Drive for Show, Putt for Dough

Michael Catt

I love to play golf. I’m not that good at it, I just love the game. On the golf course, I have one rule; don’t talk to me about church. Golf is where I let down, unwind, and get my mind off my job as a pastor.

I’ve never been great at the game. I’m not a student of it. I’m not constantly working on a swing technique. The lowest handicap I’ve had in my adult life (outside of my swing) is a 10. My goal is to one day, at least for one day, get it to single digits. When that happens, it will be one more confirmation, “There is a God.” Continue reading “Drive for Show, Putt for Dough” →

Don’t Be a Foolish Thinker

Michael Catt

The word “fool” is used nearly 40 times in the book of Proverbs. Solomon used it more often than any other writer in Scripture. The word appears primarily in the wisdom literature. It was used to describe a person who, in general, lacked wisdom. Sometimes a fool was one who despised wisdom or discipline.

According to Proverbs 12:15, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel.” Closely tied to this train of thought, Proverbs 14:7 teaches us, “Leave the presence of a fool, or you will not discern words of knowledge.” Continue reading “Don’t Be a Foolish Thinker” →

A Word for Preachers — But You Can Listen

Michael Catt

What should a preacher be known for? What is the purpose of preaching? In a day with multimedia special effects, drama and major productions, preaching and preachers have fallen on hard times. Many churches have canceled Sunday evening services because people won’t come back to hear the preacher. With the glut of TV preachers, the country preacher struggles and suffers when his people compare him to “Brother Spit and Polish.” What’s a called man to do? Continue reading “A Word for Preachers — But You Can Listen” →

Church Staff Retreat @ The Cove

Michael Catt

Coming up on August 9 and 10, I have the privilege of leading a seminar at The Cove especially designed for church staffs. This two-day church staff retreat offers inspiration and education for church and parachurch ministry teams. The program includes plenary sessions and Q&A, as well as time to meet together with your team for planning, interaction, and reflection. Continue reading “Church Staff Retreat @ The Cove” →

A Change Is Going to Come

Michael Catt

In case you were unaware, this is an election year. During the last presidential election, I wrote an article that I think still applies to this election…

This is a year of change. There will be a new President, perhaps a new party in the White House beginning in 2009. In the next few months, we will elect a new leader of the free world. Whether he or she is able to do the job is yet to be seen. There will be changes in the White House, in Congress, in cabinet positions. Washington is already gearing up for a change. Continue reading “A Change Is Going to Come” →