Creative Disciple Newsletter
June 21, 2026
Don’t Overlook the Calling in Front of You
Most of us have complicated the idea of calling far beyond what Scripture actually teaches. We treat it like a mystery to decode — something impressive, distant, and earned. But Ephesians 2 tells a different story. Calling flows from grace, not pressure, and it often begins to emerge right where you’re already faithfully serving. Read more.
Focused Discipleship
#Personal — Many Christians carry a quiet, unexamined belief that the Father is somehow colder or more distant than Jesus. Dane Ortlund dismantles that assumption with clarity and care, pointing us to the God who multiplies mercies.
#Marriage — Davy and Natalie Lloyd married in 2022 and left for Haiti to serve its children. Two years later, they were martyred for their faith. Tim Challies reviews their biography — a moving account of a short marriage lived with extraordinary courage and devotion to Christ.
#Parenting — Scripture’s image of standing at the gates captures something every father needs to hear. Rob Pacienza traces the pattern from Adam’s silence in Genesis to Paul’s charge in Corinthians, calling men to protect, cultivate, and lead their families with both strength and love.
#Church — Josh Howard arrived on the mission field convinced he was prepared until he realized he had never actually made a disciple. His honest reckoning with that gap, and the humbling years that followed, reveals why your church’s disciple-making culture will never rise above your own personal commitment.
#Work — Reagan Rose is writing his next book on a 1958 Olympia typewriter — by choice. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, his slow, analogue process is producing deeper focus and better writing.
#Pastor — There is a thin but critical line between trusting God’s sovereignty and using it as a quiet excuse for neglect. Scott Smith introduces the concept of locus of control and shows pastors how to hold faith and personal responsibility together.
#AI — Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work, relate, and perceive reality. JD Tyler identifies four ancient Christian practices that keep believers anchored in what is real as the waves of AI continue to rise.
Weekly Wallpaper
Ashamed (Valley of Vision)
Christ endured the shame of the cross so we would never have to be ashamed of His name. Let this wallpaper design remind you that the gospel is not a treasure to hide but a bold confession to carry into every day of your life. Download now.
I’d love to hear from you. Just hit reply to let me know what you thought of this week’s newsletter, share link ideas for future issues, or just say hello!
Also, join my Field Notes email group for monthly updates on what the Lord is doing in my pastoral ministry.
Until next time.
