Ken Shigematsu

So, here's a preacher who claims, "I am now in a place where I no longer feel the pressure of preparing a sermon." And I want to say, "Seriously? Are you in denial, or what?" But then I remember this is a preacher I really trust—Ken Shigematsu. Check out his article—"Taking the Pressure Out of Sermon Prep"—and note what he calls the "longer, more relaxed preparation runway" for sermon prep. Ken argues that this approach "fosters creativity and a greater sense of peace."

And Ken also gives us the spiritual foundation for this approach to sermon prep in this week's featured sermon—"God Is at Work." Note: it's a sermon for preachers, so read it for your own encouragement. As preachers we're called to work hard, but we always labor knowing that God is also at work building something good and solid.

Also, check out these new resources:

• Featured Illustration: New Study Measures Value of Creation
• Featured Video: Worst-Case Scenario: This mini-movie reminds us that God wants us to trust him with our tomorrows, and realize that he is faithful to walk with us through whatever may come.
• Featured Sermon: "God Is at Work" by Ken Shigematsu
• Featured Skills Article: "Taking the Pressure Out of Sermon Prep" by Ken Shigematsu

Matt Woodley
Editor, PreachingToday.com
editor@preachingtoday.com

P.S. Also, check out this week's free bonus preaching skills article—"Why a Pastor Should Have a 'Study,' and Not an 'Office.'" Should pastors have an "office" or a "study"? Does it matter? Gerald Hiestand argues that what you call your office/study reflects profound differences in how you view your pastoral role. Check it out. Hiestand sure made me rethink my view.

Matt Woodley is the pastor of compassion ministries at Church of the Resurrection in Wheaton, Illinois.