John Markum

When “stuff” hits the fan

It never, ever, ever fails. My wife and I have practically learned to set our schedules to it. Every time – and I do mean every time – that we start praying audacious prayers and asking God to do something in proportion to the glory He is worthy of through our lives, church, community, etc. […]

The Benefits of a Young Pastor

I was 14 years old when I committed my life to vocational ministry and preached my first message. I graduated Bible college at 22, and at 24 was ordained. Now, at 33, I’m the lead pastor of a church plant. I regularly get told, “You don’t look like a pastor?!” I actually enjoy this comment. […]

Affair Proof Marriage

“He cheated on me. He finally admitted it. I never thought this would happen to us.” I’ve heard some version of this sickening story enough to make me want to puke just thinking about it. And I’ve heard it from the men almost as often as I have the wife. Sadder still, several of the […]

The phrase no pain, no gain has been a mantra for athletes and fitness junkies for years. And what they understand about physical pain needs to be broadened to a much more general use in all of our lives. Pain hurts. That's the whole problem. No one enjoys it, and if someone does, we rightfully

The Premium of Pain