t until I was in university that I really learned the secret to conquering difficult skills. It is a  secret that can be transferred into many areas of study. Here is the secret! Break down the difficult skill into daily bite size pieces. What part of that difficult skill or task can you learn today? Then daily, step by step, slowly add to your skill level until you conquer that skill. 

Let me give you an example from my musical studies. I once had to learn a extremely difficult piece of piano music that was around eighty bars long. It was a way above my skill level. But I realized that I could learn the first two or three bars today if I just slowly broke them down and spent a couple of hours practising. I would learn the right hand for the first few bars and then I would learn the left hand for the same section. Then I would slowly put the hands together at 1/4 speed and slowly increase the speed until I had learned those few bars perfectly.

Then over a matter of a few months, working on the music daily, I slowly learned more and more bars until I had mastered that piece of music. It was just a matter of slowly learning a bit more each day in a disciplined manner. I simply learned how to practise properly and diligently. I learned not to practise my mistakes but to slowly learn something bit by bit and daily add to that knowledge.

It’s a powerful principle! I have applied it to learning new sports. I have applied it to memorizing large portions of the Bible. And, I have applied it to orchestrating large musical scores with dozens of musical instruments. It works for so many areas of life.

Learn to break down the larger problem or challenge into bite size chunks. Learn to tackle that project daily and build on the success of the day before. It is amazing what difficult skills and projects that you can conquer if you slowly develop the skills and knowledge on a daily basis.

God has given us amazing minds and bodies. If we apply great discipline, diligence and wisdom, it is amazing what we can do! It is amazing what difficult skills we can master.

Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.
Jim Rohn

All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize.
The Apostle Paul

The discipline you learn and character you build from setting and achieving a goal can be more valuable than the achievement of the goal itself.
Bo Bennett ~ Tech Guru

We all naturally want to become successful… we also want to take shortcuts. And it’s easy to do so, but you can never take away the effort of hard work and discipline and sacrifice.
Apolo Ohno ~ Olympic Gold Medal Speed Skater

We must all suffer one of two things: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret or disappointment. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons!
Jim Rohn

Check out my new book: “Leading Worship ~ Notes from a Grand Adventure’. It is now available in Kindle or Soft Cover Editions.  This is a great gift for the musician or worshipper in your life.

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Can You Really Trust God?

Posted on October 5, 2024 by Mark Cole

Have you ever come to a crossroad in your life and wondered if you can really trust God to show you the right way? Will God really deliver on His promise to direct your path?

I don’t know how it is for you, but God always has better plans for me than I have had for myself. When I was eighteen years old and thinking about what my life’s occupation would be, I was sure that I would be a school music teacher. God had other plans. He wanted me to travel and use my musical abilities in evangelism.

Later on, when I turned thirty, God directed my path to lead worship in a church. I had never considered leading worship. But again, God knew me better that I knew myself

Later on in life, (in my forties). I thought I would write music full-time for a living and stop leading worship. God had other plans. He wanted me to travel again and lead worship all over the world. He wanted to be involved with seeing thousands of people accept Jesus and to see some amazing miracles and healing. God has always had a better plan for my life than I have!

My life’s verse, the Bible passage that God brings to my memory again and again, is Proverbs 3:5-6… ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.’

God has shown me, time after time, that He will direct my paths. If I try to figure things out using my own wisdom, I am invariably wrong. I have learned that God just wants me to trust Him and acknowledge Him in everything I do (i.e. put Him first place in all my activities). He has promised to show me the right path from there.

I love the part of the verse that says ‘don’t lean on your own understanding’. That is often very hard to for me to do! My human mind wants to figure things out for myself, to make my own goals and plans. But, I’ve learned that God goals and plans are so much better than mine.

So take my advice. Trust God. When you get to those crossroad in your life, learn to trust what God is saying to you. Seek God, spend some time reading the Bible, praying and maybe even fasting. God really does have a better plan for your life than you can imagine!

Check out my new book: “Leading Worship ~ Notes from a Grand Adventure’. It is now available in Kindle or Soft Cover Editions.  This is a great gift for the musician or worshipper in your life.

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Raise the Bar: Hard Work and Enthusiasm in Worship Leadership

Posted on October 4, 2024 by Mark Cole

As I was reading Romans 12 this morning, Paul’s words, “Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically,” challenged me. They reminded me of the essential role that a strong work ethic plays in worship ministry. Too often, we may find our teams stagnating—not because of a lack of talent or resources, but because we aren’t fully committing ourselves to the work with the enthusiasm and diligence Paul speaks of.

One of the key ways we demonstrate this commitment is by serving our teams well. It’s not just about what happens on stage during a worship set; it’s about the preparation, organization, and leadership that go on behind the scenes. Hard work and intentionality create an environment where teams can flourish and reach new levels of excellence. Here are some practical ways to serve your music team well:

1. Serve by being organized 

Give your team song lists and charts at least 4-7 days before rehearsal. This allows them time to practice and come prepared. Being ahead of the game creates space for creativity and fosters a sense of confidence.

2. Serve by scheduling early  

Schedule your team a minimum of 3-4 weeks in advance. This helps them plan their time and prioritize their ministry involvement. When people know their commitments ahead of time, they can offer their best with a sense of peace, not scrambling to fit things in.

3. Serve with quality resources

Provide great charts and clear recordings for your team to work from. When your musicians have the right tools, they can focus on honing their skills and nailing their parts rather than being confused by unclear resources.

4. Serve by preparing the space  

Set up the rehearsal space and gear each week, so that everything is ready and organized when your team arrives. This simple step shows respect for their time and removes distractions, helping everyone focus on the music and the mission.

5. Serve by respecting time 

Start and finish rehearsals on time. Time management communicates that you value your team’s commitments. It also instills discipline and creates a rhythm that benefits the entire team.

6. Serve by being prepared yourself 

Know your personal musical parts well and be ready to assist others with theirs. Whether it’s helping with vocal harmonies or instrumental sections, your preparedness will elevate the rehearsal experience and inspire confidence in your team.

7. Serve by being spiritually prepared 

Finally, don’t neglect the spiritual preparation. Spend time with God before you lead or rehearse. Lead from a place of spiritual overflow, so your team knows you care about them not just as musicians, but as individuals growing in Christ.

Hard work in music ministry isn’t just about playing the right notes or executing a flawless set—it’s about offering our entire lives as living sacrifices to the Lord. Music is a very powerful way to glorify God and build His church. Paul’s challenge to “never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically” is a call to approach every aspect of our ministry with reverence, diligence, and passion.

When we give our best, we allow God to work powerfully through us. And when that happens, it’s a beautiful and transformative thing for the entire church.

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Why Does God Heal Some and Not Others?

Posted on September 28, 2024 by Mark Cole

This is a question many of us wrestle with at different points in our lives. It’s a question that often arises when we’re faced with illness or watching someone we care about suffer. As a pastor and someone who has experienced healing personally, I, too, have pondered this difficult issue. While we may not fully grasp why God chooses to heal some and not others, there are a few biblical truths that can anchor us as we navigate this profound mystery.

1. God Still Heals

One thing I know for certain is that God still heals today. The Bible is filled with accounts of miraculous healings, from the Old Testament to the New. In fact, Jesus spent a significant portion of His earthly ministry healing the sick. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” The same power that healed the blind, the lame, and the leprous still heals today.

I’ve experienced healing in my own life, and I have personally seen many others who have been miraculously touched by the hand of God. This gives me confidence in God’s ability and willingness to heal. When we approach God with faith, we can trust that He hears our prayers and has the power to intervene in supernatural ways.

2. The Mystery of God’s Will

Despite the clear reality that God heals, we also must face the fact that not everyone is healed—at least not in the way we expect or hope for. This can be incredibly difficult to understand, especially when we are praying fervently for ourselves or others.

God’s will is often a mystery to us. Isaiah 55:8-9 tells us, “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.’” Sometimes God’s purposes in allowing suffering or withholding healing are beyond our comprehension. This doesn’t mean God is indifferent to our pain, but it does remind us that His wisdom is infinitely greater than our own.

One biblical example that comes to mind is the apostle Paul. He prayed three times for God to remove a “thorn in the flesh,” but God did not take it away. Instead, God told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). In Paul’s case, God allowed him to live with this weakness to teach him greater reliance on divine strength. In the same way, God’s purposes in our lives might involve something deeper than physical healing.

3. The Role of Faith in Healing

Throughout Scripture, faith is often tied to healing. Jesus frequently told those He healed, “Your faith has made you well” (Matthew 9:22, Luke 17:19). James 5:15 tells us, “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up.” Faith is a powerful force that connects us to God’s healing power.

But faith is not a magic formula. It’s important to remember that healing is not dependent solely on the strength of our faith, nor does a lack of healing indicate a lack of faith. There are people of tremendous faith who have not received the healing they’ve sought, and we must be careful not to add to their burden by implying that they are at fault for not being healed.

4. Healing Comes in Many Forms

While we often think of healing as being purely physical, the truth is that God’s healing can take many forms. Physical healing is just one aspect of God’s restorative power. Emotional, relational, and spiritual healing are equally significant, and sometimes more so. A person may not be physically healed in this life, but they might experience a deeper healing in their soul—a peace, a joy, or a closeness to God that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Additionally, as believers, we hold onto the promise of ultimate healing in the life to come. Revelation 21:4 gives us this assurance: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Even when healing doesn’t come in this life, we can rest in the hope of resurrection and eternal restoration.

5. Our Responsibility to Keep Praying

Although we may not always understand why some are healed and others are not, we are called to keep praying. Jesus instructed His disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). In heaven, there is no sickness, no pain, and no death. When we pray for healing, we are asking for a glimpse of that heavenly reality to break through into our earthly lives.

The Bible encourages us to be persistent in prayer. In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus tells the parable of the persistent widow, illustrating the importance of continuing to ask and not giving up. When we pray for healing, we do so in obedience to God’s Word, trusting that He hears us, loves us, and has our best interests at heart.

Conclusion

In the end, we may never fully understand why God heals some and not others. But we do know this: God is good, God still heals, and we are called to keep praying in faith, trusting His wisdom and sovereignty. Our prayers may not always be answered in the way we expect, but we can trust that God is at work, both in our lives and in the lives of those we pray for.

As we navigate the complexities of sickness, suffering, and healing, may we find comfort in the fact that God is always with us, providing grace and strength, even in the midst of unanswered prayers.

This is a message not only of faith but also of trust—trust that God’s ways are higher than ours, and trust that His love for us remains constant, even in the face of mystery.

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Serving The Church And Your Family

Posted on September 23, 2024 by Mark Cole

My pastor recently asked me to participate in his message on Sunday by answering this question: Mark – You are a husband, a father and a grandfather, you have served in ministry with your wife, you have raised your kids and now they serve in ministry, you have grandkids now. How have you balanced serving and family, and what has been the impact on your family that you still see to this day?

Here is my response:

Thank you for this opportunity to share. As a husband, father, and now grandfather, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is the value of daily time with God, reading His Word, and being faithful to His house. My wife, Anna, and I prioritized having a healthy, loving marriage, fostering a peaceful home, praying daily for our children, attending church weekly, and involving our children in serving in God’s house.

We also made it a point to enjoy life with our kids, planning yearly holidays and family outings like sailing, house-boating, skiing, amusement parks, and camping. We were blessed to give them a broader perspective of God’s work around the world by taking them on mission trips to Africa, Europe, Asia, and the US.

At home, we encouraged our children to use their gifts and talents to glorify God and serve the church. We reinforced the importance of reading the Bible daily, attending and serving in their youth groups, loving the church, and being part of worship teams whenever opportunities arose.

Even after they grew up and moved out, we continued our tradition of weekly family dinners, where we kept the conversation positive about the church and its leaders. We celebrated their spiritual milestones, such as water baptisms, and prayer remained a key part of our family life, especially before meals. Our goal has always been to model what it means to follow Jesus, both in private and in public.

Today, we see the fruit of those efforts in the lives of our children and grandchildren. My daughter, who is married to a pastor, serves as a worship pastor at a large campus in Napa, California, and my son and his wife are part of the worship team and children’s ministry at their church in Toronto.

It’s a blessing to watch my 15-year-old granddaughter lead worship in her youth group, and my 13-year-old grandson play drums. We eagerly anticipate how God will work in the life of our 3-year-old granddaughter.

I love the words of the Old Testament Joshua when he declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” As grandparents, we believe deeply in authentically modeling God’s faithfulness, encouraging, and teaching our grandchildren. I now have the joy of teaching my grandkids piano and guitar weekly, and I can see the seeds of faith and service that were planted in our family through our commitment to loving and serving God.

I am deeply grateful for God’s faithfulness and how He continues to work in the lives of each of our kids and grandkids. He truly is a good, good Father.

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The Quiet Strength of Humility in Competition and Creativity

Posted on September 22, 2024 by Mark Cole

I love to compete in sports, especially racquet sports and I also love to lead worship. I have discovered that humility is a foundational principle in both life and faith, and it plays an essential role in the worlds of music and sports. Whether we are engaging in worship through music or competing on the court in a racquet sport, humility paves the way for personal growth, better performance, and deeper connection to God and others.

Drawing from both biblical wisdom and sports psychology, let’s explore how humility shapes our experience in these two areas.

Biblical Foundations of Humility

The Bible places a high value on humility, often linking it to wisdom, strength, and favor. Proverbs 22:4 says, “True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life.” Whether in music or sports, this wisdom holds true. Humility allows us to recognize our need for growth and grace, preventing pride from blocking our progress.

In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul encourages believers, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” This humility isn’t about belittling ourselves but about recognizing our need for God’s grace and others’ contribution to our journey. As musicians, we serve the congregation by pointing them to God. As athletes, we respect our opponents and understand that the game itself can teach us lessons in perseverance and strategy.

Humility in Sports: A Path to Excellence

In sports, humility has a profound impact on performance. Sports psychology teaches that athletes who approach their sport with humility are more open to learning, improving, and adapting. This mindset aligns with the growth mindset theory, where athletes who believe they can always improve are more likely to push through challenges and setbacks. Humility opens the door to resilience, helping athletes avoid complacency or overconfidence, which often leads to underperformance.

When I play racquet sports, I notice that my game improves when I acknowledge that my opponent could beat me. This forces me to stay focused, work hard, and remain adaptable. If I allow pride to creep in—believing I am unbeatable or too skilled to fail—I lose focus and my performance suffers. Humility, however, keeps me in a state of readiness, where I am constantly refining my skills and strategies.

Sports psychologists also highlight the danger of overconfidence. While confidence is crucial for success, overconfidence often blinds athletes to their weaknesses, making them vulnerable during competition. Humility acts as a safeguard against this, ensuring that we stay grounded, keep learning, and respect the challenge before us.

Humility in Music: A Path to Worship

In music, particularly in the context of worship, humility has a unique role. As musicians leading others into God’s presence, it’s vital to remember that the purpose is not to showcase our talent but to point others toward God. Psalm 95:6 reminds us, “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.” Worship is a humble act, acknowledging that God is the source of all talent and creativity.

Humility in music means being open to feedback, learning from other musicians, and recognizing that every song or service is a collaborative effort. Just like in sports, pride in music can hinder growth. A musician who believes they’ve “arrived” or mastered their craft may become stagnant. By contrast, a humble musician constantly seeks to improve and allows others to shine alongside them.

Worship leading, in particular, requires humility because it’s not about us. It’s easy to get caught up in how well we play or sing, but true worship comes when we focus on God’s glory, not our own. Humility opens our hearts to be vessels through which the Spirit can work, making our music more impactful.

Common Ground: Humility as a Path to Growth and Connection

Both in sports and music, humility fosters growth and connection. In sports, humility drives us to improve, respect our opponents, and learn from every game. In music, humility helps us stay open to creative collaboration, constructive feedback, and deeper spiritual connection during worship. Whether on the court or in the sanctuary, humility is key to bringing out the best in ourselves and others.

Finally, humility allows us to see the bigger picture. In sports, it’s not just about winning, but about enjoying the game and learning from it. In worship, it’s not about how well we perform, but about connecting with God and leading others into that connection. The more we humble ourselves, the more we make space for growth, grace, and excellence—both in our performance and in our hearts.

Conclusion

Whether you’re competing in a sport or leading worship through music, humility is a key to success and personal growth. From the sports arena or court to the stage, this virtue helps us remain focused, resilient, and open to the lessons and challenges that unfold along the way. As the Bible teaches, humility leads to honor, long life, and wisdom—and sports psychology shows us that it leads to excellence in performance as well. So let us embrace humility in every aspect of life, trusting that it will guide us toward greater fulfillment, purpose and excellence.

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The Secret to Joy

Posted on September 17, 2024 by Mark Cole

In a world obsessed with the pursuit of happiness, joy often feels elusive. We chase after success, relationships, experiences, and possessions, only to find that true joy remains just out of reach. Yet, the Bible speaks of a joy that transcends circumstances—a joy rooted not in fleeting pleasures, but in something eternal and steadfast. What is the secret to this kind of joy?

1. Joy is Found in God’s Presence

Psalm 16:11 reveals a profound truth:
“You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

The secret to joy begins with recognizing that it is not something we manufacture on our own. True joy is found in the presence of God. When we draw near to Him, when we walk closely with Him, we find the kind of joy that cannot be shaken by the ups and downs of life. This joy comes from knowing that we are loved, accepted, and cherished by the Creator of the universe.

2. Joy Comes Through Trusting God

In Romans 15:13, Paul writes:
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Trust is essential to joy. When we trust God with our lives—our worries, our plans, our future—we experience a deep sense of peace. That peace opens the door to joy because it allows us to rest in the knowledge that God is in control, and He is good. Even in the face of uncertainty, we can rejoice, knowing that God’s plans are for our ultimate good (Jeremiah 29:11).

3. Joy is a Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22 lists joy as a fruit of the Spirit:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…”

Joy is not merely an emotion; it is the supernatural result of the Holy Spirit working in our lives. As we surrender to God’s Spirit, He produces joy in us. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but flows from a heart transformed by God’s grace. It is the kind of joy that endures through trials, challenges, and even suffering.

4. Joy in All Circumstances

One of the most surprising truths about biblical joy is that it is possible even in the midst of difficulty. The Apostle Paul, who endured immense suffering, wrote these astonishing words:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).

How could Paul rejoice while imprisoned and persecuted? His joy was not tied to his circumstances but to his relationship with Christ. He knew that no matter what happened in this life, his hope and identity were secure in Jesus. This is the secret to joy in every season—our joy is rooted in the unchanging character of God.

5. Gratitude Fuels Joy

A grateful heart is a joyful heart. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says:
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Gratitude is a powerful tool in the pursuit of joy. When we focus on what we have—God’s love, His blessings, the gift of salvation—it shifts our perspective from what we lack to what we’ve already been given. This attitude of thankfulness transforms our hearts, allowing joy to flourish even in challenging times.

6. The Joy of Serving Others

Another key to joy is found in serving others. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). When we serve and love others as Christ did, we experience a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. Our lives become less about our own desires and more about living for God’s purposes. In pouring ourselves out for others, we find joy that is far more satisfying than anything we could seek for ourselves.

Joy in Every Season

The secret to joy is no mystery to those who seek it in the right place. It is found not in the temporary pleasures of this world, but in the eternal, unchanging presence of God. It is a joy that grows as we trust Him, as we walk in the Spirit, and as we serve others with grateful hearts. This joy is available to everyone, in every season of life—whether in times of abundance or in times of trial.

As we turn our hearts to God, let us remember the words of Nehemiah 8:10:
“Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

The joy of the Lord is not just a fleeting emotion—it is a source of strength, endurance, and hope. And that is the secret to a life of lasting joy.

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God With Us: The Power of His Presence

Posted on September 16, 2024 by Mark Cole

One of the most profound truths of the Christian faith is the reality that God not only created us but desires to dwell within us. The idea of God living in us is more than just a theological concept; it is the very foundation of how we experience life, faith, and spiritual transformation. This divine indwelling is central to our relationship with God and our identity as His children.

God’s Presence: From Creation to Indwelling

Throughout Scripture, we see a God who is not distant or disengaged but deeply involved with His creation. From the moment God breathed life into humanity in Genesis, His intention was to be with us. The psalmist echoes this truth:

  • Psalm 139:7-10: “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence?”

This recognition of God’s omnipresence—His ability to be everywhere at once—extends beyond creation. While God is present in all things, the New Testament reveals an even more intimate relationship: God living within us. Through Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit, God moves from being around us to being within us.

Christ in Us: The Hope of Glory

Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, speaks of a “mystery” revealed through the Gospel:

  • Colossians 1:27: “To them God has chosen to make known the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

What does it mean for Christ to live in us? It means that through the Holy Spirit, the very presence of God—His love, wisdom, and power—takes residence within us. This truth transforms the way we view our lives. No longer are we simply human beings trying to live for God. Instead, we are vessels through whom God works, shaping our lives from the inside out.

This divine presence is the source of our strength, the core of our identity, and the assurance of our salvation. We are never alone because the living God is with us and in us.

The Holy Spirit: God’s Power Within

The Bible teaches that when we come to faith in Christ, the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our hearts. Jesus promised this to His disciples before His death and resurrection:

  • John 14:16-17: “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.”

This indwelling of the Holy Spirit means that God is no longer external—guiding from a distance—but internal, actively transforming our hearts and minds. The Spirit empowers us to live out our faith, convicts us of sin, leads us into truth, and fills us with the very presence of God.

Through the Holy Spirit, we are connected to God in a profound way. This relationship is personal, dynamic, and life-changing. The more we yield to the Spirit’s work, the more our lives reflect Christ.

God Living Through Us: The Call to Action

The indwelling presence of God is not just for our benefit. It is also the way God works through us to impact the world. When Paul says that “God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him” (Philippians 2:13), he reminds us that we are vessels of divine power. God’s love, grace, and truth are meant to flow through us into a world in desperate need of hope.

As believers, we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ. This means that God’s presence within us should overflow into our actions, words, and relationships. When we live in the power of the Spirit, we become agents of change, shining the light of Christ wherever we go. It’s not by our strength, but by His presence within us.

Unity in the Body: God in All

Paul’s declaration that “there is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all” (Ephesians 4:5-6) emphasizes not only the personal nature of God’s indwelling but also its communal aspect. God lives in each believer, creating a unity that binds us together as His family.

This unity is essential to the mission of the Church. The same Spirit that dwells in me dwells in you, and together we are part of God’s plan to bring His kingdom to earth. Our shared connection to the living God empowers us to love one another, serve one another, and work together for His glory.

Embracing the Presence of God in Us

The truth that God lives in us changes everything. It redefines how we see ourselves, how we interact with others, and how we view our purpose in life. With God dwelling in us through His Spirit, we are never alone, never powerless, and never without hope. Christ in us is the hope of glory—the assurance that we are being transformed day by day into His image.

As we embrace the reality of God’s indwelling presence, we can live with confidence, knowing that He is working in and through us. Our lives are no longer our own; they are filled with the very life of God. May we daily seek to surrender to His Spirit, allowing God to live, move, and work through us for His glory and the good of the world.

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
— Galatians 2:20

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7 Keys To Starting In A New Worship Ministry

Posted on September 9, 2024 by Mark Cole

Are you starting to lead worship in a new church? Has God called you to a new ministry? It can be intimidating! I have been working in music ministry for over thirty years. Let me share what I’ve learned from my personal experience.

Worship Ministry

1. God has called you and He has given you what you need to be successful.

When God calls you, He gives you the ability to do the job. My first full-time church job was conducting and writing for a 100 voice choir and 25 piece orchestra. I was 27 years old and totally intimidated. But God was faithful.

Time after time I have seen the hand of God challenging me to the next level of the ministry that He has called me to. Trust God, He is with you. He will give you the ability to do what is needed.

“I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”  ~ Philippians 1:6 NLT

2.  Take time to know the pastoral staff.

This is the team that God has called you to work with. Go for coffee with them. Get to know them as individuals. They are great people with great hearts. Learn to love them.

If you can, have a weekly meeting with the Lead Pastor. You need to know his heart and vision. And you need his support and help.

3.  Make a list of the songs that the congregation has sung over the last year.

Start where the congregation currently is. Find the songs that they have been singing that also work for you. You never want to sing a bunch of songs that the congregation doesn’t know.

4.  Make a list of all the musicians and singers and learn all their names.

The worship team (or choir and orchestra) is your flock, your spiritual responsibility. Learn to know them. Find out what they do and like as individuals. Learn their names. Learn to love them.

Recently, I asked each of the worship team to be my friends on Facebook. Then I used their Facebook pictures to make a list, so I could memorize their faces and names.

5.  Get to know the culture of the church

Every church is different. Their music is different, their worship is different. You need to adapt to their culture. Sometimes it’s not the congregation that needs change, sometimes it’s us. Find out what the church does well and embrace it. But, also learn where they need to improve and slowly work on change.

6.  Make changes slowly.

Congregations traditionally don’t like a lot of change. But, it is amazing how much you can change a congregation and worship team, if you are willing to do it slowly. Think long-term, think months and years instead of weeks.

7. Go for it!

When all is said and done, you have a job to do! They have asked you to lead because they think that you’re the best person for the job. Lead with boldness. Be strong and courageous. Do not fear, God is with you. Go for it!

Check out my new book.. “Leading Worship ~ Notes from a Grand Adventure’ available in Kindle or Soft Cover Editions.  This is a great gift for the musician or worshipper in your life.

This blog is part of my vision to train over 100,000 worship leaders around the world. If you would like to support this vision you can help by giving any amount via PayPal.

Posted in Church, God, Leadership, Wisdom, Worship | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment