by Clarence E. Stowers | Sep 14, 2024 | Empowerment, Christian, Christianity, Decisions, Encouragement, Goals, Motivation, Self-Leadership, Success
“I feel it is better to begin with God, to see His face first, to get my soul near him before it is near another.” E.M. Bounds
If you were to open any dictionary and look up “Godly Woman”, I’m willing to suggest that my mother, Margaret Stowers’ picture would accompany the definition.
Why would I say this? Well, she understood the wisdom of “firsts”, giving God the first of everything – in all areas of life. My mother believed in giving God the first hour of the day, the first day of the week, and the first dime of every dollar.
My Mom Gave God The First Hour of the Day
My mom believed that the bridge to success is better crossed in the morning, the best part of uninterrupted time. This was her time to talk to God through prayer, read and reflect on Scripture, and listen to God’s voice.
That’s right, the wife of a pastor didn’t read the newspaper, talk on the phone, or turn on the television. She would wake up, shower, make coffee, and spend the first hour of her day with God.
Today, my mother is no longer with us, she’s with God. But, even today, one of my clearest memories of her is her morning rhythm. Years later, as I reflect, her example inspires me to form a similar habit and make it a part off my daily rhythm.
If you’re thinking you can just as easily connect with God any time of the day, you’re right, you could. You could connect at noon, in the afternoon, or before you go to bed. But, nothing puts an exclamation point on the day like giving God the first hour of our day.
My Mom Gave God The First Day of the Week
Along with giving God the first hour of her day, my mom also believed in and practiced giving back to God the first day of each week. She went to church! Attending wasn’t optional, it was a priority in the Stowers household. Unfortunately, Sunday is now an extension of the weekend and we can hardly distinguish it from Saturday.
Church attendance is declining and it’s a trend that’s not going away. It’s accelerating. Leadership coach and blogger Carey Neiuwhof writes extensively on church trends and attendance and lists 10 Reasons Even Committed Church Members Are Attending Less. Topping Carey’s list is:
1) Greater Affluence – money gives people options,
2) Higher Focus on Children’s Activities – more kids are playing sports and doing it on Sunday, and
3) Blended Parent Families – when custody is shared in a family situation, ‘perfect’ attendance for a kid or teen might be 26 Sundays a year.
You can read the rest of Carey’s post here.
by Clarence E. Stowers | Sep 14, 2024 | Empowerment, Goals, Mars Hill Baptist Church, Vision
Welcome to Mars Hill Baptist Church, a community that values tradition while embracing modernity.
At Mars Hill, we understand that the church is not just a building, but a community of believers who come together to support and uplift one another. That's why we're excited to introduce the Mars Hill Anywhere Platform - a modern initiative that allows us to connect and grow as a community, no matter where we are.
The Mars Hill Anywhere platform is an online hub where you can access all the resources and support needed to stay engaged and connected with our community. Whether at home, at work, or on the go, you can tune in to our live stream, catch up on past sermons, and participate in virtual events and Bible studies.
But Mars Hill Anywhere is more than just a platform - it reflects our commitment to community and collective growth. We believe the church is not just a place to worship, but to grow and learn together. With Mars Hill Anywhere, we can extend our reach beyond our physical location and connect with believers from all over the world.
At Mars Hill Baptist Church, we're excited about the future and the opportunities that Mars Hill Anywhere presents. We believe that by embracing modern technology, we can reach more people and make a bigger impact on the world. So why not join us today and see what Mars Hill Anywhere can do for you?
At Mars Hill, we understand that the church is not just a building, but a community of believers who come together to support and uplift one another.
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Mars Hill Anywhere Platform: Bringing the Church to You
What is the Mars Hill Anywhere Platform?
The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform is not just another online tool; it's a revolutionary step towards redefining what it means to be a church in the modern age. Recognizing that the essence of a church is its community and not the walls that house it, we've developed a platform that bridges the gap between physical distance and spiritual connection.
Key Features:
- Virtual Gatherings: Attend services, bible studies, and group meetings from the comfort of your home or anywhere in the world. Experience the same warmth and fellowship as you would in person.
- Interactive Worship: Engage in live worship sessions, submit prayer requests, and participate in communal activities, ensuring that you're not just a passive viewer but an active member of the congregation.
- Community Building Tools: Connect with fellow believers, join discussion groups, and find local meet-ups or events. Create and nurture relationships that go beyond Sunday services.
- Resource Library: Access a vast collection of sermons, teachings, and other resources to deepen your faith and understanding, available 24/7.
- Personalized Experience: Tailor your platform experience based on your interests, needs, and spiritual journey. Receive content recommendations, join groups that resonate with you, and grow at your own pace.
Why Choose the Mars Hill Anywhere Platform?
- Flexibility: Whether traveling, unwell, or simply preferring to engage from home, the platform ensures you're always connected to your church community.
- Inclusivity: No matter where you are in your faith journey, there's a place for you here. From newcomers to long-time members, everyone is welcome.
- Safety: When physical gatherings might be challenging or risky, the platform offers a safe and secure way to stay connected.
- Growth: With many resources and community support, your spiritual growth is limitless.
Join Us in this New Chapter
At Mars Hill, we believe that faith is a journey best traveled together. The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform is our commitment to ensuring that no matter where life takes you, your church family is just a click away. Join us, and let's redefine what being a church in the digital age means.
The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform is not just another online tool; it's a revolutionary step towards redefining what it means to be a church in the modern age.
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The Mars Hill Anywhere Platform: A Comprehensive Overview
At Mars Hill, we believe in creating a holistic ecosystem that caters to the diverse needs of our community. The Mars Hill Anywhere initiative is not just a platform; it's a comprehensive suite of tools, services, and experiences designed to nurture your faith, growth, and leadership. Here's a breakdown of what's involved:
- In-Person Gatherings: While our digital tools are expansive, nothing can replace the warmth of face-to-face interactions. Our in-person gatherings are spaces for worship, fellowship, and growth, allowing you to connect with the Mars Hill community in a tangible way.
- Live Streaming Across Platforms: Whether you're on our official website at [marshillchicago.org](http://marshillchicago.org), YouTube, or Facebook Live, you can access our services in real-time. Experience the power of collective worship, no matter where you are.
- The Gathering - Digital Discipleship: Our midweek service, The Gathering, is more than just another online meeting. It's a dedicated space for digital discipleship, designed to help you deepen your relationship with God from wherever you are.
- 1:1 Coaching: Life is a journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Our 1:1 coaching sessions are tailored to help you reach your personal goals and continuously improve, even if just by 1%.
- Stay Informed with Text Alerts: Never miss out on what's happening at Mars Hill. Our text alerts keep you in the loop about events, updates, and important announcements.
- The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast: Leadership is often a lonely journey, but it doesn't have to be. The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast shines a light on the often-overlooked leaders, offering insights, stories, and inspiration for everyone.
- The Breakdown - Weekly Insights: Understanding God's word is a journey, and we're here to guide you. The Breakdown is a weekly newsletter that delves into Sunday's sermon, providing clarity and a 5-day devotional to help you reflect and grow throughout the week.
Embracing the Future, Together
The Mars Hill Anywhere ecosystem is our commitment to ensuring that every community member has the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in their faith journey. Whether you're joining us online or in person, we're here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
The Mars Hill Anywhere initiative is not just a platform; it's a comprehensive suite of tools, services, and experiences designed to nurture your faith, growth, and leadership.
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The Importance of a Subscription Model for Sustaining Mars Hill Anywhere
The landscape of church operations and community engagement has undergone significant transformation, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. While the essence of the church remains unchanged, the methods by which we connect, worship, and sustain our operations have evolved. As we navigate these changes, it's crucial to explore innovative financial models that can support the growth and sustainability of Mars Hill Anywhere. Here's why introducing a subscription model as an additional way to give is vital:
- Predictable Revenue Stream: Traditional tithes and offerings, while deeply appreciated, can be unpredictable. A subscription model provides a consistent and predictable revenue stream, enabling better financial planning and ensuring the church's digital and physical operations run smoothly.
- Expanding Digital Infrastructure: The hybrid model of Mars Hill Anywhere requires significant investment in digital infrastructure, from live streaming equipment to online platforms and tools. A subscription model can help offset these costs and ensure our digital offerings remain top-notch.
- Supporting Expanded Services: With initiatives like 1:1 coaching, The Gathering, and The Clarence Stowers Leadership Podcast, Mars Hill offers more than just Sunday services. A subscription model can help fund these additional services, ensuring they remain accessible and high-quality.
- Building Resilience: Post-COVID, many churches face financial challenges. Diversifying our revenue sources through subscriptions can make Mars Hill more resilient to external economic shocks and ensure we can continue our mission regardless of external circumstances.
- Deepening Community Engagement: A subscription model can foster a sense of ownership and more profound engagement within the community. Subscribers might feel a heightened sense of commitment and involvement, knowing they're directly sustaining the church's initiatives.
- Flexibility for Members: While tithing is a deeply personal act of worship, a subscription model offers an alternative for those who prefer a more structured way of giving. It allows members to choose the best method with their financial planning and personal preferences.
A Forward-Thinking Approach
Introducing a subscription model is not about replacing traditional tithes and offerings but complementing them. It's a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the evolving needs of our community and the changing dynamics of church operations in the digital age. By embracing this model, we're ensuring the sustainability of Mars Hill Anywhere and paving the way for continued growth, innovation, and deepened community engagement.
Introducing a subscription model is not about replacing traditional tithes and offerings but complementing them.
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Join Us in Shaping the Future of Mars Hill Anywhere
At the heart of Mars Hill lies a community bound by faith, love, and a shared vision. As we navigate the evolving landscape of worship and fellowship, your support becomes the cornerstone of our growth and outreach.
- Tithes & Offerings: Your regular tithes and offerings are more than just financial contributions; they're acts of worship, trust, and commitment to our shared mission. Each penny fuels our endeavors, ensuring that the Word reaches every corner and every heart.
- Special Offerings: Occasionally, we embark on projects that require a little extra – a community outreach, a mission trip, or infrastructural enhancements. Your unique offerings can make these dreams a reality, creating lasting impact and memories.
- Becoming a Subscriber: Dive deeper into the Mars Hill experience by becoming a subscriber. Not only do you gain access to exclusive content and benefits, but you also play a pivotal role in ensuring our church's sustainability in the digital age: every gesture, big or small, stitches together the fabric of our community. Whether giving through tithes, unique offerings, or subscribing, you champion a vision of unity, growth, and boundless faith.
Support Mars Hill Anywhere today as a beacon of hope, love, and transformation.
by Clarence E. Stowers | Mar 6, 2024 | Communication, Current Affairs, Decisions, Empowerment
In the early 2000s, the board of directors forced Steve Jobs, Apple's co-founder, out of the company. Jobs had been a critical figure in the company's success, having overseen the development of iconic products such as the Macintosh, the iPod, and the iPhone. However, he clashed with the board over his management style and the company's direction, leading to his ousting.
Following his departure from Apple, Jobs embarked on personal reflection and soul-searching. He realized that his mistake could have been relying more heavily on someone else's platform, which had resulted in his being removed from Apple. As a result, he decided to create his own platform, Pixar, a company that would allow him to showcase his unique vision for the future of entertainment.
Pixar initially started as a computer hardware company, but they quickly shifted their focus to developing animation software. Steve Jobs, the founder, recognized the potential of animation to transform the movie industry and went all-in to ensure Pixar's success.
In 1995, the company released its first feature film, Toy Story, a massive commercial and critical hit. Pixar continued producing blockbuster films, such as A Bug's Life, Monsters Inc., and Finding Nemo. I will revisit this story later in the article.
The Great Facebook Outage Lesson
This week's brief outage of Facebook and Instagram served as a jarring wake-up call: the rented digital platforms we've come to rely on for our businesses and online presence are ultimately not under our control. While undeniably convenient, they can go dark at any moment, leaving us high and dry, scrambling to reconnect with our audiences and customers.
The lesson is as clear as a desert mirage: we must dig our own wells before the thirst sets in. By building a robust, self-sufficient platform that we truly own and govern, we insulate ourselves from the whims and failures of third-party rentiers.
This self-made oasis should comprise several key elements:
- A Website You Fully Own: No more renting digital real estate. Your website is your sovereign territory on the internet, where you make the rules and set the terms of engagement. It's your impenetrable home base, unshakeable by external forces.
- An Email List Under Your Control: With your email list, you own the direct line of communication with your tribe. There are no algorithms, no intermediaries—just an unbroken pipeline to the inboxes of those who matter most. This connection can never be blocked or disrupted.
- An Instantaneous Text Alerting System: In today's age of fracturing attention, reach your people immediately through the communication channel they're guaranteed to see. With your owned SMS systems, you're never accountable to someone else's pipes.
- Internal Team Collaboration Channels: Keep your crew connected, aligned, and productive through digital spaces you control and manage. Efficient teamwork and flawless execution are vital competitive advantages.
- Streamlined Opt-In and Follow-Up Processes: Effortlessly guide new leads into your world on your own terms. With automated systems under your watchful eye, every prospect can stay caught up when the rented streams run dry.
By piecing together the different pillars of your self-governed platform, you can avoid being a "digital sharecropper" and subject to your landlords' whims. If the domains you rent fail, you can easily switch to your fully owned domain and continue serving your audience without problems. Let's return to Steve Jobs' story to see how he applied this lesson years later when he returned to Apple.
He transformed Apple into a self-governed empire by creating iTunes, the Online Store, and an ironclad ecosystem, resulting in a self-sustaining oasis that was unshakable by external forces.
The moral of Jobs' story is that true visionaries should build their empire on self-reliance and control their destiny by digging their own wells. Don't rent land to build your empire, as it can vanish overnight. Cultivate self-reliance by owning your platform.
Never be caught up with resources when you need them the most. Instead, take the initiative to cultivate a strong foundation that will provide you with the necessary tools to secure your future success. By doing so, you can ensure that your business or audience will continue to grow and thrive.
Remember that self-reliance is crucial in achieving this goal, as it will help you become more resilient in the face of any challenges.
If you are ready to take the initiative towards securing your future success, start cultivating a strong foundation today. Don't wait until you are caught up with resources when you need them the most.
Remember, self-reliance is key to becoming more resilient and achieving your goals. So, take action now and invest in yourself to ensure that your business or audience continues to grow and thrive!
by Clarence E. Stowers | Jan 10, 2024 | Communication, Decisions, Empowerment, Motivation
In the 2000 British Open, Tiger Woods, renowned for his exceptional golf skills, faced the historic course of St. Andrews. As he stood at the first tee, the importance of his initial shot in setting the tone for the entire tournament was palpable.
With remarkable focus, Woods chose a straight path, avoiding the notorious bunkers and roughs that symbolized life's challenges and missteps. This deliberate and skillful choice was more than just a strategic play in the game; it was a profound lesson in life.
Tiger's decision to aim true and clear of the hazards echoed the vital principle of beginning with intent and precision. His triumph in that tournament, characterized by his initial direction and unwavering focus, beautifully illustrates that in life, much like in golf, how we start can significantly impact our journey.
Tiger Woods' masterful start at St. Andrews, steering clear of obstacles and focusing on his goal, mirrors the essence of our own paths in life, setting a perfect segue into our exploration of how the principles of golf can enlighten our approach to personal growth and success, as we delve into the deeper aspects of rebuilding and resilience in our lives.
The Direction You Choose Determines The Destination You Reach.
Just like in golf, the way you begin affects everything that follows. Rebuilding isn't just about creating something new; it's about correcting past mistakes. The first step isn't just a move; it's a mindset. A good start in rebuilding sets the tone for success, just like a good tee shot in golf. Whether it's life, relationships, or faith, how you start makes a huge difference.
Truth is The Foundation of all Rebuilding.
The Stockdale Paradox
The Stockdale Paradox is the mindset of holding two seemingly contradictory beliefs simultaneously: maintaining unwavering faith in the ultimate triumph and success while facing the brutal realities of the current situation.
It was named after Admiral James Stockdale, who was a prisoner of war in Vietnam for 7 years. He emphasized the importance of confronting the harsh truth and being determined to overcome challenges, all while maintaining hope and faith in a positive outcome. The Stockdale Paradox highlights the need for resilience, adaptability, and a balanced perspective under challenging circumstances.
Connection Fuels Compassion and Compels Action.
Identifying with the need means feeling the weight of what's broken and owning it. It's not just about understanding the problem intellectually but feeling it emotionally. When you identify with the need, it becomes personal, and the motivation to act becomes stronger. This step moves you from detached observation to passionate participation.
Taking Ownership is The Birthplace of Change.
Taking responsibility means moving from "someone should fix this" to "I will do something about this." It's about shifting from blame to ownership, from excuses to action. Personal responsibility is empowering—it's recognizing that you have a role to play in the rebuilding process. This step is about commitment, deciding that you will be part of the solution.
Be Patient - Rebuilding is a Journey, Not a Sprint.
Just like in golf, you won't hit a hole-in-one every time. There will be setbacks and challenges. Embrace each step, knowing that every effort contributes to the final goal. Celebrate small victories along the way. They are signs of progress. Patience doesn't mean inactivity; it means persistent, consistent action toward the goal.
Rebuilding is not Just for You; It's For All Who Will Come After You.
Your efforts to rebuild aren't just about improving your own situation; they're about leaving a legacy. When you rebuild something in your life, you're setting an example for others to follow. Your courage to start right, evaluate honestly, take responsibility, and step out of your comfort zone inspires others to do the same. The walls you rebuild today will become the shelter for others tomorrow. Your journey of rebuilding is a testimony of hope and resilience that will encourage many.
In conclusion, just as Tiger Woods demonstrated at St. Andrews, the initial direction we choose in life, like a well-aimed golf shot, sets the trajectory for our journey. The lessons from the golf course are profoundly applicable to our personal and professional lives. It's about avoiding the 'woods' of distractions, focusing on our goals, and understanding that the path to success is a mindful blend of strategy, patience, and perseverance.
As we embrace these principles, we not only rebuild what's been lost but also forge a legacy that inspires and guides others. This journey of rebuilding and growth is not just for our benefit but for all who follow, creating a ripple effect of positive change and enduring resilience.
Let's carry forward this mindset of careful beginnings and steadfast focus, remembering that every shot in life, just like in golf, counts towards shaping our ultimate destiny.
Today's post was inspired by my recent sermon "How You Start Makes a Difference." I emphasized how the initial steps we take to rebuild areas of our lives significantly influence the trajectory and outcome of our personal growth journey.
If you missed the sermon, you can watch a replay on the church's YouTube channel. During this message I share more insights about making an honest assessment, taking responsibility, getting uncomfortable, community support, and ultimately using your story to help others. Check it out for more motivation on starting your transformation journey.
by Clarence E. Stowers | Dec 27, 2023 | Communication, Decisions, Empowerment, Goals, Leadership
In Atlanta, in the present day, Marcus and Tanya, a professional couple, found themselves at a crossroads. They had to decide whether to leave their stable jobs and pursue a venture they were genuinely passionate about. At this moment, they experienced a mixture of uncertainty and excitement for the possibilities ahead.
They spent long nights discussing, planning, and sometimes doubting. This period of contemplation was their stable in Bethlehem, a seemingly ordinary moment that held the promise of a transformative future.
As they decided to leap, they embraced the unknown with faith and hope that this was the path meant for them.
From Marcus and Tanya’s journey, we learn that, much like Mary and Joseph, our most significant leaps forward often come after periods of quiet reflection and anticipation.
Their leap into the unknown is a testament to the most profound changes in our lives, often beginning with a pause, a moment of quiet determination before the promise of a new and transformative path unfolds.
Waiting with Active Anticipation
Have you ever found yourself in a period of waiting? I know I have. It’s a time of uncertainty and anticipation for something significant to happen. And let me tell you, it can be quite a challenging season filled with doubts and questions. But what if I told you that waiting is not a passive state but an active opportunity for preparation and expectation? Let me share the powerful insights I recently gained from my sermon on this topic.
The Pause Before the Promise
During my sermon last Sunday, I discussed the significance of pausing before making a promise. I drew connections between the Bible's stories of Marcus and Tanya and Mary and Joseph.
Like the latter couple, Mary and Joseph experienced moments of doubt and uncertainty but also found solace in periods of quiet reflection and anticipation. This led me to the realization that significant breakthroughs frequently occur after moments of silence and contemplation.
So, what does that mean for us?
The waiting period should not be seen as a delay but as a time of preparation. During these moments of silence, we can find strength for the next step. Just like the grandmother I mentioned in my message who could smell the rain before it arrived (anticipation), the promises of God may not always appear or feel obvious, but they will be fulfilled in due time. We need to hold onto that hope and trust in God’s timing.
The Breakdown Before the Breakthrough
Another important lesson from the sermon is that before experiencing a breakthrough, there is often a breakdown.
I highlighted the story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, where they encountered numerous challenges and setbacks. It would have been easy for them to give up or take matters into their own hands, but they persevered through the breakdown.
I can relate to this on a personal level. In my own life, I have encountered insurmountable breakdowns and difficulties. These moments led to frustration, doubt, and sometimes even anger towards God.
However, I encourage everyone to shift their perspective and see these breakdowns as opportunities for growth. Through the process of being broken down, our faith is refined, and we learn to rely on God’s strength rather than our own.
When brought to a place of brokenness, we can genuinely appreciate the breakthrough that comes from God’s hands. In times of struggle, we develop a deeper understanding of God’s faithfulness and learn to praise Him in all circumstances. It’s a humbling but necessary journey.
God’s Perfect Timing
Reflecting on last Sunday’s message, I am reminded that God’s timing is perfect, even when it feels painfully slow.
There was a 400-year period of silence between the last book of the Old Testament and the birth of Jesus. People may have given up hope during that time, but God was working behind the scenes, preparing for the perfect moment to send His Son into the world.
Reflecting on my life, I realize how often I desire immediate results and become impatient when my prayers seem unanswered. However, I must trust the clockmaker, who sits above time and sees the bigger picture. God knows the perfect timing for each of His promises in my life. It’s a reminder to surrender control and have faith in His plans.
Wait Actively, Not Passively
I have concluded that waiting is not a passive state. We are called to engage actively in our waiting period. Instead of complaining or becoming bitter, we should use this time to prepare ourselves and expect what God will do.
I took this message to heart. While waiting, I have committed to sharpening my skills, deepening my faith, fortifying my spirit, and praying new prayers. Waiting has become an opportunity for personal growth and development. Rather than being idle, I actively engage and prepare myself for the breakthrough that is coming.
I recognize that patience isn’t just about waiting; it’s also about maintaining the right attitude. Complaining and becoming bitter will not bring about the desired outcome. Instead, I strive to maintain a positive mindset and trust that God’s plans are excellent and perfect.
Conclusion
As I navigate through seasons of waiting, I am learning to embrace the pause before the promise. I am reminded that breakdowns are a natural part of the journey toward breakthroughs, and they serve to deepen my faith and reliance on God. Moreover, I hold onto the truth that God’s timing is perfect, and my waiting is not in vain.
Waiting with active anticipation means persevering, maintaining the right attitude, and trusting God’s faithfulness. It is an opportunity for personal growth, deepening faith, and preparation for the blessings yet to come. So, let us embrace the waiting periods in our lives and actively engage in the process, knowing that God is faithful and His promises will surely come to pass.
If you want to watch “The Pause Before The Promise” in its entirety, you can watch it here.
