Affirmation: So Powerful

That Moment When...
You know that feeling when you say something and you aren't sure whether or not people are going identify with it? As soon as the last word leaves your mouth, your heart starts racing and you're just praying somebody says something like, 'Yeah, I totally know what you mean' or 'Really? Me too!' or even 'I am so glad you said that!' I have often experienced that nightmare come true. When nobody says anything and finally your wife speaks up to recover your dignity as much as possible. (awkward)

Something We All Want
We all want to be affirmed and we all want to have somebody (usually means more from someone we trust) let us know how appreciated and valued we are because of our thoughts and opinion. 


Give it Freely, Genuinely, and Often!
So often we withhold affirmation because we assume the other people already knows it. If they were smart enough to say what they just said, they must know how great what they said was. The same is true with actions. Affirm without expecting anything in return. Affirm without being worried of seeming redundant.


Don't force it. Be real and genuine with your affirmation as well as your confrontation. People value honesty, especially after the fact.


Don't hold back! Let the affirmation, encouragement, and compliments fly! Our communities, schools, work places, etc. could use a strong injection of kindness. 

So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. - Apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:11

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Who could you affirm today?

How are you going to do it? (Go ahead, put

some special thought into it!)

How, Father? How?

What?? You still blog Peter?


It has been way too long!


Sorry for the absence. I can honestly say that I have missed all of you and have missed sharing the things I am learning with you. I hope you and your family have been well.


A few weeks ago Beth and I headed to Boston and New Jersey to visit some great friends and see family. As we were walking through downtown Boston, I couldn't help but be amazed by the diversity that exists in a city that is only 47 sq. miles. So many different walks of life. So many stories. So many views on education, politics, religion, fashion, and where to get the best plate of fish and chips. 













Every time I travel to a major city I am overwhelmed by the statistical reality that so many people are living without the hope and love of Christ. We traveled to old church after old church and it was so apparent that religion and especially Christianity are considered a thing of the past in modern culture.

Father, how can I make your story come alive?

How can I be a light? 

How can I let them know how much You care? 

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 

- Jesus Christ

Father, I'm willing.

How do you talk about your beliefs? 


When was the last time you brought up religion in a conversation? What was the result?

What My 'Papa' Has Modeled to Me

Today (June 4) is my father's birthday. He will be...well he's older than 29.

He's the one who's not my mom.

In a world where dad's are often labeled and seen as losers, deadbeats, abusers, lazy, and many other negative things, my dad is none of those things. 

He:

1. Provides Wisdom

Decision after decision in middle school, high school, college and beyond my dad has been a solid rock of perspective that has been a blessing to Beth and I. My heart breaks when I think about the young men in this world who don't have access to that perspective and insight on life. 

2. Models a Loving Husband

Is my dad perfect? Nope. He'd be the first one to tell you that. But, being a loving husband doesn't mean being perfect. It means being patient, kind, unselfish, and faithful. Along with being a provider, defender, and encourager. 

3. Hugs Me

My dad wasn't always this way, but over the past eight years he has become an excellent hugger of his children. When He sees me, one of the first things he does is come up and give me a big hug and ask me how I'm doing. It may seem simple. If you're in middle school or high school reading this, it may seem lame. But, let me tell you that it is one of the greatest acts of love my father exhibits. 

Thank you, Papa. I love you! 

Happy Birthday.