Minister's Toolbox

Gary DeRosa faced hard time after deciding to rob a local bank shortly after he was married. After six years in prison, he met a drug dealer who invited him into the world of crime. Hear his inspiring story about how Christ captured his heart and took him from Prison to a pulpit sharing his faith with the world.

For many years, pastors and their congregations have cried out for God to send revival, but do we know what we are asking for? Revivals of the past brought massive upheaval in the church, often condemned by the very leaders who prayed it would occur! Are we ready for a genuine revival in our day? Is it possible, that it is already underway? Let's talk about that in today's video.

Technology has dramatically increased our access to information and teaching. It has also afforded many Christian celebrities to influence hundreds of thousands via YouTube and other platforms. Have people in your church endangered their faith by listening to the "prophets" of social media? During this podcast, I want to identify one source leading people toward a destructive belief system at odds with scripture. Don't miss it!

Have you ever been ashamed to ask for a raise at your church? Do you find ministry discouraging because you cannot pay your bills and work part-time to meet? Join me as I interview Jon Sanders and Les Hughes from Entrepastors. They share an utterly refreshing approach to how pastors can engage the culture without compromising their calling. Connect with Entrepastors. See my recent book recommendations.

Bible Schools, seminaries, and denominational meetings spend enormous amounts of time helping future ministers preach well. The focus is doctrine, presentation, and effectiveness, but something basic is often missing. Ministers spend on average eight hours preparing sermons, but many fail to make an impact. Have we been missing the target by failing to recognize something obvious to our hearers? Join me today for an insightful podcast.

Most of us have preached or used this phrase in our ministry, but have we ever turned the spotlight toward our vocation? Tragically, most pastors evaluate themselves solely based on performance, using comparison with others as the chief standard. As a result, most pastors live emotionally depleted lives, running from pillar to post to prove their self-worth. Today, we take a step back to ask a few simple questions to ensure the health of our souls.

The cross is a message pastors preach in thousands of churches throughout the world each week, but what does the cross mean in real-time? Paul said that he lived a crucified life and, through that experience, preached the gospel. What does it mean to live a crucified life, and how does that impact a pastor's life and ministry?

Pastors face problems, challenges, and trials of their faith each day. It is frustrating when many do not get resolved and pile one on top of another. Have you ever reached the breaking point and, seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, learned that it is yet another trial heading your way? Welcome to the club! Today, I share a biblical yet straightforward strategy for turning trials into triumphs, and the secret is hidden in plain sight. Join me! Connect with me at @ministerstoolbox@gmail.com. Check out R.T. Kendall's Book.

Whether you realize it or not, you have accumulated pearls throughout your time as a gospel minister. These pearls have value, but are you sharing them with people who don't appreciate them? Jesus' warning is particularly appropriate for those in ministry who give so much of our time, only to be devalued by those who should know better. I speak today about your pearls and how to avoid pigs!  View the video series on the prophetic.   Check out my books on Amazon.

Unforgiveness is challenging - especially when people hurt or slander our reputations. Pastors are no different when it comes to releasing those who have hurt them. Today, I share a universal problem that nearly every pastor faces in day-to-day ministry with respect to forgiveness. I hope you can join us! During the podcast, I share a free resource for any leader who wants to explore the biblical gift of prophecy. Many seem to misunderstand how this gift is designed to benefit the church, and some misuse it all together. 

Some might rightly ask, Has worship lost its meaning In Today's Church? Churches worldwide compete to display the "best" worship sound, lights, band, or voices. Is that worship from God's perspective? Some churches declare they have "contemporary" worship. What is that, and is the statement true. The sad reality is that our worship, in many cases, is just another form or ritual we endure before listening to a sermon. Is that what God meant in John 4:24 when Jesus said the Father is seeking worshippers? Probably not. What does New Testament worship look like, and has the church fallen away from what God defines as the worship He enjoys? Join me today for an inciteful examination not of our style but of our methods in worshipping the One, True, God. During today's podcast, I mentioned, Bob Sorge. You can access his books on Amazon.

If you're driving your car and notice the steering wheel pulling in one direction or another, it should alert you to a problem with your wheels. In all probability, your tires are out of alignment, and if you don't get this fixed, they will wear out faster and more unevenly over time. The same principle applies to many things in life and particularly ministry. Due to the recent pandemic and seemingly endless crises in the news, many leaders have unknowingly fallen out of alignment with God's vision, direction, or purpose in their vocation. Today, I speak about getting back to some basics of what ministry is truly all about. During the podcast, I mentioned my latest book, Foundations that you can view on Amazon. 

When choosing to follow Christ into church ministry, the vast majority of us embrace the call with high expectations. We have dreams of reaching many people, and building a large, effective church. Along the way, life happens. In many cases, our dreams turn into nightmares. What is God doing and where did our dreams go? Join me for this important podcast!

Changing the way you interact with the public is crucial to reaching emerging generations. Unfortunately, most churches are stuck in old ways, using old methods that are no longer effective. How can a leader guide a church through change with the least amount of conflict? Join me for today's podcast.

The word anointed means different things to different people. What is the biblical basis for anointing and how does it apply to the church today? Do you know what God has anointed you to accomplish? Is this how you spend the majority of your time? Some important questions to consider on today's podcast.

Ministry is about problem-solving. People come to us with all kinds of difficulties, and we are called to help them get a resolution. What about our problems and challenges. Today, I share a unique problem-solving method you've probably never heard about that can change your life in the future (and it comes from an unexpected source).

In this second part of a two-part series, I expand on last week's discussion about the qualifications for church leadership. Paul taught Timothy to look for people who manage their own houses well. What does that mean? What are the ingredients necessary to manage one's house well because this determines how they will manage God's house? During the podcast, I mentioned the progress made with our Wells For Zimbabwe Project. Enjoy this brief video showing the sheer joy of people receiving fresh water. https://youtu.be/LOLf6x27JW0

If we fail to raise the next generation of leaders in our churches, the work we do now will have little or no impact. How do we discover and then train new leaders to pick up the mantle for the next generation? Join me as we follow Paul's directions for selecting new leadership.

Would you be willing to make one small change to transform your life and ministry? Today, just by making a simple decision, the trajectory of your life can change. By making this adjustment, God will do amazing things in your family, your life, and your ministry. Join me now!

Have you wondered, "What is the purpose behind your God-given authority? Anyone truly called to ministry is granted authority to advance His Kingdom on earth. How does someone receive this authority? What is it used for? When can authority become dangerous? How should authority be used in the church? During today's podcast, I discuss the origin and use of legitimate spiritual authority. Do you need help discerning proper spiritual authority? Check out this link.

Pastors can think of many things that threaten to derail their ministry: financial woes, sexual temptation, carnal board members, and several others. Today, I speak about a threat that most pastors are unaware of, yet if left unattended, is potentially lethal to effective ministry in 2022 and beyond. Join me for this noteworthy podcast! In today's podcast, I offer a free download. Get it here.

Wouldn't you appreciate a simple, free tool that could help you identify and train new leaders for your church? You're in luck! During today's podcast, I will share a simple tool that requires little or no training on your part but can yield amazing benefits to your ministry. Buy Me A Coffee! Leave a Fresh Review On iTunes

One of the most basic tasks of any minister is to preach in such a way that people experience the Presence of Almighty God. Some think that a scholarly presentation of scripture will accomplish this, yet people leave disappointed. How can we bring the Presence of God into our church that leaves people wanting more? Did you want to help contribute to making this podcast possible? Click here to buy me a coffee.

On today's podcast, I interview Greg Holder, lead pastor of The Crossings. Greg is an author and speaker with a passion for the local church and how God designed us to thrive. His leadership and influence have taken him around the globe, helping communities, churches, pastors, and leaders work towards spiritual, relational, and organizational health. Today, we discuss how pastors can change the culture of their church and city. Get Greg's New Book, Genesis One. Connect With Greg. Would you like to help support this podcast? Buy me a coffee!  

Lathan Craft knows something about reaching prodigals. Growing up, his mother worked as an exotic dancer. Then tragedy struck when both his parents died before he was seven years old. At his mother's funeral, the pastor told the audience she was a Christian (which he knew not to be true). This pushed him away from the church, but God intervened in his life. Lathan developed a heart and skill to reach those forgotten or neglected by the church. Don't miss this fantastic testimony! During today's podcast, I offered a free download Lathan wrote called, Three Reasons People Are Actually Leaving Your Church. This brief ebook will give you insights on how to reach prodigals.   

Leaders lead. We all know that. But do we understand the difference between leading and managing? Most of us think they are the same. Your church needs management to be sure but needs a leader even more. Today's podcast shares a simple change in how you do ministry that will revolutionize how you see yourself and your calling. Join me! During the podcast today, I mentioned the work of Dean Radtke at MinistryInstitute.org. I encourage you to interact with his materials. Another resource I did not mention during the podcast is Seth Godin speaking about the differences between leadership and management. Though not ostensibly Christian, you will find his word pungent in separating one from the other. I also mentioned a brief video you can watch about our work in Zimbabwe. We are partnering with Foundationsforfarming.org to train residents on how to utilize the water from their new wells. Watch the brief video here. 

The Church has largely remained silent over the past decade whenever the acronym LGTBQ is mentioned. Some denominations have adjusted their theology to accept and welcome homosexual and transgender communities into their leadership ranks. Others declare their love for the LGTBQ community to avoid a media backlash. In this second part of a two-part interview, Matthew Karchner shares his journey as a committed member of the gay community for many years, telling why he left. Listen as he shares insights on how to reach those practicing the LGTBQ lifestyle and share the truth of the gospel of Christ. Don't miss it! Although not an official  endorsement, these two are ex-gay ministry resources: https://settingcaptivesfree.com/ https://harvestusa.org/ I am also willing to help in terms of talking through issues, praying with, and giving advice. My parents are great for sharing lessons learned with parents of those who struggle. - Matthew Here is our testimony video series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFqVfr5Dl7kBYd7K2_EMiMSIn_-virRZX Here is how to contact us: castawayministries.org/contact  

The Church has largely remained silent over the past decade whenever the acronym LGTBQ is mentioned. Some denominations have adjusted their theology to not only accept but welcome the homosexual and transgender communities into their leadership. Others strain to declare their love for these communities while avoiding any hint of rejecting people for fear of media backlash. You don't want to miss this two-part interview! Matthew Karchner shares his journey as a committed member of the gay community for many years, why he left, and his view on reaching the homosexual and transgender communities with the truth of the gospel of Christ. I mentioned my recent trip to Zimbabwe. Here is a summary of our work there.  To connect with Matthew.

The Church largely ignores the subtle strategy destroying young people today. While we prepare sermons to inspire, Satan is busy infecting the next generation with misinformation designed to damn their souls. How can we combat this demonic strategy in our churches? Today, I interview Dennis Ritchie from Oasis Church in Cheshire, CT, who shares insights from the Book of Daniel. Connect With Dennis Ritchie Like my Facebook page to follow us in Zimbabwe Subscribe to My YouTube Channel to watch Videos From Zimbabwe.

Commander Michael H. Imhof, U.S. Navy (ret.), and former Navy SEAL, was born in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and raised in Blasdell, New York. He attended the State University College of New York at Buffalo, where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree. After completing Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training in Coronado, California, Commander Imhof was assigned to SEAL Team TWO, subsequent Naval Special Warfare commands, and other duty assignments. He was commissioned in 1973. Commander Imhof, possessing a Naval Special Warfare designator, has served throughout the world in numerous positions. Assignments include Platoon Commander, Training Officer, Operations Officer, Staff Officer, Executive Officer, and Commanding Officer. A graduate of the U.S. Army Special Forces Officer Qualification Course, he earned a Master's Degree in Administration from George Washington University. He served as an instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy. His awards include Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Meritorious Service Medal with two Gold Stars in place of second and third awards; Joint Service Commendation Medal; Navy Commendation Medal with Gold Star second award; United Nations Medal; and other service awards. He has lived in Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Panama, South Korea, Liberia, Sudan, Somalia, Sinai, and Afghanistan, besides serving in numerous other countries. On 17 December 1981, he was hijacked in Southern Lebanon while on duty with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization. He believes his later escape was truly a blessing of God. Commander Imhof, a military officer of strong Christian convictions, is ready and willing to share his faith with all. He is convinced that the Bible is the authoritative and uncompromised Word of God and gives thanks for the wonderful blessings of God in his life. Connect with Mike. Watch Clips About Zimbabwe. Watch The Prophecy Series.  

The majority of pastors suffer from low self-esteem. They wonder if their labors are making any real impact on the congregations they serve. Some of this may be due to allowing people to usurp or even ignore their directives or decisions. It is impossible to lead a church without owning the respect due to every servant of God. If you've lost that, let me help you get it back. During the podcast, I mentioned some resources to help your ministry.  Spiritual Abuse: How To Break Free From Toxic Churches Without Losing Your Faith. Wells For Zimbabwe. Use this link to contribute. Recovery Center Of Greater Waterbury  

Have you ever felt lost in your life, with no hope, no options, no direction, and fear so suffocating you couldn't breathe and wanted to die because it would be easier? Sadly, 40% of Americans are dealing with at least one mental health or drug-related problem which was only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Suicide is a global public health crisis, causing around 800,000 deaths annually along with many more attempts.* Men demonstrate higher suicide rates than women at all times and across regions and ethnic and socioeconomic groups. And young adults, especially young men, are handling the pandemic the hardest. With almost 75% struggling, what is even more alarming is that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say 1 in 4 said men had thought about killing themselves in the past 30 days. Thomas Russo, Jr. has been in their shoes and has risen above multiple challenges to find the solution to finding success in life. Through his book, There Are No Politics In Heaven, motivational speaking, and new upcoming coaching program, Vortex of Excellence™ (available September 2021), Thomas teaches strategies to pull individuals from the darkest depths of their brokenness to find happiness and improve their lives. He is living proof that change is indeed possible. Connect with Tom. Buy There Are No Politics In Heaven. Watch on YouTube.  

When I say the word "gospel," most people think of the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. While true, is that the whole gospel? Are there elements of Christ's teachings we shy away from declaring for fear of how people will respond? Are we unknowingly ashamed of the gospel of Christ? During today's podcast, I invited you to connect with me on YouTube. Would you take a moment to subscribe to my new series, Prophetic or Pathetic?

Today's Interview is with Jeff Orr. Jeff is an expert in leadership, holding two master's degrees in Business and Leadership (MBA, MSL) from Grand Canyon University. He speaks to thousands in the private sector as well as on University campuses about leadership, building a thriving corporate culture, and the critical importance for developing the next generation of leaders. Jeff coaches executives, business owners, and individuals with the tools and skills to lead more effectively, build high-performing teams, and experience true success in their careers and personal lives. His client list includes Google, GE, NBC, Chase, Verizon Wireless, Paypal, Merrill Lynch, Edward Jones, and many others. Jeff's passion for helping leaders grow comes through in his engaging and energizing keynotes using humor and story as a catalyst for professional and personal growth. His most recent TEDx keynote, Millennial Leadership: The Key to Your Organization's Success, has challenged thousands of leaders nationwide to rethink how to engage and develop Millennial leaders in their organizations. His latest book, Inside the Mind of a Millennial Leader, engages Gen-X and Boomer leaders to focus on building into the generation of leaders. Connect with Jeff Get a copy of his newest book.  Watch my newest series, Prophetic or Pathetic on YouTube.  

Can you believe it? This is my 200th podcast. Wow. Where did the time go? During today's podcast, I interview Dr. Bill Senyard. Bill is Dr. Bill Senyard is an experienced pastor, discipler, church revitalization specialist, lecturer, and conference speaker with 25 years as a local church pastor. He is the author of twelve books and two online experiential paths to help people who struggle with identity, relationships, shame, addiction, loneliness, and forgiveness. Connect With Bill @https://gospel-app.com/paths/the-dance Use promo code Toolbox for a special 50% discount. Don't forget to watch the interview on YouTube and SUBSCRIBE!  

Hebrews 11:6 declares that without faith, it is impossible to please God. When we look at our schedules and all the tasks needing attention and completion, how much of what we do is "by faith?" If we are honest, MOST of our labors speak more of maintenance than accomplishing things in partnership with God. A challenging and encouraging discussion awaits on today's podcast. During the podcast, I shared about my friend in Zimbabwe who needs a heart operation.  I also shared about my latest book you can order through Amazon. If you would like to order in bulk at a substantially reduced rate, email me at ministerstoolbox@gmail.com.

In this final part of my two-part interview with Dr. Joe Martin of RealMenConnect.com, we discuss how to discern the difference between a church with problems or a problem church. How does an abuse victim break free from the toxic behaviors that continue to plague them long after leaving such an environment? Join us for an important discussion! Check Out My Book, Spiritual Abuse: How To Break Free From Toxic Churches Without Losing Your Faith. 

People arrive in our churches with a myriad of problems and challenges. One of the worst challenges is wounds from spiritual abuse - the misuse of authority from other church leaders. Today, we turn the tables and interview...ME! Dr. Joe Martin interviews me from his national podcast. Join us for part one! More About Spiritual Abuse book. Can you offer me an honest review? It will only take a second. Review on iTunes. Listen to Dr. Martin's Podcast

Gerard Long is a professor of life and death, having experienced a blessed life, followed by the darkest valley of suffering after the suicide of his beloved youngest son, the near break up of his marriage, and the unbelievable death of his beautiful daughter. As if this wasn’t enough pain, in the same eight-year period, his beloved sister and brother also died, as did a nephew! Rising from the ashes, he faced financial ruin after the betrayal of a ‘friend’ and exceptional medical bills following his cardiac arrest and his beautiful wife’s bladder cancer! Gerard has walked with God through his unbelievable journey and, in Living Hope, he shares the treasures he discovered in the darkness. Watch Gerald and Jeannie's Video. Connect with Awakening To God Ministries. Read Gerald's newest book, Living Hope.

What if you woke up in a hospital bed not knowing why you're there? What if you also had no memory of the church you pastored for several years or of any of your church members? David Carroll was told he had amnesia and that his memories might never return. Join us today for an incredible interview with David and Shannon Carroll as they share their journey and how God transformed their lives. How to get a copy of One Thing Remains. Connect with David & Shannon. Learn more about my new book, Foundations.

Barna reported that up to 50% of certain age populations never intend to return to church once all restrictions are lifted after COVID 19. Why? Many excuses are listed, but none seem to address the underlying issue: Christian foundations. Many leaders have unwittingly taught their people that pulpit ministry is the central reason to gather. Now that the internet has made it possible to watch from the comfort of their homes, tens of thousands of Christians see no reason to go to church! During today's podcast, I discuss a resource to help change your church into a discipling center rather than an online alternative to meeting in person. To purchase your copy of Foundations, go to www.caseysabella.com

On Today's Podcast, I interview Chris Faett who shares his journey from chaos to recovery. This inspiring testimony will encourage you in your work of reaching people who need Christ. Chris and I are working together to build the Recovery Center of Greater Waterbury, a program for substance abusers and an outreach to the homeless community. Connect with the Recovery Center Connect with Recovery Center on Facebook Connect to Minister's Toolbox online.

During this podcast, I shared a personal story from our family that impacts how I do ministry each and every day. What has God called you to do for His Kingdom? One day, we will stand before Him to give an account of how we spent the resources entrusted to us. Are you on track for giving a good report on that day? This podcast from last year was one of our most listened to podcasts and I know it will encourage you to fulfill your ministry. I invite you to Subscribe To My YouTube Channels Podcast - Every podcast in 2021 is also recorded live on YouTube. Subscribe to get notified as soon as it is posted. Books - This is my author page where you can also hear weekly sermons from the church I pastor.

Dr. Joe Martin is an award-winning international speaker, author, educator, and certified “man builder." His life’s story can be summarized in one simple sentence: “He went from rags to riches to ruined to redemption.” Join me for the second half for this powerful testimony to God's goodness in the midst of deep pain. Learn how to reach men for Christ in your community. Investigate the many resources available on his website: Real Men Connect. Watch on YouTube.

Dr. Joe Martin is an award-winning international speaker, author, educator, and certified “man builder." His life’s story can be summarized in one simple sentence: “He went from rags to riches to ruined to redemption.” Join me for this powerful testimony to God's goodness in the midst of deep pain. Learn more about his ministry to men @Realmenconnect.com

When most of us hear the word, "prophet" we think of Old Testament figures like Isaiah or Jeremiah. Anyone considering themselves a prophet today is typically viewed as people with behavioral or mental problems. Paul taught that Christ gave this gift to His Church to equip people to do ministry work. Further, he commented that God's ultimate plans for His people will not come to fruition unless prophets, apostles, pastors, teachers, and evangelists work together as a team. Most pastors want nothing to do with prophets or prophetic ministry due largely to the misuse of this God-initiated ministry. Is that a valid excuse for rejecting the life-changing resource? Today, I complete a three-part series on prophecy, the prophetic, and prophets. Join me!

In this second of a three-part series, we delve more deeply into this mysterious yet biblical gift of prophecy. What is the "life" gift of prophecy, and how does it differ from a gift of the Holy Spirit? How can we know if a person possesses the life gift of prophecy? Why is misunderstanding this gift potentially dangerous to a local church? Some important questions I answer during today's show. Be sure to check out my new author page at caseysabella.com.  

The hot topic in the church these days is prophecy. Some believe it only belongs to the first century. Others use it as a mechanism to make a name for themselves or create a following. Today's podcast is the first of three, speaking about prophecy's biblical gift and proper use. There are three levels of prophecy in the New Testament. Today, we will briefly discuss the first. Join us! Check out my new author's website: www.caseysabella.com

Many churches throughout the western world are dying of old age. The average age of many congregations is fifty and above. How can we reverse the trend? Does it mean filling our churches with new lighting and special music? No, says Ryan Sweat, student ministry pastor from Jackson Beach, Florida. Listen as he shares four ways older churches can attract more young people. (Not as hard as you think!) Get the free download.

You and I carry around a treasure (II Corinthians 4:7). Is this treasure confined to a weekly sermon alone? I have shared about publishing in episode 53. Today, we delve a little deeper into the importance of writing. Here are some free resources that will enable you to publish and market books. Few vocations are more suited for publishing than those who work in ministry. Get Your Free Download! Get my latest book! Check out my new website!

"Feet-First" is a term younger people may not be familiar with. Typically, if someone has been injured or died in a tragedy or as the result of a crime, they are carried out of the building feet-first. Feet-First also means nothing will dissuade you from accomplishing the ministry God has entrusted to you. Have you ever been or ever experienced a moment in life when God asked you to do something impossible? Join me today for a challenging podcast. Download my new book, Foundations.