Ministry Rhythms

Bob Bickford
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Stories + Encouragement + Equipping for Pastors from Pastors and ministry Practitioners pursuing the mission of Jesus in the local church

  1. 10/08/2025

    EP 14 The Unhurried Pastor w/ Brian Croft

    We're back at it (finally) and sat down with President and Founder of Practical Shepherding, Brian Croft to talk about his book; The Unhurried Pastor. If you're a pastor that's feeling fatigued, frustrated and that there has to be a better way to fulfill your calling give this EP a listen. If you missed the network gathering we'd love to make a copy of Brian's book available to you, email us at the Association and we'll make sure you get a copy.  Are you looking for more training and encouragement? Consider joining the Practically Trained Pastors Cohort which is accepting applications now. We're here to serve you Pastor and Ministry Leader - don't hesitate to reach out.

    21 min

  2. 07/02/2025

    EP 13 Church Renewal - Biblical Target and Means

    In this episode of the Ministry Rhythms Podcast, the team welcomes new Church Renewal Strategist Nick Lingle to unpack what true church renewal looks like—moving beyond strategy and structure to rekindle a deep, spiritual love for Jesus at the heart of congregational life. With insights from Andy Davis and practical reflections, the conversation centers on restoring spiritual health through biblical means. Resources Mentioned: Revitalize by Andy Davis Gospel Way Catechism – Thomas West & Trevin Wax Falling in Love with Jesus – David Jackson (Free via NAMB)   Remember to like, subscribe, leave a comment or drop us a line.      Episode Timeline & Key Moments: [00:00 – 01:00] Welcome & Updates Hosts return after a hiatus Introduction of new staff: Nick Lingle, Church Renewal Strategist (Westwood Pastor, started June 1) [01:00 – 02:00] Why Church Renewal Matters 80% of SBC churches (including 151 locally) need some degree of renewal Renewal can be slight or extensive [02:00 – 03:30] Defining Church Renewal Andy Davis' Definition: “The effort to restore by biblical means, a once healthy church from a present level of disease to a state of spiritual health as defined by the Word of God.” Focus: Both means (biblical methods) and target (spiritual health) [03:30 – 05:00] Renewal vs. Church Planting Difference between building from scratch and restoring something broken Renewal requires reintroducing Scripture-based methods into stalled structures [05:00 – 07:30] The Heart of the Church Warning signs of needing renewal: Activity without love (Revelation letters, especially Ephesus) Doctrinal correctness but relational coldness Key question: "Has your love for God grown?" [07:30 – 09:30] Role of Worship & Affections Worship gatherings should magnify the risen Christ It’s not just about saying “good sermon,” but being moved by Jesus Leaders must evaluate and nurture affections, not just actions [09:30 – 12:00] Discipleship & Love for Jesus Renewal is hindered by deficient discipleship Resources mentioned: Gospel Way Catechism by Thomas West & Trevin Wax Rhythms: Worship, Scripture, daily spiritual discipline It's not about Sunday alone, but continual spiritual rhythms [12:00 – 14:30] What Crowds Out Spiritual Renewal Concerns like finances, facilities, and survival often take center stage Renewal must begin with spiritual vitality, not just strategic change [14:30 – 16:30] The Pastor’s Heart Healthy churches begin with healthy pastors Leaders must maintain their own vibrant walk with Christ Organizational skill ≠ Spiritual leadership [16:30 – 18:30] Being With Jesus Phrase from Tim Wheat (NAMB): “Be with Jesus” Pastors must be spiritually present—not just programmatically active Prioritizing time with Christ fuels authentic ministry [18:30 – 20:30] Lessons from a Child Nick shares a conversation with his 8-year-old daughter: “I love Jesus, I think about him, and I want to please him.” A simple model for personal spiritual health [20:30 – 22:00] Final Thoughts & Resources Books mentioned: Revitalize by Andy Davis Falling in Love with Jesus by David Jackson (NAMB – free resource) Structural changes are helpful but secondary True renewal is spiritual—it begins with the heart

    23 min

  3. 04/23/2025

    EP12 Dealing with Discouragement w/special Guest Frank Lewis

    Hey listeners! We're back with another great EP - this week Pastor Frank Lewis shares practical encouragement to pastors facing discouragement in ministry. If you're struggling in ministry don't hesitate to reach out for help, from a friend, fellow Pastor and to our Association. We have resources and assistance available for you and your family.  In this EP the following are mentioned: The importance of rest A great eating plan Ministry Friends Spiritual Disciplines  The power of prayer, God's word and hymns Remember to leave us feedback and share with your friends.

    28 min

  4. 04/17/2025

    EP 11 DISCOURAGEMENT AND DEPRESSION - PRACTICAL HELPS

    In this EP they guys pick back up on their convo about discouragement and depression and turn toward exploring practical helps available to Pastors and ministry leaders.  Friends, exercise, good food, intentional conversations and medication. God can use any or all to bring remedy to those enduring heavy seasons. Mentioned in the Podcast Spurgeon’s Sorrows by Zach Eswine NBA (Nashville Area) Pastor Cohorts Pastor’s Help Line Depression, Trauma and Medication  Depression Medication   If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, your leaders or for resources, we’re here to help.

    21 min

  5. 04/08/2025

    EP 10 DISCOURAGEMENT AND DEPRESSION

    The guys are back after a couple of week hiatus. This week's topic is a heavy one, but we talk about the substance in an encouraging way.  Depression and Discouragement are realities that every ministry leader will face at some point in their lives. Discouragement: the temporary emotional and frustrating state of being down Depression: the persistent and pervasive battle with strong, discouraging emotions  Bob referenced some of his writing here: Depression Redeemed Depression and Medication Depression and Practical Helps Book Resource: Spurgeon's Sorrows by Zac Eswine If you are struggling, not sure where to turn, reach out for help. Your spouse or local supportive relationships should be primary. Should you require additional help reach out here, you can even call the Pastor Hotline for ​assistance. 1-844-PASTOR1

    23 min

  6. 03/12/2025

    MR9 PREPARING FOR THE CALL TO REPLANT

    In this EP the guys kick it to an episode from the Replant Bootcamp: Preparing for the Call to Replant w/Evan Skelton.  Here are some of the highlights Replanting is a worthy call Finding a church to Replant takes time Preparation of the Replanter is essential Are you interested in Replanting? Contact us at the Nashville Baptist Association and start a conversation today.

    31 min

  7. 03/05/2025

    EP8 CHURCH PLANTING NASHVILLE W/LEWIS MCMULLEN

    Nashville's growth is accelerating, creating the need for more churches. In this EP the guys sit down with Lewis McMullen, Healthy Churches - Church Planting Director for the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board. Some of the highlights include:  Statistics on the need for plants in Nashville Keys to starting and enduring well as a Church Planter Understanding the importance of starting with mission not a public worship service Are you interested in Planting in Nashville? We'd love to begin a conversation with you at the NBA.

    29 min

  8. 02/26/2025

    EP7 MINISTRY WIVES AND FRIENDSHIPS

    Welcome back! In this EP the guys are joined by Lauren Gray and Barb Bickford as they discuss the role of friendships among ministry wives. Listen in as they share some practical encouragement and offer a way for the wives of ministry leaders an opportunity to connect.  Ministry Wife Connection Form

    24 min
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About

Stories + Encouragement + Equipping for Pastors from Pastors and ministry Practitioners pursuing the mission of Jesus in the local church

Information

  • Creator
    Bob Bickford
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Ministry Rhythms