Poitras Ponderings

Horace, the Roman poet, in 23 BC said, “carpe diem quam minimum credula postera.” We commonly hear the shorter version “Carpe diem” or“seize the day.” However, it can be more accurately translated as “pluck the day, put no trust in the future.”

After a brief holiday sabbatical Poitras Ponderings returns. Faith and faithfulness are things we desire deeply to attain. "What is the evidence of faith?" That's the question posed and pondered in this episode.

I'm often reading! This episode provides four book recommendations to consider if you are planning to buy a book for a friend or for yourself this Christmas.

The Thanksgiving edition. It's not just one day of the year. It's a lifestyle of Thanks-living.

This episode looks at the third indispensable ability to look for in ministry (leaders, missionaries, and team members). Flexibility is perpetually needed.

“There is a noticeable common thread in most successful people—they are teachable. And correspondingly the opposite is true—the unteachable are stunted, ineffective or lack measurable success” (Kathy Ferguson Litton, “Teachability: An absolute necessity for effective leadership”).  A global representative recently said, "Teachability trumps talent!" I've designed and developed a teachability quotient exercise for you. Please take it by following the hyperlink below. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSflVQWUX6D2iqTPncpf99WUcgK8ljYg6sTMA5NOsft7uwvdmg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link (Teachability) https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSflVQWUX6D2iqTPncpf99WUcgK8ljYg6sTMA5NOsft7uwvdmg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&usp=mail_form_link (Quotient ) If for some reason the shortened hyperlink doesn't work then: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSflVQWUX6D2iqTPncpf99WUcgK8ljYg6sTMA5NOsft7uwvdmg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0 (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSflVQWUX6D2iqTPncpf99WUcgK8ljYg6sTMA5NOsft7uwvdmg/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0)

Perseverance is persistence in doing something despite difficulty. Constancy is the quality of being faithful and dependable. Anthony Mangun said, “A good leader begins with an unwavering belief in what he is doing and refuses to quit, pressing on in spite of setbacks and roadblocks. Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish. In a race, it doesn't matter who starts, but who finishes. Those who persist, prevail.

A closer look at Psalms 46:1.

This podcast episode takes a second look at the concept of "zones." Previously we looked at Sharon Britton's Blue Zone (to strive for) and the Red Zone (to stay away from). Carey Nieuwhof in his new book At Your Best: How to Get Time, Energy, & Priorities in Your Favor writes about the Green Zone, Yellow Zone, and the Red Zone. Find out about these zones by listening to a very brief look at each in this episode and pick up the book for further details.

The Apostle Paul in Acts 20:24 gives us three phrases for our daily climb. My Life. My Course. My Ministry.

In this episode, Jim is joined by his wife, Linda, to discuss the meaning behind Labor Day, and missionary experiences with children's ministry in Africa.

Are you living in the blue zone or the red zone? Find out in this episode.

Quotations are powerful! They coach. They get points across quickly. They illustrate meaning or support an argument. They inspire. They encourage. A good quote speaks to us!

What does the obscure story of Mephibosheth tell us about ourselves? How do we progress from Nothingville to the King's table?

This episode highlights Soundtracks, a book by New York Times Best-selling author Jon Acuff. It compares it with a few Scriptures on "thinking." Is it true? Is it kind? Is it helpful?

General William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, close to the end of his life, unable to attend their annual conference, sent a one-word message to thousands of gathered delegates. Just six letters unveiled their very foundation, the reason for existence, and part of their DNA.

We often think of the open door as being an opportunity to reach into a continent, country, city, or community. But, an open door could also be a single heart.

"Life hacks" is a newer phrase for "household helpful hints." In this episode, Jim Poitras shares ten quick life hacks, from her personal experiences, on how leaders should be treated.

We live in a society that desires instant results, instant gratification, that wants and gets immediate results, and quick service. When it comes to communication through teaching, speaking, writing, and preaching I prefer my Mental Crockpot. Take time, toss in new materials, collect various ingredients, figure out what not to toss in the pot, learn how to integrate, increase creativity, and so much more included in this brief podcast episode.

To "seek" means to go after something, forsaking all others, and to pursue. In life, what are you seeking? Who are you seeking? The Faith Chapter tells us "He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6). What are you earnestly, energetically, persistently seeking? Seek His face and not just His hand in your life.

We've just had our Father's Day weekend. The best Dad of all is our Heavenly Father. He's absolutely able to do anything!

Ever feel like you miss the mark with the test of trust? In this episode Jim is joined by his wife, Linda, to discuss the topic. God allows "tests" to bring out the best in us. The adversary sends "temptations" in an attempt to bring out the worst in us. "Trust" is a basic Christian principle or attribute, but one that seems difficult to develop.

God counts on believers to do three things. He trusts you. Check it out in this podcast episode.

God loves it when He can trust us to be part of the Big Picture of what He is doing. Step up to an adventure of a lifetime. We are workers together with God.

We love it when God does great things for us like answering our prayers. But, God loves it when He can factor us into the picture and equation.

The remaining reasons why I became a minister.

It's always good to assess why you became a minister, in the pulpit, and in the pew!

Project and plan leading up to an event. Reflect and evaluate after an event. Check your gauges!

Swat the mosquito! Kill the snake. Eat the frog

We all have at least three categories of experiences in life. There are things we store away. Others we give away. And, unfortunately, still others we need to throw away.

Listen to the story of Peter at Easter!

Tips on the power of unity and caution against "Body" bashing.

A year ago was our final week of normal. We've learned many things through the past year. We certainly got much better at Zoom meetings, online streaming, and wearing masks. This episode reveals a little tip on decision-making gained through experience.

This episode looks at the differences between a calling, passion, and position.

Sometimes we suffer from identity in crisis. We have a quest for identity. To be identified for what we do and who we are. We want to be remembered. Step in from offstage: Simon of Cyrene. Noted in three of the four Gospels. No matter which account you read they basically say the same thing. But don’t mention all that much, really. Why mention him at all? Maybe to teach a little about remaining anonymous. He isn’t special. He does what others could have done. He’s mentioned performing the type of task most of us wouldn’t remember. “Many of us spend too much time trying to be unforgettable or do something remarkable. We feel resentment creeping into our gut when our efforts go unnoticed" (Sean Palmer).

Life is too uncertain, the battle too strong, and situations too stormy, to journey through it without an encourager or two or more! This podcast episode looks at the biblical character of Barnabas and the host's personal experience and the recent loss of two amazing encouragers in his life, and the lives of others, Sister Ella Rhoads, and Sister Evangeline Rodenbush. Both of these precious ladies leave behind so many memories and a godly example worthy of emulation. Sister Evangeline Rodenbush's celebration of life is happening the same day as the release of this podcast episode. She loved limitlessly, cared courageously, prayed perpetually, defended definitely, mentored meticulously, encouraged extravagantly, believed best, and was a forever friend, first-class! Let us faithfully follow her extraordinary example!

Thomas was referred to as Didymus or called "the twin." He is considered skeptical and has been nicknamed Doubting Thomas. Yet, he wasn't the only one to ever doubt Jesus or His resurrection. His name only appears eight times in Scripture and four of those only in lists. Out of great doubt concerning the resurrection came great revelation. Could we be considered a twin to Thomas in our viewpoint and perspective? Probably so, but also remember that Thomas was committed, courageous, loyal, passionate, and chosen.

Does it take an audio voice, a lightning bolt, or a crash of thunder to hear the voice of God? Are we deaf by choice? Scriptures on the Roman Road will lead you into global evangelism.

Father (thankful for who He is) Faith Family Friends (including those I mentor) Fellowship (my church, close churches, our pastoral family) Food (Provision, the Word of God) Flow (of the Spirit) Fruit of the Spirit/Gifts of the Spirit Future (events coming up) Fight (Spiritual Warfare, Whole Armor of God)

Got a vision, plan, proposal, what next? How do you move things from your head, lips, hands to approval by your leadership and acceptance by others? Poitras provides ten possibilities or pointers.

We flip the script this week as our guest, Dan MacLeod, shares nuggets of wisdom and guidelines on hearing the Voice of God. He identifies the principle of spiritual patterns provided in God's Word. There is a pattern that God uses to speak to us. Complexities of ministry require us to be able, with clarity, to discern the voice of God at times of great distraction.

This is the last installment for the next while in the "I Have a Story Series." We often get fearful of witnessing, feeling we are responsible for conversions. That is God's work. Count conversations, not conversions. Give your voice over as an active witness of the Lord's goodness in your life. Water it with prayer. Leave the results to God!

The first episode of the year!

The Innkeeper in the Christmas story often gets a bad rap. But, that shouldn't be the case. He gave the best he had to give. Jesus never requires more of us than we are able to give!

Here is the remainder of the great books mentioned by the host. Living out of the Overflow (Richard Blackaby) Together is Better (Simon Sinek) Good to Great in God's Eyes (Chip Ingram) 10 Power Principles for Christian Service (Warren Wiersbe) The Bumps are what You Climb On (Warren Wiersbe)

You've heard it said, "Leaders are readers." In this episode the host tells of his top five books recommended this season. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (Barbara Robinson) Shofar Blew (Francine Rivers) Tale of Three Kings (Gene Edwards) Preaching with Freshness (Bruce Mawhinney) The Mind of a Missionary (David Joannes)

Host Jim Poitras started 2020 believing it would be the best year ever. Guess what? It was! Each day we wake knowing this is the day the Lord has made. Days turn into weeks. Weeks into months. a Year is an accumulation of the individual days the Lord has made. Not all are good. Not all are bad. But, mixed together we are able to count our many blessings and be content. "Content" and "contentment" are keys words in this podcast episode.

Two hurricanes right on top of each other swept through Central America leaving unbelievable damage. CSi has been working to assist the Philippines after the typhoons there. Now they are attempting to rally support for Central America and have already given some funds. Mike explains how creatives can become helpful in missions and talks to us about unorthodox trails. One can give through http://www.compassionservices.org/ There you can give to Central America or to the Philippines. If interested in specifically giving to Guatemala: Giving can be done via Global Cause: http://igfn.us/vf/Thompson?fbclid=IwAR0w1W9IkQWOgU6WhxXEegC21TG1u-VUi3ZRHSKW0WlI3rfnm5PlhuuUXbU (http://igfn.us/vf/Thompson) Use the Donation: Miscellaneous This account is set aside for Disaster Relief

This week Linda reads for us "Information Please." This is an impacting, heartwarming story from Chicken Soup for the Soul. A small act of kindness, or a short word of encouragement, could very well impact a life for a lifetime. Like is said,, "to the world you may be one person but to one person you may very well be the world."

Sometimes a sermon and its illustrations crawl through an open window to your heart and takes up residence in your soul. It becomes the sermon you never forget.

I have this theory. All sermons work together, the good ones and the not so good ones, to craft me into who I am and direct me to who I ought to be.