In 'Ordering Your Private World', Gordon MacDonald addresses the need for individuals, especially those in ministry and leadership roles, to prioritize their inner spiritual lives. He argues that the values of Western culture often lead people to neglect their private, spiritual world in favor of public activity, resulting in burnout and imbalance. The book provides practical advice on how to order one's private world, including setting priorities, managing time effectively, reading edifying literature, and emulating the life of Jesus. MacDonald emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between being 'driven' and being 'called', and encourages practices such as journaling and resting to maintain spiritual health and resilience.
In 'Didn't See It Coming,' Carey Nieuwhof addresses seven core issues that can significantly impact one's life and leadership. He provides clear tools and guidelines for anticipating and avoiding these challenges, as well as steps to overcome them if already encountered. The book covers topics such as cynicism, compromise, disconnectedness, irrelevance, pride, burnout, and the emptiness of success, offering practical solutions, probing questions, and insightful wisdom to help readers grow and achieve their potential.
This week on The Pastorate we are excited to host Carey Nieuwhof—Bestselling author, Host of the Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast, and Founding Pastor of Connexus Church in Barrie, Ontario
Today’s episode covers a wide range of topics:
- Carey discusses his journey of founding and then stepping back from the Lead role at Connexus Church. He reflects on how stepping aside has required humility and an intentional shift from leading to supporting.
- Carey takes the time to walk us through some insights on the shift away from consumer Christianity towards a desire for genuine discipleship and connection as well as a need to reorient our ministry models alongside this cultural shift.
- He opens up about his experience with the potential dangers of pastoring: isolation or confusing church success with personal faith — along with practices like friendship and building a life outside of ministry to help mitigate the danger.
We’re thankful you’ve joined us on The Pastorate today, bless you as you listen.
Bio | Carey Nieuwhof is a bestselling leadership author, speaker, podcaster, and former attorney. He hosts one of today’s most influential leadership podcasts. His podcast, blog, and online content are accessed by leaders over 1.5 million times each month. He speaks to leaders around the world about leadership, change, and personal growth through the Art of Leadership Academy. His work has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, Business Insider, and on EntreLeadership. Carey and his wife, Toni, live north of Toronto, Canada and have two grown sons.
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Show Notes
The Pastorate Podcast 
