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Carey Nieuwhof

The cracks reveal your character


Hi Reader,

Another Easter in the rear view mirror. First, thank you for leading through it.

Second, how are you doing today? Really?

A little true confession from me.

I'd like to think I'm going to be known for my big moments (like a record weekend service!) and my best moments.

But the truth is, we're often known for our worst moments, especially by those closest to us. At least they feel them the most.

Often, after a big weekend, I'd crash, and the people around me would bear the brunt of that.

I had a moment like that a little too recently.

In ministry, your character will be tested more than your competency ever will be.

I'd come off a 'great' week, speaking to thousands of leaders, epic podcast interviews, some great family time, and then, after it was over, I had a week where all the little things bothered me. My agitation showed.

I thought I'd be over that pattern by now. Nope.

The problem with little things getting to me is that most of life is little things.

And in this particular week, delays, last-minute changes, surprises, and not having the control I want over my time got to me.

So... that means I'm checking my character again (which is another way of saying I'm checking my spiritual development).

I'm praying for you on this Easter Monday. You had a huge weekend. People were impacted by the Gospel. You played a role.

Enjoy it. Give thanks. Take the win.

Don't let the exhaustion—and the little things—get to you.

In ministry, your character will be tested more than your competency ever will be. And today's a great day for the enemy to get under your skin. Don't let him.


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Steps to grow this week

Book
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Podcast
Tuesday

Arthur Brooks' best advice for preachers and how to reclaim 20 hours of sermon writing time. Subscribe →

Podcast
Thursday

Bill Gurley—legendary investor behind Uber, Snapchat, and Twitter—shares his best advice on finding a mentor, landing your dream job, and what he'd tell young leaders just starting out.. Subscribe →

On The Rise
Friday

What the past has to say about the present, a guide to self-publishing, and women in ministry. Check your inbox on Friday!

Video
Monday

People are lying about church attendance (my reaction to new data). Check your inbox on Monday!

Event
September

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Cheering for you,

P.S. The good news is that God always meets us in all of our moments with his grace. Also, you're not alone. We're in this together.

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Carey Nieuwhof Communications, PO Box 160, Oro Medonte, Ontario L0L 2X0

Carey Nieuwhof

Don’t settle for an impact smaller than you’re called to make. It's time to unlock your potential and lead confidently into a future filled with growth — for yourself, your church, and your mission. Get access to some of my best leadership content, only published in my newsletters.

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