A great review of my book Fostering Jesus

http://23259440.hs-sites.com/church-on-a-mission?ecid=&_hsmi=2

here is a nice review that was done of my story and my book.

When risk taking is different

Risk is relational, not just personality-driven.

1. For a servant, a risk feels terrifying.
2. For a son who knows his Father, that same “risk” is trust.

Fostering Jesus

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/transforming-lives-through-foster-care/

my wife and I were able to share encouragement to over 2000 local radio stations that carry the Jim Daily show and talks about the reward of foster care ministry.

We share our story in our book Fostering Jesus and encourage others to do what they can as well.

Www.fosteringJesus.org

Branding Journey

 A Branding Journey:

I am on a journey to brand my ministry across social networks and I have never done this before. 

I am working hard to link everythign up and am committing to upload content from the 23 years of ministry experience I have. 

Pastor Kevin Taylor from Journey Church in Kenosha, Wisconsin once told me years ago when I graduated with a Doctrate in Ministry leadership to now “go use all that knowledge you have aquired and give it away to others” 

He challenged me to not just learn but to apply. So it’s been a few years since he told me that but its time that I start putting that into practice. 

If you are willing to help me - Please subscribe to my youtube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DrRobertGriffith

I have 88 subscribers and need to hit 100 to open new features and allow for a custom url. 

Thanks for your help as I begin building ministry leadership content to help the emerging generations of leaders. 

Thanks!

The Power of Forgiveness

 

The Power of Forgiveness: Setting Others Free, and Yourself Too

Forgiveness is one of the most difficult—and most freeing—commands in Scripture. It’s not natural to let go of hurt. Our human instinct is to hold on, replay the offense, or seek revenge. Yet Jesus calls us to live differently. Forgiveness is not just about releasing others from their debt—it’s about releasing ourselves from the chains of bitterness.

1. Forgiveness Is a Command, Not a Suggestion

Jesus was clear about the central place of forgiveness in the Christian life. When Peter asked how many times he should forgive someone—“up to seven times?”—Jesus answered:

“I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:22)

Forgiveness is not optional; it’s a lifestyle for those who follow Christ.

2. Forgiveness Reflects God’s Heart

We forgive because God first forgave us. Paul reminds us:

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

Every time we extend forgiveness, we mirror the grace we ourselves received at the cross.

3. Forgiveness Brings Healing to Our Hearts

Holding onto unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. Bitterness corrodes the soul. The writer of Hebrews warns us:

“See to it… that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” (Hebrews 12:15)

When we forgive, we free our own hearts from being enslaved by resentment.

4. Forgiveness Is the Path to Reconciliation—But Not Always the Same as Trust

Forgiveness doesn’t always mean forgetting or immediately restoring trust. Boundaries may still be necessary, especially in situations of repeated harm. But forgiveness opens the door for God’s healing work, even if reconciliation takes time. As Paul writes:

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18)

5. Forgiveness Points to the Cross

Ultimately, forgiveness is not about minimizing the wrong done to us—it’s about magnifying the cross of Christ. Jesus prayed from the cross itself:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

If He could forgive in His darkest hour, surely we can lean on His Spirit to forgive those who have wronged us.

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Final Thought

Forgiveness is both an act of obedience and an act of freedom. It heals relationships, softens hearts, and reflects the love of Christ. Who is God calling you to forgive today? Don’t wait until you feel like it—choose forgiveness now, and let God handle the rest.

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13)

Church Growth Tip: Relationship

 Church Growth Tip:

Growth doesn’t start with numbers—it starts with relationships. When people feel genuinely seen, heard, and valued, they don’t just attend church—they belong to it.

✅ Focus on personal connection before programs.
✅ Equip your leaders to know names, not just faces.
✅ Build a culture of hospitality where people encounter Christ through community.

The Bible reminds us:

• “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)

• “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7)

• “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:47)

Healthy relationships create healthy growth—and numbers will follow.

What’s one thing your church does to help people feel connected right away?