Ministry Rhythms

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.

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.

Revitalize by Andy Davis

Gospel Way Catechism – Thomas West & Trevin Wax

Falling in Love with Jesus – David Jackson (Free via NAMB)

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Hosts return after a hiatus

Introduction of new staff: Nick Lingle, Church Renewal Strategist (Westwood Pastor, started June 1)

80% of SBC churches (including 151 locally) need some degree of renewal

Renewal can be slight or extensive

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)

Difference between building from scratch and restoring something broken

Renewal requires reintroducing Scripture-based methods into stalled structures

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?"

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

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

Concerns like finances, facilities, and survival often take center stage

Renewal must begin with spiritual vitality, not just strategic change

Healthy churches begin with healthy pastors

Leaders must maintain their own vibrant walk with Christ

Organizational skill ≠ Spiritual leadership

Phrase from Tim Wheat (NAMB): “Be with Jesus”

Pastors must be spiritually present—not just programmatically active

Prioritizing time with Christ fuels authentic ministry

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

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

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:

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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

If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, your leaders or for resources, we’re here to help.

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.

Bob referenced some of his writing here:

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

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

Are you interested in Replanting? Contact us at the Nashville Baptist Association and start a conversation today. 

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: 

Are you interested in Planting in Nashville? We'd love to begin a conversation with you at the NBA. 

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

Do you feel like a "rookie" when it comes to prayer? The guys break down a few thoughts on prayer in the life of a ministry leader. Gary shares some insights from his cohort experience in the Praying Leader and they recommend a resource: Old Paths, New Power by Daniel Henderson

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In Today's EP Bob catches up with friend, colleague and author, Dr. Kyle Bueermann. Kyle's book, They Devoted Themselves, is an exposition of Acts 2:42-47. Listen in as the guys unpack the six elements of discipleship in the local church.

Resources Mentioned