Chuck Allen Cut Out the Noise: Finding Clarity and Peace in a Busy World There’s a lot of noise in the world today. From the endless scroll of TikTok, to the heated debates on Facebook or Instagram, not to mention the crazy anger shared on X. Add to social media the constant...

Ever feel like you're spinning your wheels? Cranking out tasks, climbing the ladder, chasing the next big thing… but still feeling… empty? Like something’s missing? You’re not alone. We're all wired to crave meaning, to contribute something real to the world. But somewhere along the line, we often get it...

4forFRIDAY June 6, 2025 I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in the hope that you might also enjoy them. Happy Friday! A book that we all should read: Experience Jesus. Really: Finding Refuge, Strength, and Wonder through Everyday Encounters with God A podcast we should all listen...

4forFRIDAY May 30, 2025 I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in the hope that you might also enjoy them. Happy Friday! Here is a brief but fascinating article: 31 NOBEL PRIZE QUOTES THAT CHALLENGE THE ‘FAITH VS. SCIENCE’ MYTH You’ll be glad that you watched this video...

As you enter your 60s and beyond, you've reached a significant milestone. Maybe you're enjoying retirement, an empty nest, or checking off bucket list items. Or perhaps you're facing health challenges, financial struggles, or emotional battles. The world suggests happiness comes through exercise, travel, and social connection. But as believers, we're...

What My Surgery Taught Me About Vision and Vulnerability There's something profoundly humbling about admitting you can't see clearly anymore. For years, I'd been squinting through life, tilting my chin upward just to see the world straight on, convincing myself this was normal. My drooping eyelids had become more than a...

I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in the hope that you might also enjoy them. Happy Friday! A fantastic casual restaurant in Sandy Springs: Brooklyn Cafe. Don't miss the crab cake salad! A place that I thoroughly enjoy, and feel healthier doing it! Playa Bowls in...

Chuck Allen The Power of Positive Interaction: How Wholesome Words Reshape the Brain and the Soul What if every word you spoke was building something-inside someone else’s mind, and even inside your own?Let’s talk about the radical, brain-altering, soul-awakening power of positive interaction. Not as a motivational poster, but as a living,...

Some people just light up a room. Not because of their looks, but because of who they are and how they make others feel. Science and Scripture both point to a deeper kind of attractiveness-one rooted in kindness, authenticity, and presence. What Really Makes People Attractive Listening Like You Mean ItWhen you...

We all do it. We project ourselves onto others. Psychologists call it “projection”-the tendency to assume that others think and act as we do, for the same reasons. When we’re overwhelmed, we imagine everyone else is too. When we’re annoyed by interruptions, we assume others would be as well. But...

A SIX-MINUTE PODCAST WITH CHUCK ALLEN A SIX-MINUTE PODCAST WITH CHUCK ALLEN What if the forgiveness you're withholding from your parents is actually blocking something in your own life? Our parents were just humans trying to figure out life while simultaneously being responsible for other humans. That's a pretty massive assignment. Whether you had...

A Happier, Healthier You Day 1: The Five-Minute Miracle Look, I’ll bet that you're thinking. "I don't have time to help others—I can barely help myself." But what if I told you it takes just five minutes to change someone's day? And yours in the process? Today, do one tiny favor for...

Ever notice how some people radiate joy, even in the hardest circumstances? I mean, really radiate.Not the fake kind. Not the “everything’s fine” mask.But something deeper.Something that hums beneath the surface.A kind of lightness that isn’t about circumstances at all. Paul, sitting in a prison cell, writes to his friends about joy.Joy.From...

There's this moment that happens sometimes when I'm holding onto hurt. Maybe you know it too? That heavy feeling in your chest when someone has wounded you deeply and letting go seems impossible. Today, I want to talk about forgiveness—not as a spiritual obligation we check off our to-do lists, but...

Have you ever wondered why some conversations seem to flow effortlessly, while others get stuck in a rut of small talk? In David Brooks' "How to Know Someone," chapter five explores the crucial art of revealing—how we share our inner selves with others and create the conditions for them to expose...

I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in the hope that you might enjoy them as well. Happy Friday! Please consider liking and following two Instagram pages that are encouraging this week: The Weekday Podcast Positive Talk Podcast Easily One of the Best Novels I Have Ever Read. It...

We live in a world of constant distraction. Our eyes are fixed on screens, our minds divided between tasks, and our conversations happen while we're thinking about the next thing on our to-do list. But knowing someone—truly knowing them—begins with a radical act: paying attention.

Aging isn't optional—it's inevitable. The whole debate about being "anti-aging" or "pro-aging" completely misses what matters most. We all age. But how do we do so gracefully and beautifully?

Pull up a chair, and let’s chat about Monday, shall we? Let’s imagine we’re strolling down those ancient, sun-baked streets of Jerusalem, back when the air was thick with anticipation, and the very stones seemed to hum with a divine purpose. It's Holy Monday, a day often tucked away in...

Chuck Allen Palm Sunday: A Reflection on Christ’s Kingship and the Start of Holy Week Palm Sunday, celebrated on the Sunday before Easter, marks the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. This event, recorded in all four Gospels, is a cornerstone of Christian faith, symbolizing both the fulfillment of prophecy and the...

Here you go - A refresher on a Christian’s view on Passover. Let's unpack this. You know, we often rush through the Old Testament, like it's some historical prelude before the main event. But the truth is, the whole story, from Genesis to Revelation, it's a unified narrative. And at...

April 11, 2025 I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in hope that you might enjoy them as well. Happy Friday! Please consider liking and following two Instagram pages that are encouraging this week: Neighborhood Meals on Wheels Positive Talk Podcast A fascinating read by Norty Cohen: PROMPTING ORIGINALITY,...

Hey friends! You know that feeling when you're searching for something more? That restlessness in your soul? There's a beautiful reason for that! If this world were all there was—if it was supposed to completely satisfy us—wouldn't that be kind of depressing? I mean, think about it! If I was made...

I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in hope that you might enjoy them as well. Happy Friday! Please consider liking and following two Instagram pages that are encouraging this week: Neighborhood Meals on Wheels Positive Talk Podcast A fresh take on chicken that is really good. At The...

Hey there, friend! You know what I've been thinking about lately? How we need to celebrate our inner oddities. Yes, you heard me right! When we sit down in counseling, what we're really doing is digging deep to find the core of who we truly are. And let me tell you,...

4forFRIDAY Match 21, 2025 I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in hope that you might enjoy them as well. Happy Friday! Please consider liking and following two Instagram pages that are encouraging this week: Neighborhood Meals on Wheels Positive Talk Podcast Looking for a simple, encouraging way to get...

For many of us, we live in the age of, "the older I get, the better I was." For others, it might be, "the older I get the more regret I live with."

There's something powerful about a heart that's been broken open. Not crushed by life's circumstances, but opened—made tender and receptive to both pain and joy.

This week’s 4forFRIDAY | March 7, 2025 I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in hope that you might enjoy them as well. Happy Friday! Please consider liking and following two Instagram pages that are encouraging this week: Neighborhood Meals on Wheels Positive Talk Podcast A Great and Humorous Article:...

By Chuck Allen Life is rarely a smooth journey. We all face storms, valleys, and unexpected trials that shake our foundations. Yet in God's economy, nothing is wasted—especially our hardships. As I've walked through my own wilderness seasons, I've discovered this profound truth: adversity shapes us, builds our resilience, deepens our...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY | February 28, 2025 I enjoy sharing a few things I’ve enjoyed over the previous week in hope that you might enjoy them as well. Happy Friday! Please consider liking and following two Instagram pages that are encouraging this week: Neighborhood Meals on Wheels Positive Talk Podcast A fascinating, and truth-filled...

A Reflection on Psalm 121 In today's world of uncertainty and constant change, we all search for something solid to depend on. The ancient words of Psalm 121 offer timeless wisdom about protection that resonates just as powerfully today as when they were first written. This psalm speaks to that universal...

Friendship is a Gift The Transformative Power of Authentic Relationships: Moving Beyond the Surface by Chuck Allen There's a moment when we decide to drop the armor we've been carrying—sometimes for years—and show up as our true selves. It's terrifying and liberating all at once, like stepping off a cliff and discovering...

I enjoy sharing a few recommendations each Friday with my friends and followers. Some weeks it contains books, articles, and restaurants. Others weeks it might include podcasts, music or even products I am enjoying. Thanks for stopping by and joining me for this week’s 4forFRIDAY.  January 31, 2025 Finding a church home...

By Chuck Allen I've witnessed (via television) every Super Bowl ever played. From Super Bowl I at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in 1967 to this year's showdown, I haven't missed a single championship game. Through economic booms and busts, personal triumphs and setbacks, church services, and the evolution of football itself,...

I enjoy sharing a few recommendations each Friday with my friends and followers. Some weeks it contains books, articles, and restaurants. Others weeks it might include podcasts, music or even products I am enjoying. Thanks for stopping by and joining me for this week’s 4forFRIDAY. January 24, 2025. A podcast...

I recently read an article in which Coach Andy Reid of the Kansas City Chiefs was describing what made his star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes so amazing. In the article, Coach Reid unpacked seven characteristics that we can all learn from as we lead our teams, families and organizations. My big...

Wholly or Holy "Friends, in our spiritual journeys, we often seek to understand what it means to be truly whole. The word 'Holy' shares its roots with 'wholly,' reminding us that completeness is not just a state of being but a heartfelt commitment. When we wholeheartedly offer our minds, hearts, souls, and...

Finding Grace in the Pause: What Atlanta's Snow Day Teaches Us About Slowing Down There's something quite miraculous about the way a blanket of snow can transform a bustling city like Atlanta into a scene of stillness and wonder. As I write this, looking out my window at the unusual sight...

I enjoy sharing a few recommendations each Friday with my friends and followers. Some weeks it contains books, articles, and restaurants. Others weeks it might include podcasts, music or even products I am enjoying. Thanks for stopping by and joining me for this week’s 4forFRIDAY. Easily one of the best books...

Friends, let’s be real. Life’s challenges can hit hard, but it’s in these gritty moments that we discover profound truths. I’ve been wrestling with Isaiah 43:2, and its powerful reassurance has been like a lifeline: "When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you...

Success—what does it really mean? For most of us, we’ve been fed a version of success that’s tied to external markers: promotions, salary bumps, the perfect house, an Instagram-worthy vacation. But what if I told you that true success isn’t about these checkboxes? What if it’s about the internal shifts,...

PRIDE IS MY PROBLEM I know it isn't just my problem; it is my part of our problem that is so difficult to admit to and then change. I cannot fathom why I have a pride problem. I mean, I've failed more than I've succeeded. I am now well into my...

Get After Gratitude The Sacred Science of Thank You, by Chuck Allen Have you ever noticed how a simple "thank you" can transform your entire day? Like morning dew glistening on grass, gratitude has a way of making everything sparkle with fresh perspective. I was reminded of this truth recently while watching a...

Thanks for reading this week's 4forFRIDAY. I love to share my recent favorites, like books, articles, research, quotes, restaurants, or music. If I don't speak with you before next week, have a great Thanksgiving. Here are my suggested reads, listens, learnings, and reviews for Friday, November 22, 2024 Read this article...

Welcome to this week's 4forFRIDAY. It's a joy to share select reads, listens, learnings, and reviews with you. Thanks so much for reading along! A fascinating read from Molly Fletcher: Dynamic Drive: The Purpose-Fueled Formula for Sustainable Success. Powerful leadership lessons! n a world fixated on fleeting success, Molly Fletcher, renowned...

4forFRIDAY | October 25, 2024 My Favorite Steak Tacos these days. Armando’s in Duluth, GA. No kidding, the steak tacos and lobster tacos are amazing at this hole in the wall. Easily one of the best novels that I’ve ever read. I listened to it this past week, 2 years after reading...

1 A fascinating article about teen mental illness and its connection to social media from the CDC. Frequent Social Media Use and Experiences with Bullying Victimization, Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Hopelessness, and Suicide Risk Among High School Students — Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2023 2 One of the best books...

Thanks for joining me on this week’s 4forFRIDAY, a collection of suggested reads, listens, and reviews. Have a great weekend!September 27, 2024 If you are a fan of Jazz music, you'll totally dig this guy: Mace Hibbard. It's so good! A fun article from Travel & Leisure: America’s Best Small Towns of...

THOUGHTFULNESS Hey there! Let’s take a moment to reflect on something that’s super important in our daily lives: thoughtfulness. Sometimes, we get caught up in our busy schedules and forget just how much a little kindness can brighten someone's day. As we read in Galatians 6:9-10, “Let’s not get tired of...

Thanks for joining me for my weekly recommended reads, listens, learnings, and reviews. I trust you've had a great week and weekend ahead. Here is my 4forFRIDAY September 19, 2024 It is a solid read, even if it is my book. My friend, Bobby McGraw, and I have a new book, GROW...

A Guide to Realistic Success a guide to realistic success Winning at everything can often feel like a distant goal, especially in a world filled with challenges and competition. However, the true essence of success lies not in the external accolades but in what you can control: your mindset, your reactions, and...

By Chuck Allen In today’s article, let’s dive into the world of complicated relationships. You know, those connections that make you want to simultaneously hug and strangle the other person? Yeah, those. We all have them. We all need a way to work through them. What makes a relationship "messy?" Simply...

Thanks for joining me on this week's 4forFRIDAY, a collection of suggested reads, listens, and reviews. Have a great weekend! September 6, 2024

Although the universe pressures us to conform, there's an undeniable power in being true to yourself. Jenny and I attended the Gwinnett Chamber’s Moxie Awards recently. By the way, the Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce is the very finest chamber in America. That was verified last year as they were...

The Five Relationships that Every Christian Needs In our journey of faith, the relationships we cultivate play a crucial role in shaping our spiritual growth and overall well-being. The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of community and meaningful connections. As C.S. Lewis wisely noted, "Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art…...

I enjoy sharing a few things in my life that you might enjoy as well. Each Friday, I offer four reads, listens, learnings, or reviews and add a quote. Thanks for joining me on this week’s 4forFRIDAY. August 30, 2024

The Four Pillars of Happiness: A Clinical and Biblical Perspective Hey there, happiness seekers! Ever wonder what really makes us truly content in life? Well, after diving into some research and reflecting on ancient wisdom, I've come to believe that our overall happiness boils down to four essential elements. Let's break...

Ah, election season! That magical time when our TVs transform into portals to an alternate reality where every candidate is simultaneously a saint, a superhero, and your next-door neighbor who just wants to borrow a cup of sugar.

Owning your leadership is a cornerstone of effective Christian leadership, rooted in the wisdom of self-reflection and accountability before God. As the Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 13:5, "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves." This principle extends to our daily walk as...

Mirror neurons: the neurological equivalent of that friend who always copies your social media posts. Discovered in the 1990s by a team of Italian researchers led by Giacomo Rizzolatti, these peculiar brain cells have been celebrated and scrutinized in the scientific community. Let's dive into the world of mirror neurons...

Ah, election season! That magical time when our TVs transform into portals to an alternate reality where every candidate is simultaneously a saint, a superhero, and your next-door neighbor who just wants to borrow a cup of sugar. Let's dive into the wonderfully fictional world of presidential campaign ads, shall...

1 A Really Good Read from Eric Metaxas: Everything You Always Wanted to Know About God (but were afraid to ask)  2 My Favorite Shoes These DaysKiziks - No Laces and No Hands Needed - Bonus is a Super Fit in the ATHENS 3 A Paramount+ Show Based on a Great NovelJenny and I Loved...

Occasionally, I read a book that greatly impacts my life in multiple ways. This is one of those books. While I’ll try to give you a healthy overview, I encourage you to grab a copy and read Adam Grant’s book. In an era where information is abundant and opinions are...

In recent years, the phrase "Make America Great Again" has echoed through our nation, sparking passionate debates about what truly defines American greatness. While politicians and pundits argue over policies and ideologies, they may be overlooking a fundamental element that could genuinely transform our society: empathy.

Navigating the Tightrope: Certainty and Uncertainty in the Human Experience In the complex tapestry of human existence, we often find ourselves balancing precariously between two seemingly opposing forces: certainty and uncertainty. I’d like to jump into the intricate interplay between these mental states, examining the challenges of living with unwavering certainty...

Thanks for joining me for this week’s recommended reads, listens, and reviews. August 9, 2024. 1 A fun and adventurous movie based on a true story. I’m such a sucker for a “based on a true story” film. ARTHUR THE KING 2 A very good playlist from JJ Grey and Mofro. It’s...

"How to Avoid Becoming a Cantankerous Codger: A Guide to Aging Gracefully (and Hilariously)" Growing old is inevitable, but growing grumpy is optional. As we age, it's all too easy to slip into the stereotype of the cranky elder, shaking our fists at clouds and lamenting the good old days. But...

Starting high school has always been a rollercoaster of emotions, but the landscape of this educational rite of passage has transformed dramatically from the disco era to the digital age. As I pondered the differences of when I started high school (1974) and compared it to starting high school in...

"Lifting Our Eyes: Finding Hope and Help in Psalm 121" "The mountains are calling and I must go," wrote John Muir, capturing the human instinct to look up and beyond ourselves when seeking inspiration or guidance. This same instinct is beautifully articulated in Psalm 121, which invites us to lift our...

Welcome to "Revelation 19," one of the most vivid and powerful chapters in the Bible. This is another example of how the Scriptures offer timeless wisdom and sacred texts. I love this text and I love the song by the same name, here. Thanks for joining me as we...

"First Day Jitters: A Timeless Tale of Schoolyard Terror" As the calendar flips to August, a collective shudder ripples through the children of the world. The first day of school looms on the horizon like a monster under the bed, ready to devour summer memories and spit out homework assignments. It's...

Being a Really Good Neighbor: Building Community in a Divisive World Social media connects us globally but often isolates us locally. In our diverse and divided society, the art of being a good neighbor has never been more crucial. The concept of neighborliness goes beyond mere proximity; it's about cultivating...

Compassion, Character, Competence, and Coachability Leadership is an extraordinary journey that demands a unique blend of virtues and capabilities. As leaders, we are entrusted with the responsibility of guiding and motivating those around us towards a common purpose, all while embodying qualities that reflect our essence. In the realm of successful...

Life Lessons from the High School Gridiron: Remembering the Titans/Comets Playing high school football is more than just a sport; it's a journey filled with invaluable life lessons that shape young athletes into resilient individuals. One movie that powerfully captures the essence of these lessons is "Remember the Titans." This film,...

"Why America's Brightest Minds Dodge the Oval Office Like a Radioactive Potato" In a world where the presidency of the United States is often described as the most powerful position on Earth, you'd think America's best and brightest would be lining up around the block to get a shot at the...

I enjoy sharing good books, podcasts, music, gadgets, movies, or restaurants each week in my 4forFRIDAY.Thank you for joining me today. July 26, 2024 Watch this fun and entertaining movie: “Fly Me to the Moon.” It really is a good film. Enjoy this solid business/leadership book: Empowered: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Products  Be...

Healing the Divide: Uniting America through Love and Understanding The current state of division within America's political landscape has taken a toll on our families, friendships, communities, and churches. The deep-rooted polarization and animosity between differing political ideologies have created a rift that seems insurmountable at times. Families are torn apart by...

The Builder and His Crew Have you ever felt like you were tirelessly working towards something, only to realize that it might all be in vain without God’s guidance? That's the sentiment captured in Psalm 127:1, where it's beautifully put, "Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain....

I was greatly impressed with Cal Newport's book, "Deep Work." I am presently reading his new book, “Slow Productivity.” I cannot encourage you enough to read both of these thoughtful reads. Here are a few things that I try to implement from his excellent advice… The Power of Focus: Shaping Your...

The Power of Empathy: Seeing Beyond the Surface In a world that often feels disconnected and divided, Brené Brown's words ring with profound truth: "Everyone has a story or a struggle that will break your heart. And, if we're really paying attention, most people have a story that will bring us...

The Boundless Grace of God: Forgiveness and Healing In a world often marked by pain, regret, and brokenness, there's a profound truth that offers hope to every soul: "There's nothing you've done that God can't forgive. And there's nothing that's been done to you that He can't heal." This powerful statement encapsulates...

I enjoy sharing good books, podcasts, music, gadgets, movies, or restaurants each week in my 4forFRIDAY. A Really Great Movie: Sound of Hope from the creators of THE CHOSEN A Really Great Piece of Pie: BUTTERMILK PIE A Fantastic Podcast: LEADERSHIP IS A RELATIONSHIP with Dr. Brené Brown An Article that Every Man...

Let's dive into this fascinating story about Jesus and Peter. From The Message: John 18:1-11Jesus, having prayed this prayer, left with his disciples and crossed over the brook Kidron at a place where there was a garden. He and his disciples entered it. [2-4] Judas, his betrayer, knew the place because...

How our modern obsessions can hinder our ability to rest in God's provision: The Timeless Wisdom of Psalm 90: Finding Rest in God's Goodness. In the crazy, hectic busyness of our modern world, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. We often find ourselves caught in a never-ending cycle of...

he Mirror of the Soul: Harnessing the Power of Self-Reflection Imagine standing in front of a mirror. What do you see? At first glance, you might notice your physical appearance - your hair, your clothes, perhaps a blemish on your skin. But what if you could look deeper? What if that...

The Power Found in Quietude and Solitude In a world that constantly bombards us with noise, distractions, and a relentless pace, the value of solitude and quietude often gets overlooked. Yet, these elements are essential for enhancing productivity, maintaining mental health, fostering spiritual development, and nurturing relationships. I'm relatively new to...

I was intending to teach on forgiveness yesterday at Sugar Hill Church, but felt compelled to speak on another subject while in the middle of the Yucatan Peninsula. Here are a few notes from the original sermon. Title: The Transformative Power of Forgiveness: An Inside Job Have you ever struggled with...

If you missed today’s teaching at Sugar Hill Church. Here is a super brief recap… "You can't defeat the causes of evil with more anger. You can only defeat it with love." #LoveOverHate "Don't use evil as a weapon to make your point. Choose to go after evil with the love of...

THE FREEDOM THAT COMES WITH FORGIVENESS What Happens When You Don't Forgive Have you ever held onto anger or resentment towards someone for far too long? Maybe you've experienced the heavy burden of unforgiveness weighing down your heart and soul. There is a saying that goes, "Holding onto anger is like drinking...

I enjoy sharing good books, podcasts, music, gadgets, movies, or restaurants each week in my 4forFRIDAY. THANK YOU FOR JOINING ME FOR THIS WEEK’S OFFERINGS - JULY 12, 2024 A Really Good Book I Enjoyed and Learned a Great Deal From: THE SABBATH A Really Fun Game Jenny and I Play to Have...

The Tale of Three Kings: A Journey in Leadership and Humility I read a lot of books. I owe my love of reading to a pastor I worked for years ago. The first time that I heard the phrase, “leaders are readers,” I committed myself to reading every day. On a...

7 Ways Your Actions Speak Far Louder Than Your Words In a world where words flow freely through countless channels of communication, it's easy to forget that our actions often convey our true intentions and character more powerfully than anything we say. As the old adage goes, "Actions speak louder than...

Four Lessons from the Trenches: Surviving Fatherhood with Six Daughters When people hear I have six daughters, their reactions range from awe to horror. "How did you do it?" they ask. Well, let me tell you, it's been a wild ride. Here are four crucial lessons I've learned along the way: Embrace...

The 6 Habits of Spiritually Mature Leaders Spiritual maturity might be the most crucial aspect of effective leadership, particularly in faith-based contexts. It is also a significantly missing attribute in far too many organizations, including the American church. Here are six habits that characterize spiritually mature leaders, along with guidance on how...

Thanks for joining me on the weekly 4forFRIDAY. This is a collection of things I am enjoying, have enjoyed, or think you will enjoy. I’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to let me know what you think. Here is my 4forFRIDAY for the week of July 5, 2024 1 I Just...

Four Timeless Lessons from Benjamin Franklin: A Founding Father's Wisdom After watching the Apple TV original, “Franklin,” I was determined to dig a bit more deeply into the leadership of this great American. I am fascinated with the impact that he had on our great country. I also wonder, where did...

How we convey value says a great deal about us. Conveying value to others is a fundamental aspect of human interaction that impacts our relationships, professional lives, and overall social fabric. Let’s examine value conveyance's mechanisms, effects, and benefits, providing insights that can enhance our daily interactions and contribute to...

The Benefits of Living an Unoffendable Life…Or at least, trying. In today's hyper-connected and fast-paced world, it seems as though everyone is easily offended by something. Social media platforms amplify voices and opinions, often leading to conflicts and misunderstandings. It is a corn maze of offenses that we learn to...

Thanks for joining me on the weekly 4forFRIDAY. This is a collection of things I am enjoying, have enjoyed, or think you will enjoy. I'd love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to let me know what you think. Here is my 4forFRIDAY for the week of June 28, 2024 1 I...

I’m a huge fan of The Chosen's production and storytelling. Like many people, I was a little slow to jump in and embrace a “Jesus Movie.” But from the first season through the most recent episodes, I LOVE how Jesus and His followers are depicted. Yes, I know the creators...

Addressing Food Scarcity Among Senior Adults Aging in Place in Gwinnett County, Georgia As the population of senior adults continues to grow in the United States, many older individuals are choosing to age in place, remaining in their homes and communities for as long as possible. However, this decision comes with...

The Humorous Journey of Growing Older: 6 Quirks of Living in Your 60’s Ah, the golden years! They're called that because, well, everything starts to turn a lovely shade of yellow – your teeth, your toenails, and even your sense of humor. But fear not, for growing older isn't all about...

Judson Van DeVenter, the author of the beloved hymn "I Surrender All," was a prominent figure in Christian music and ministry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in 1855 in Indiana, DeVenter dedicated his life to serving the Lord through music and preaching. He was not only...

The Danger of Gossip: Rebuilding Trust and Healing Relationships Let's cut to the chase: gossip is a destructive force that tears at the very fabric of our relationships, leaving behind a trail of hurt, mistrust, and broken bonds. While it may seem harmless at first glance, gossip has the power to...

I am not one of those perpetually optimistic Americans who doesn't see the significant challenges of our republic, but I believe, with all of my heart, that we are still the greatest country on the planet...or at least the greatest conceptual republic on the planet.

Living No Lies: Living Authentically In a world saturated with filters, and falsehoods, the pursuit of authenticity emerges as a beacon of light, guiding us towards a life filled with honesty, integrity, and true self-expression. It is so refreshing to be with people who are so comfortable in their own skin...

Keeping Your Mind Sharp and Staying Curious Have you ever experienced the sheer delight of getting lost in a captivating story, feeling your mind expand with each turn of the page? If so, you're already well aware of the incredible benefits that reading offers not only to your imagination but also...

The Power of Chasing After Peace in Your Life Finding peace can seem like an elusive goal in the hustle and bustle of our 21st-century life. The demands of work, family, and personal aspirations often leave us feeling overwhelmed and restless. But hear me, please. As Christians, we are called to...

I trust that you’ve had a fantastic week! Thanks for reading my 4forFRIDAY list of READS | LISTENS | LEARNINGS | REVIEWS for June 14, 2024. 1. A Really Great Book from Steve Woodruff: The Point: How to Win with Clarity-Fueled Communications 2. A Really Interesting Article: When Do We Stop Finding New Music?...

One of my favorite biblical characters is the Apostle Peter. He was a rough, tough fisherman that most likely never overthought anything in his life. But he definitely lived his life, especially as he walked and lived with Jesus, wide open with reckless abandon. Peter, if he were here today,...

I recently read (again) the story of Queen Esther from the Old Testament. Esther shares a fascinating story. The book of Esther tells a story of Jewish life under Persian rule. Esther is a Jewish heroine, that marries a Gentile king—an event that saves the Jewish people from destruction. The...

As Christians, we are called to live each day with faith, hope, and love, embracing the life God has given us. "Don't Let the Old Man In" by Toby Keith, inspired by Clint Eastwood, encourages living vibrantly at every age. Embracing faith, purpose, relationships, and God's love enables us to...

Now that I'm in my 60s, aging isn't just a concept; it's a reality. Reflecting on my life, I see God's hand guiding me. My choices today impact my future, just as my past choices shaped who I am now. I wonder if my younger self could have treated my...

From Little Things, Big Things Grow From Little Things, Big Things Grow: 5 Strategies for Making a Positive Impact Do you ever feel like you want to make a difference in the world but don't know where to start? Me too. Let's look at 5 powerful strategies that will help you make...

I trust that you’ve had a fantastic week! Thanks for reading my4forFRIDAY list of READS | LISTENS | LEARNINGS | REVIEWS for May 31, 2024. 1. A Breakfast Joint You Should Definitely Try Soon!BOMB BISCUIT CO. 2. Literally the Best Donut I have Ever EATENDONNIE'S DONUTS 3. A Movie That Really Moved My Soul. From Angel...

Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does change the future. Go Ahead and Forgive Yourself Forgiveness is a transformative tool that can heal, empower, and propel us forward in life. It liberates us from the shackles of hurt, anger, and resentment, fostering peace within ourselves and with others.  Yet, the...

I trust that you’ve had a fantastic week! Thanks for reading my4forFRIDAY list of READS | LISTENS | LEARNINGS | REVIEWS for May 17, 2024. 1. A REALLY GREAT NOVEL - I LOVED THIS BOOKTHE MANY LIVES OF MAMA LOVE, a memoir 2. ANOTHER GREAT NOVEL - I LOVED THIS BOOK AS WELLTHE WORLD...

Week Seventeen of 2024 is almost in the books.It has been a super-busy and at times, quite frustrating.I trust that you've had a fantastic week!Thanks for reading my4forFRIDAY list of READS | LISTENS | LEARNINGS | REVIEWSfor April 26, 2024. 1.A Really Great Show from Apple TVMANHUNT (The story of John...

Week Sixteen of 2024 is almost in the books.Thanks for reading my4forFRIDAY list of READS | LISTENS | LEARNINGS | REVIEWS for April 19, 2024. 1. A Soap for Guys that I Really LikeTHICK from DUKE CANNONEspecially the Midnight Swim 2. A Really Good Podcast-How I Built ThisMike Cessario came up with the...

Week Fourteen of 2024 is almost in the books.It's been a super-busy week at church as we followed up with so many people from Easter services.. This is a troubled world in desperate need of peace - So Seek Peace Today!I trust your week has been fantastic! Have a great...

Week Twelve of 2024 is almost in the books.Its been an amazing week of serving so many people in crisis. This is a troubled world in desperate need of peace. I trust your week has been fantastic! Have a great weekend, and thanks for reading my4forFRIDAY list of READS |...

Week Eleven of 2024 is almost in the books.I'm 3 weeks into my recovery from knee replacement surgery. I’m so glad I’ve turned a corner and gained some mobility. Thanks for your prayers and thoughts!I trust your week has been fantastic! Have a great weekend, and thanks for reading my4forFRIDAY...

Week Ten of 2024 is almost in the books.It has been two weeks recovering from a knee replacement surgery. I'm so glad I've turned a corner and gained some mobility. Thanks for your prayers and thoughts!I trust yours has been fantastic! With daylight savings about to kick in, our evenings...

Week Eight of 2024 is almost in the books.It has been an awesome week in the church and the non-profit work.I trust yours has been awesome!Have a great weekend,and thanks for reading my 4forFRIDAY list of READS | LISTENS | LEARNINGS | REVIEWSfor February 23, 2024. 1. A Very Handy GadgetKUXIU FOLDING...

Week Six of 2024 is almost in the books.What a week! It has been an amazingly hectic week. I trust yours has been awesome!Have a great weekend, and thanks for reading my 4forFRIDAY for February 9, 2024. 1. Such a Great Album!THE MAVERICK WAY - COMPLETEMAVERICK CITY MUSIC 2. A Really Fun Novel from...

Week Five of 2024 is almost in the books.This has been a week full of challenges, victories, defeats, and life. My prayer for you today is that you will experience the peace that only Christ can offer.Have a great weekend.Thanks for reading my 4forFRIDAY for February 2, 2024. 1. An Apple TV...

Week Four is almost in the books for the new year, 2024. This has been a week full of ministering to and counseling people in severe trauma or heartache. My prayer for you today is that you would chase after and enjoy the peace of the Divine. I trust your...

Week Three is almost in the books for the new year, 2024. This has been a crazy busy week, and I'm ready to have a Saturday! I trust your week has been great and that your weekend is filled with joy! In the new year, I pray that you might...

I can guarantee you that not a single reader of this article woke up with a desire to lose today. We all love to win. The thrill of victory is a lot sweeter than the taste of defeat. Over the past few years, I've learned the hard way that there...

Week Two is almost in the books for the new year, 2024. After a weird bout with the flu, week two was much more enjoyable and productive. I trust your week has been great and that your weekend is filled with joy! In the new year, I pray that you...

To describe last year would be impossible. I experienced a fantastic year. But I can assure you that it was a journey filled with ups and downs, victories and defeats, wins and losses, heartaches and joy. But four things stuck out to me as I reflected on 2023. I enjoy...

Week One is almost in the books for the new year, 2024. I started this new year off with a whopping case of the flu! But I cannot whine too much. I've avoided sharing this crud with the world and hunkered down in the home office to get the year...

James Clear is a fascinating guy, the author of the best-selling book Atomic Habits. I loved the book. I'm a fan of his BLOG and his work. I trust that you will enjoy these quotes and find use for them in your new year. Here's my favorite quote from Clear:...

Week 51 of 2023 is almost in the books. Wow! This year has flown by. "For unto you is born this day in the City of David, a Savior." Enjoy this season and seek peace this crazy, busy week. Thank you for joining me each week for the 4forFRIDAY. And Merry...

Week 50 of 2023 is almost in the books. Wow! This year has flown by. I used to hear older people talk about how time flies and wondered what they were smoking. Now that I am an "older person," I am confident that each person who said that understated the truth....

Making a Difference: 7 Simple Steps to Give Yourself Away in Service Are you ready to make a difference? To leave your mark on the world and give back in a meaningful way? I believe that true fulfillment lies in selfless service, and want to show you just how easy it...

How serving others strengthens you mentally, emotionally, spiritually and physically. THE RIPPLE EFFECT Have you ever noticed that when you do something kind for someone else, it seems to have a positive impact not only on their life but also on your own? That's because there is a powerful ripple effect...

Week 47 of 2023 is almost in the books. Wow! It's hard to fathom how the time has flown by, and it's Thanksgiving week. I trust that you and your family enjoy this holiday season. Have a great weekend, and allow the holiday colors to brighten your day! And as you...

Practicing Gratitude: Unlocking the Key to a Positive Mindset and Increased Peace Happy Thanksgiving Week! If you have followed me over the years, you know that I had an extreme meltdown several years ago. I went from a high-functioning leader to an emotional train wreck. A series of what seemed like life-crashing...

Week 46 of 2023 is almost in the books. This has been a super-busy week. It never fails. As we head toward the holidays, problems in relationships and families seem to be exacerbated. I’ll be teaching this week with Anna Beth Havener on Israel and the War in Gaza. Join us...

Week 45 of 2023 is almost in the books. This past week, I traveled to South Dakota to pheasant hunt with my son-in-law. It was a fantastic time, and I cannot wait to go back and experience the wonders of South Dakota. I'll be teaching this week on Finding a Compassionate...

Week 43 of 2023 is almost in the books. What a week! I feel like it's been one of those weeks where everything I touched turned to mufflers instead of gold! Let's start again on Sunday. I'll be teaching this week on Winning Communications at Sugar Hill Church. Join me online...

Week 42 of 2023 is almost in the books. It seems so distant and yet so close to me. The war in Israel has had a significant impact on my life. I have friends whose lives have been turned upside down. Friends who have their lives in danger and friends with...

Week 40 of 2023 is almost in the books. It's hard to imagine that we are already in the fourth quarter of this year. It's even harder to believe that I'll be 64 next week. I must admit that my 60s have been good to me. Have a wonderful day and...

Week 39 of 2023 is almost in the books. It's been a great week with many beautiful opportunities to serve others, learn, grow, and lead. Have a wonderful day and a fun weekend ahead! And as you go, go in peace! Thank you for joining me each week for the 4forFRIDAY. This Week’s 4forFRIDAY A...

Week 38 of 2023 is almost in the books. It's been a non-stop, all-out sprint to the finish this week. As a result, I'm pooped and ready for some college football this weekend. I hope your team wins unless you wear orange or have a mascot named Buzz! Have a wonderful...

Week 37 of 2023 is almost in the books. What a week! It's starting to feel a bit more like Fall in Georgia, but it's still pretty warm. Football is back and How 'bout them Dawgs? Our season starts in earnest this week against the "Gamechickens" from the other Carolina. Coach...

Week 36 of 2023 is almost in the books. I had a super busy week. With the college football season underway, here are a few thoughts. Florida looked terrible. Colorado looked incredible. South Carolina lost the battle of the Carolinas looking pretty pathetic. Clemson, oh Clemson. You Clemsoned again. And how about...

Week 35 of 2023 is almost in the books. I had a frustratingly hectic week. In a world that has seemingly gone mad, problems that step into my office are challenging, at best. I'm grateful for a loving Creator who offers grace, mercy, peace, and hope. I trust you’ve had a wonderful...

Week 34 of 2023 is almost in the books. I had a fabulously busy week of meetings, speaking, and serving. I love what I do, and I’m honored to serve the folks I serve with. I trust you’ve had a great week and a fun weekend ahead! Thank you for joining me...

Week 32 of 2023 is almost in the books. I have a great week of learning and serving. I love what I get to do, and I’m honored to serve the folks that i serve with. I trust that you’ve had a great week and a fun weekend ahead! Thank...

Week 31 of 2023 is almost in the books. It’s been a busy week with school getting back in session, and church activities full speed ahead. I trust that you’ve had a great week and a fun weekend ahead! Thank you for joining me each week for the 4forFRIDAY. This Week’s...

Week 29 of 2023 is almost in the books. It’s been a week full of travel to Northern Michigan with dear friends. This is a most beautiful part of our country and We have enjoyed the cool temperatures, slower pace, and gorgeous scenery. I trust you are ready for a...

The true power of forgiveness is that it resets the clock by rewriting the past.

Week 28 of 2023 is almost in the books. It’s been a week full of travel to the Yucatán Peninsula. While there, we dug a water well and helped plant a new church. They are amazing people. You can read about what we did in the Yuatán if you want to...

Maybe we folks, here in the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave, have chosen to forget the concept of contentment and exchanged it for greed, selfishness, barbed-wire fences, and our never-ending fight for our rights.

As the Medical Examiner completed her work and the young man's body was removed from the home, the mother collapsed in grief. It's understandable. Grief - unexpected, horrible grief is like a tsunami of emotion that floods your body with a pain that cripples the strongest constitution.

Week 27 of 2023 is almost in the books. It’s been a week full of storms and celebrating our nations birthday. Summer is in full swing as we are more than halfway through 2023. Enjoy the long days and warm weather. I trust you are ready for a great...

Week 25 of 2023 is almost in the books. It’s been a week of fun as Sugar Hill Church hosted hundreds of kids at Vacation Bible School. It is still one of the purest forms of ministry and community for families and kids! I trust you are ready for a great...

Week 24 of 2023 is almost in the books. It’s been a week of surprises, frustrations, and awesome victories. I trust you are ready for a great weekend. I read this the other day and trust that it will encourage you. "When I see only scarcity, I miss the fact that every single...

Week 22 of 2023 is almost in the books. It’s been an awesome week. I trust you are ready for a great weekend. I read this the other day and trust that it will encourage you. Don't let “opportunity” steal your focus. When your attention goes to many things, no...

Week 21 of 2023 is almost in the books. I've spent most of the week in Uvalde, Eagle Pass, and Del Rio, Texas. I am amazed at the resiliency of these Texas Border Towns. I read this the other day and trust that it will encourage you.Quantity Leads to QualityIf...

Week twenty of 2023 is almost in the books. Wowzer, it's been crazy this week. I read this the other day and trust that you will be encouraged by it."Above all, trust in the slow work of God. We are quite naturally impatient in everythingto reach the end without delay....

Week eighteen of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a crazy week. I trust that yours has been awesome and that YOUR WEEKEND AHEAD WILL BE AWESOME! I read these words earlier this week, and I trust they are an encouragement to you. What do very...

Week seventeen of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a busy but productive week. I trust that yours has been awesome and that YOUR WEEKEND AHEAD WILL BE AWESOME! I’d like to share a prayer for peace that might benefit you – God, it seems that every...

Week sixteen of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a great week here in Uvalde, Texas. I trust that yours has been tremendous and that YOUR WEEKEND AHEAD WILL BE AWESOME! I’d like to share a prayer from Peanut’s Carlie Brown – Be yourself. “No one...

Week fifteen of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a great week, including a full day of fly-fishing. I trust that yours has been tremendous and that YOUR WEEKEND AHEAD WILL BE AWESOME! I’d like to share a prayer from Anne Lamott – “Here are the two...

Week fourteen of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a super-busy, exciting week. Jenny and I now have an eighth grandchild. Julie and Mark welcomed our newest grandson, Hank, into this world on Wednesday. It's Good Friday. The day that Hope rose from the grave. I...

How does the thief on the cross fit into your theology? No baptism, no communion, no confirmation, no speaking in tongues, no mission trip, no volunteerism, and no church clothes.

Week thirteen of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a hectic, overextended, fantastic week. Here are your 4forFRIDAY Reviews for March 31, 2023.

Breaking Free: How Disconnecting from the News Improved My Mental Health In a world where we're constantly bombarded with news and information, it can be challenging to take a step back and focus on our well-being. That's why I recently decided to disconnect from the news entirely - and let me...

Living Our Faith: How to Practice Christianity in a Secular Society Living our faith in a secular society can be challenging. With so many distractions and conflicting beliefs, it's easy to get lost in the noise of the world. But as Professing Followers of Jesus, we are called to live out...

Week twelve of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a challenging yet encouraging week. I trust that yours has been great and that YOUR WEEKEND AHEAD WILL BE AWESOME! May the Lord Bless You this Weekend with Peace. May He comfort you with His Presence and His...

Week eleven of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a wonderfully productive week. I’ll trust that yours has been great and that YOUR WEEKEND AHEAD WILL BE AWESOME! May the Lord Bless You this Weekend with Rest. May He comfort you with His Peace and His Power?Here...

Keys to Change: Remember the Good When It Feels Like Life Stinks Life can be tough sometimes. You may feel like you're stuck in a rut, and nothing seems to go your way. But here's the thing: even when it feels like life is against you, there are still good times...

Week ten of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been one of the most frustrating weeks of my pastoral career. I’ll bet that yours has been a bit hectic as well. May the Lord Bless You this Weekend with Rest. May He comfort you with His Peace and...

Week nine of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a hectic week. I'll bet that yours has been a bit hectic as well. May the Lord Bless You this Weekend with Rest.Here are your 4forFRIDAY reviews for March 3, 2023. Four Lessons That I Learned This Week. Taking up an offense is...

Week eight of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a wonderfully busy week.Here are your 4forFRIDAY reviews for February 24, 2023. Four Lessons That I Learned This Week. There will always be people that care more about orthodoxy than people. Uggghhh. The only way to not be criticized is to NOT do or...

Week seven of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a challenging, but awesome week.Here are your 4forFRIDAY reviews for February 17, 2023. Four Lessons That I Learned This Week. I was reminded that there will always be people that find fault with anything or everything. I learned that...

Repairing and Returning to American Values America is built on certain values that have been lost in recent years. We have been so caught up in the busyness of our lives that we have overlooked the importance of living with compassion, empathy, and kindness towards ourselves and others. This article will...

Week six of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a great week.Here are your 4forFRIDAY reviews for February 10, 2023. Four Lessons That I Learned This Week. I learned that whether you are in the middle of the Yucatán Peninsula or in Sugar Hill, GA, people are hurting, lonely, and burdened. I learned...

Five Tips For Keeping Your Marriage Fresh And Strong Having a strong and healthy marriage takes effort and dedication. Whether you've been married for a few years or decades, it's essential to keep the spark and connection alive. In today's article, we'll explore five tips to help you do just that—avoiding...

The Ache For True Connection: Why Meaningful Relationships Matter For Men We all know the saying, “no man is an island,” and it’s true! In today's article, let's explore why meaningful relationships and friendships are essential for men physically and emotionally and how they can help men grow as individuals. Read...

Monday Motivation: How To Make Every Day A Little Better Mondays can be challenging. The start of the week, coming off a fun weekend, can sometimes feel like a drag. But with the right motivation, it doesn't have to be that way! Learn how to make every day great with these...

In a world of constant stress and worry, it can be easy to forget the importance of taking time for yourself. Attending church services can be a great way to take a break from your daily routine and invest in your emotional health. Read on to find out how going...

Week five of 2023 is almost in the books, and it has been a great week. Here are your 4forFRIDAY reviews for February 3, 2023.

What if I told you that a particular type of neuron could shape and determine how we interact with others and the world around us? It may sound like something from a science fiction movie, but it's real – and these are known as mirror neurons. Read on to find...

Our nation is in a crisis. Political polarization has reached an all-time high, and Americans are increasingly divided, creating a dangerous dynamic for our society. But there is hope - in today's article, we'll explore why we need to change our political system before it's too late. Why is America Dying? It's...

AChuckAllen.com Prayer can be a powerful tool in helping improve children's mental health. I want to explore how parents can use prayer to help children cope with life's struggles and some of the benefits that come with it. Find out how you can unlock the power of prayer and use it...

Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY. A list of suggested reads, listens, learnings, and reviews.

January 20, 2023 Week three of 2023 is almost in the books, and it’s shaping up to be a great year. I trust your new year is off to a good start as well. Here are your 4forFRIDAY reviews for January 20, 2023. Four lessons that I learned this week. The debt ceiling...

January 13, 2023 Week two of 2023 is almost in the books and it’s shaping up to be a great year. I trust your new year is off to a good start as well. Here is your 4forFRIDAY for January 13, 2023. Four lessons that I learned this week. 1. I’m...

JANUARY 11, 2023 It doesn't take a Ph.D. to determine that this world has gone mad. From politics to race relations, the human race has become a blustering ball of hate. We use the harshest of words to frame someone different than us as a villain. We do that on...

January 6, 2023 It’s just the first Friday of 2023 and although I wished to ease into the new year, I feel like I jumped off the high dive and got a wedgy. Here are four quick lessons for the new year. 1. Accomplishing something significant takes time, but time...

12/31/2022 It's been quite a year. Political strife, racial tensions, and really bad political ads. So, let's leave a few things in the rearview mirror this New Year's Eve. 1. Let's leave our unforgiving attitudes in the past and move on with a choice to have a radically forgiving spirit in...

1. An APP We Can All Benefit from ANXTY Widget (Panic Button) This is most likely my favorite ap of 2022. I use it every day. It's a simple way to connect and anchor your runaway thoughts to the intense love of God. It's so, so good. If you are stressed,...

On May 24, 2022, evil stepped into Robb Elementary School and took the lives of 19 children and two teachers. Pure evil is the best way to define the senseless massacre of these precious children. I've been to Uvalde five times since the shooting, and each time I return, I'm...

1. A GREAT Article from Scott Sauls: Jesus and Women During Advent and Always I loved this article. It might offend you, but give it prayerful consideration. Here's a snippet from Scott: "It is clear that God esteems and elevates women and men. For this reason, I am sharing something I...

Guarding Your Soul This Christmas. By Chuck Allen I love this time of year, or at least I've convinced myself that I do. I often think that I reminisce of how I'd like to remember Christmas more than I actually love this most wonderful time of the year. With the kids...

1. A Truly Great ChristmasAlbum: A Windham Hill Christmas I’m a sucker for some new, yet classic Christmas music. Available on all music platforms. The link above is on Spotify. 2. A Band I’m Totally Digging on Spotify: St. Paul and the Broken Bones This is a gritty, happy, sassy band that...

For years, I have been an evangelist of gratitude. Not because I live a Pollyanna, positive-thinking lifestyle, but because of what intentional gratitude did to change my very existence.

1. A GREAT BOOK: Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk: A Christian's Guide to Engaging Politics Eugene Cho has written a great book on how Followers of Jesus can and should engage in the political and social climate in today's marketplace. Not only is this a helpful read, it is most...

November 4, 2022 NUMBER ONE: A GREAT BOOK, HUMAN CENTERED COMMUNICATION We’re spending more time than ever in virtual environments. That will only increase, as will the amount of noise we encounter there. The seemingly endless series of unwelcome digital distractions range from frustrating to dangerous. As individuals and businesses, we not...

October 29, 2022 NUMBER ONE: A Really Good Article from Jim Denison Dr. Denison is a brilliant author with a keen sense of where Christianity and America collide. This is a solid read and will take you about 6 minutes. NUMBER TWO: A Really Fun Christmas Album from Crowder-Milk and Cookies In typical...

4forFRIDAY October 7, 2022 ONEA TRULY GREAT READ: Addicted to Busy: Recovery for the Rushed Soul FIND IT HERE We are all spread too thin, taking on more than we can handle, trying to do so much—almost as if we are afraid that if we were to take a moment of rest, we...

4forFRIDAY September 30, 2022 ONEA BOOK THAT I TRULY LOVED: What Do You Really, Really Want?: Discovering What Matters Most And Taking Action To Achieve Your Important Goals FIND IT HERE In this unique narrative of life-changing conversations, Kevin Stebbings offers an authentic framework for overcoming the distractions of life to rediscover what...

4forFRIDAY September 23, 2022 ONEA SPOTIFY PLAYLIST THAT I USE WHEN WORKING: Totally Stress FreeFIND IT HERE I like a little music while I'm working and this has been my go-to playlist lately. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!–Chuck TWOA POWERFUL QUOTE FROM SHAWN BLANC: When you make something that matters,...

ONEA GREAT ARTICLE FROM THE DENISON FORUMFIND IT HERE You all know that I read the Denison Forum everyday. This is a great five-minute read. Here's a quote from Jim: "I do not know a single person who works for a railroad. Before this morning’s news broke, I had no...

Join Chuck Allen for his weekly 4forFRIDAY. A collection of four recommended reads, listens, learnings, and reviews.

4forFRIDAY AUGUST 26, 2022 ONEA NEW RESTAURANT FOR COMFORT FOOD: Bubba's 33 My friend, Julie Homrich suggested this new joint near the Mall of Georgia is comfort food at it's best. I promise that you'll like it. Like shrimp? Try the "shotgun shrimp po' boy."--Chuck TWOA MOVIE THAT WE ENJOYED: Thirteen Lives In the...

I have learned to love the word COMPASSION. Unfortunately, I haven't always loved it. I spent a great deal of my life with a self-filled condition that locked my heart from experiencing compassion I'm not proud of it. I am embarrassed of that truth During a a...

4forFRIDAY | August 19, 2022 ONETHIS IS A REALLY HELPFUL LIST FOR THOSE OF US THAT PROCRASTINATE 1. Set a short timer2. Ask someone to help you3. Get a focus buddy for accountability4. Only do one thing at a time5. Time block your tasks6. Go on a short walk and...

Join me and Julie Homrich, LPC for a brief chat about how our certainty of uncertainty can impact our anxiety and relationships, then grab Season 3, Episode 1 of The Positive Talk Podcast and join the conversation. https://videopress.com/v/mIcbVRhA?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true That's an intense look! The Positive Talk Podcast merges faith and psychology each Thursday with...

RECOMMENDED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS FROM ACHUCKALLEN ONEA GREAT BOOK: How to Have That Difficult Conversation: Gaining the Skills for Honest and Meaningful Communication FIND IT HERE Authors Henry Cloud and John Townsend take the principles from their award-winning and bestselling book, Boundaries, and apply them to the most common difficult situations and...

AChuckAllen | August 10, 2022 I've spent seven of the past fifteen days in Uvalde and DelRio, Texas. In that time, I have learned so much about the incredible people of Uvalde and America, the Beautiful. Some of what I have learned has shaken me to the core. But, on the...

AChuckAllen August 4, 2022 Have you ever been in the shower or riding down the road thinking, and it hit you that you might be wrong, but you doubt it? Yeah, me too. This week's article is focused on POLITICS! But, you know the age-old story; avoid politics at the Sunday...

ACHUCKALLEN AUGUST 2, 2022 Somehow, someway, we have trained ourselves to be easily offended. The minute I hit send on this post, I will begin the process of offending someone about being offended. We all know that it is true, don't we? Yet, at any given point, we must stop before...

AChuckAllen | Monday, August 1, 2022 Every week we are bombarded with another crisis. A school shooting, mass shooting, flood, fire, riot, shortage, war, and the hits keep coming. How can we respond to these crises without remaining angry, bitter, or hardened? How do we hear about more crises...

4forFRIDAY AChuckAllen.com July 29, 2022 ONEA REALLY GOOD ARTICLE: WHAT DO CATHOLICS BELIEVE?FIND IT HERE The beliefs of different Christian denominations throughout history have caused everything from minor skirmishes involving distinctives of the faith (how often to partake in communion, etc.) to major battles over non-negotiable doctrines (the Bible is God’s Word,...

AChuckAllen.com July 28, 2022 Nope! This is not a bash America, pro any political party, point fingers, and play the blame game article. This is a hard look at where we are as a nation and what we can each do to make this place better than the way we found...

AChuckAllen.com July 26, 2022 I've spent the last couple of days in Uvalde, Texas. After landing in San Antonio, my friend Mauricio and I met another pastor from El Paso, Ozzie. Both are great guys and both have genuine hearts for helping people. We grabbed a car and headed to Uvalde,...

Each Friday I offer four recommended reads, listens, learnings, or reviews. Enjoy!

Welcome to a new weekly offering entitled, "I Might Be Wrong, But I Doubt It." It's pretty simple. Every Thursday, I would like you to join me in a common sense discussion, and I'd love to hear from you as you tolerate my assumptions and studies that range from politics...

ACHUCKALLEN.COM JULY 15, 2022 ONEA REALLY GOOD BOOK: Balance: How to Invest and Spend for Happiness, Health, and WealthFIND IT HERE Drawing on behavioural science, evidence-based investing, and environmental science, he shows you how to start framing success in a way that actually brings happiness, not stress, into your life—by balancing your...

AChuckAllen July 14, 2022 If there has ever been something in this life that is certain, it is the presence of uncertainty. Uncertainty is as certain as death, taxes, and wait-times on customer service calls. So, why do a reported 81% of Americans stress out over Global Uncertainty? Global Uncertainty is...

Chuck Allen - July 12, 2022 If you are like me, most of the world Is driving you bat-crazy right now. Wars, shootings, inflation, politics, and the hits just keep on coming! If we aren't careful, we will find ourselves balled up In a fetal position, cowering under the weight of...

4forFRIDAY JULY 8, 2022 ONEA REALLY GOOD BOOK: Favor with Kings: God's Purpose, Your Passion, and the Process of Doing Great Things-link If you’ve ever had a dream; if you’ve ever felt stuck or restless; if you’ve ever experienced the discouragement of feeling like you’re behind, not good enough, or disqualified; if you’ve started...

4forFRIDAY JULY 1, 2022 HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY WEEKEND! In a recent poll, I read that the vast majority of Americans believe that America is "headed in the wrong direction." In the same article, I read that one-third of young adults are "not proud to be an American." In an effort to...

Your 4forFRIDAY June 24, 2022 ONEA MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT THAT I LOVED: NUR KITCHEN on Buford Highway Nur Kitchen is a modern, family-oriented, Middle Eastern restaurant located on Buford Highway in Atlanta, GA. Our menu showcases the bright & simple flavors of the Mediterranean from Turkey & Greece to Jaffa Port. We...

4forFRIDAY June 17, 2022 ONEA GREAT BOOK: The Stressless Life: Experiencing the Unshakable Presence of God's Indescribable Peace Vance Pittman has written an exceptional book for every beliver. Here is the Amazon highlight: Stress happens. We all feel it. It steals our joy, interrupts our sleep, affects our relationships, and wears us...

4forFRIDAY JUNE 10, 2022 ONEA Good Netflix Series: The Lincoln Lawyer Jenny and I really enjoyed this first season series based on Michael Connelly's novels. It was captivating and fun. I think you'll enjoy it!FIND IT HERE–CHUCK TWOAnother Audible Book I Enjoyed While Riding: Split Second by David Baldacci Michelle Maxwell has just blown...

4forFRIDAY JUNE 3, 2022 A Movie that Was So Good: Top Gun; Maverick I realize that I was 27 years old when the original Top Gun unleashed the "need for speed" in 1886, so I was skeptical about another Hollywood remake. This version was a great remake! I'm not necessarily a Tom...

A Great Movie for Date Night If you enjoyed Downton Abbey, you'll be entertained by the new Downton Abbey, A New Era. I realize that I am totally burning my man-card, but it really was a good film! We saw it at CineBistro.FIND IT HERE–CHUCK A Great Quote from Shaun Blanc's Newsletter...

MAY 6, 2022 Watch the White House Correspondents' Dinner, in 180 seconds If satirical humor doesn't amuse you, move on to the next suggestion. This is truly some funny stuff.FIND IT HERE–CHUCK THE CHOSEN - JOHN 3:16 IN VIDEO I've suggested this amazing series to everyone that will listen. I urge you to watch...

Each Friday, Chuck offers up four recommended reads, listens, learnings, or reviews. Join the conversation!

4forFRIDAY April 22, 2022 A LETTER TO YOURSELF - PLEASE DO THIS: FUTURE ME Each year, the week after Easter I send myself a letter to the “future me.” I describe the person that I pray I’ve become and remind myself of where I’ve come from. Everyone can benefit from this internal...

4forFRIDAY April 15, 2022 A GREAT QUOTE FROM JAMES CLEAR "Many good opportunities are ruined for the dream of slightly better ones. Would you have a more successful career if you had taken that other job or moved cities? Possibly. But your actual career will suffer if you don't commit to...

April 18, 2022 "Monday, Monday, so good to me." The Mamas and the Papas launched that song in 1966. There have been a few changes in the world since ‘66. But Monday hasn’t changed much. It is still the day that most of us never look forward to. Monday has a...

4forFRIDAY April 8, 2022 A GREAT SERIES FROM HBO+ with BRENE BROWN This Is so fascinating. Based on Brené Brown's b recent book, "Atlas of the Heart." She has a potty-mouth, but the content is so, so good. I am an unashamed Brené brown fan. Her research based writing around the human...

Over the past few months, I have discovered a more peace-filled and purposeful life stage. And it didn't require an Apple Watch, super-planner, conference, book, or retreat. It took solitude, investment, and trajectory. Here, let me explain.

4forFRIDAY April 1, 2022 A FUN AND EXCEPTIONAL RESTAURANT Del Bar Restaurant in Inman Park was simply amazing. Middle Eastern food prepared so delictably that we cannot wait to return. Lamb, sea bass, beeks and chicken kabobs and all the "fixings" were so good.--Chuck AN ENTERTAINING SHOW FROM CBS (go figure) The nine celebrities...

4forFRIDAY March 25, 2022 A POWERFUL QUOTE - REMEMBER THIS ONE! Criticizing is easy and fast. Creating is difficult and slow. The two hours you spent on a book or movie usually took two years to produce. Anyone can tear down someone else’s work. The true test of insight is whether you...

4forFRIDAY March 11, 2022 A POWERFUL QUOTE “If your soul is healthy, no external circumstance can destroy your life. If your soul is unhealthy, no external circumstance can redeem your life.” --John Ortberg, Soul Keeping A GREAT READ 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan B. Peterson A GREAT ARTICLE 5 Minimalist Habits to...

4forFRIDAY February 25, 2022 4 PODCASTS I HAVE ENJOYED TEN PERCENT HAPPIER with Dan HarrisA BIT OF OPTIMISM by Simon SinekTHE POSITIVE TALK PODCAST with Julie HomrichLET'S GO with Tom Brady, Larry Fitzgerald and Tom Gray 3 SONGS I AM LISTENING TO ENDLESS PRAISE by Charity GayleHOLY GROUND by Charity GaylePSALM 84 by Shane...

FOUR SONGS I HAVE ON REPEAT THIS WEEK WHERE I FIND GOD - by LARRY FLEETBROKE - TEDDY SWIMS and THOMAS RHETTGEORGIA ON MY MIND - ALLEN STONEYOUR STILL THE ONE - TEDDY SWIMS THREE QUOTES I CAN’T STOP THINKING ABOUT "The less you respond to rude critical argumentative people the more peaceful...

FOUR APPS THAT I USE EVERY DAY THINGS - TASK LISTSOULSPACE - MEDITATIONSPOTIFY - MUSIC AND PODCASTSSTREAKS - HABIT TRACKER THREE SONGS I CAN'T STOP LISTENING TO THIS WEEK WAGON WHEEL - OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOWTOUCHDOWN JESUS - TIM McGRAWFIRM FOUNDATION - MAVERICK CITY MUSICREST ON US - KIM WALKER SMITH TWO RESTAURANTS I...

DON'T MISS THIS 23 MINUTE CONVERSATION! In this week's Positive Talk Podcast, Julie and I have a conversation that will encourage you with some positive ways you can work through conflict in your marriage and relationships. Here is my favorite quote that Julie shared in this week's episode: "We can choose...

FOUR SONGS I HAVE ON REPEAT TAKE ME TO THE GOOD TIMES by The SufferersJIREH by Elevation WorshipREST ON US by Maverick CityUNBREAKABLE by Clarence Coffee THREE RESTAURANTS I NOW LOVE BARCELONA - Inman Park & Howell Mill RdCANTINA 141 - State Bridge at Medlock BridgeBLUE TOP - Chamblee TWO BOOKS I ENJOYED Atlas of...

FOUR BOOKS EVERYONE SHOULD READ The Tale of Three Kings by Gene EdwardsStart With Why by Simon SinekStanding Strong by Charles StanleyAtomic Habits by James Clear THREE QUOTES THAT MADE ME GO HMMMMM "We all have a lifetime of experiences we bring to any relationship so it’s not uncommon to need to sort...

I really hope that you have already subscribed to the Positive Talk Podcast featuring Julie Homrich, LPC, and myself HERE. If not, here are the show notes from this week's episode on Stress and Conflict in our Marriage and Relationships. I've also included a link to the podcast HERE, should...

I've been a part of many exciting ventures over the years, but nothing quite like ClearPath Counseling and the Positive Talk Podcast. Each Thursday, my good friend Julie Homrich joins me for a conversation that merges faith and psychology in a simple, practical, approachable fashion. Here is a link to...

FOUR INSTAGRAM FOLLOWS FOR EVERYONE @thebabylonbee@dwelldifferently@appsoulspace@dailystoic THREE Lessons I’ve Learned this Week Stress is inevitable. Not only is it impossible to live a completely stress-free life, but research shows us that stress is actually a precursor to meaning. Think about the last time you encountered something meaningful in your life…chances are, there was some...

FOUR THOUGHTS I’M WORKING THROUGH If you want to lose weight, make the choices that a healthy person makes. If you want to write a book, make choices that an authentic writer would make. Every choice you make is determining the person you’re willing to become. If you aren’t willing to...

FOUR THOUGHTS/QUOTES FOR THE NEW YEAR Mark Twain noted, "Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and see."“The main question is not, how can we hide our wounds…but how can we put our woundedness in service to others.” —Henri Nouwen“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing:...

FOUR QUOTES ON CHRISTMAS: “Christmas is built upon a beautiful and intentional paradox; that the birth of the homeless should be celebrated in every home.” –GK Chesterton"Nothing ever seems too bad, too hard, or too sad when you've got a Christmas tree in the living room."– Nora Roberts"Christmas is the day...

December 10, 2021, by AChuckAllen 4FOUR Quotes for This Week: Our goal is to keep the big things big and the small things small. It’s not that who Twitter’s CEO is isn’t important, it’s just not God-of-the-Universe important. Stay focused on eternity; it changes everything.You will never regret spending more time with your spouse...

4 - 3 - 2 - 1 4Here are FOUR solid thoughts for this week: Let quietude wield its influence upon you. Let the fact that you are alone assert itself. Give your soul time to get released from the many outward things. Give God time to play the prelude to...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers.So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY Updates. Cut the Cord and Enjoy YouTube TV I’m so happy to be done with cable and DISH. Haven’t had a single problem and have been able to see every live...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers.So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY Updates. Daily News Email with a Positive, Encouraging Vibe: The Pour Over I've dropped most of my other morning news emails to better enjoy this well-laid-out and encouraging news read. I...

Several years ago I was introduced to the concept of simplicity. I became aware that life, when boiled down to its lowest common denominator is not complicated, but rather simple and clear. Why then are we so anxious, stressed, and angry? Why are we touching our smartphones 2,000 times each...

October 29, 2021 by AChuckAllen I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers.So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY Updates. I Really Loved this Book:The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World I read a lot....

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY Updates.

October 21, 2021 We live in a strangely spiritual world here in America. On the one hand, we are more spiritual than ever and yet less religious than ever before. We are a country founded on Christian principles, yet we have and still fight over race, gender, and faith systems. I...

AChuckAllen It seems odd to suggest that in this world, you can accelerate happiness in your life. But you actually can create a sense of peace and genuine happiness within your soul if you so desire. If that’s the case, then why are so many people unhappy? In a recent article...

October 11, 2021 I turned 62 years old yesterday. In the past 365 days I’ve learned so many things about this world, and about me. Out of all the various lessons learned, these two have become the most significant in my life. I pray that they will be an encouragement...

Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for October 8, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers.So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. I Love This New Laptop Riser: 3M Laptop Stand If you work with a tablet or laptop you'll love this inexpensive, yet brilliant...

by Chuck Allen It's midweek, and I’ll bet you could use some cheerful news, or at least something humorous. Here you go. Fifteen things that make me laugh, even if they are ridiculous. Enjoy. Whenever I watch the Progressive Insurance commercials with Coach Rick coaching up later-aged adults, I laugh. It's too...

I don't know anybody that doesn't want to be happy. But after chasing happiness and counseling plenty of people that have burned out chasing happiness, I've learned a few key elements that can radically improve your happiness. ​

Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for October 1, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers.So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. A Seriously Great Read: Like War; The Weaponization of Social Media Through the weaponization of social media, the internet is changing war and...

Take care of your body now or you're going to ache when you're older.Don't waste one second trying to keep up with anyone. Nobody will care in a few years. What goes up will someday come down. Failure is inevitable. Learn from it.Forgive more freely and you'll live more freely....

Why do we constantly resort to binary thought patterns? Why does it always have to be one extreme or ​the other? Why not put a bit of compassionate common sense to work here?

AChuckAllen Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for September 24, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. A Great Article from WIRED Magazine: Psychologists Are Learning What Religion Has Known for Years Thoughtful, encouraging, and helpful. This is a...

I cannot think of a more passionate, powerful prayer for today. May this wash over you in grace and mercy. “Amazing God, There’s more to life than we can see, or we can fathom. Yet, how often we try to shrink your mystery. To tame your dream for us. To...

I’ll guarantee you, these seven things would radically make our world a better place to live in. ​

AChuckAllen.com Sometimes you just need a quick laugh - like this: 1. You cannot hide fat. 2. You cannot see your ears without a mirror. 3. You cannot breathe through your nose while sticking your tongue out. 4. You just tried number 3 . 6. When you tried number 3 you realized it...

“... the following conversation is a double win for you and your friend, child, parent, or spouse. Maybe even all the above!”

4forFRIDAY September 17, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. A Great News Source: THE MORNING BREW I’ve been using this simple news source for a few weeks now. I greatly appreciate the simplicity of...

Without MOB, we all have the power to spin out of control, make poor decisions, and destroy relationships.

Here are three super simple ways to make today better.

Grace-based Christian therapists understand the difference between the source of healing and tools used in the process of healing.

AChuckAllen.com In yesterday’s article, I offered 3 Pitfalls that you can willfully choose to avoid in your marriage. In today's article, I'd like to offer 3 Simple Steps that You Can Take to Create a Healthier Marriage. Proactively discover and deliver what your spouse appreciates and receives value from. In my wife's...

AChuckAllen.com I've heard it said that "marriage isn't easy." However, I've also heard that a marriage that survives and thrives takes work. While I agree with both of those statements, marriage shouldn't be too hard and require that much work. After all, we loved our spouse enough to say I do...

with Pastor Chuck Allen and Julie Homrich, MS, LPC I trust that you will enjoy this podcast from Positive Talk Podcast. Have you ever been stuck and you don't know what to do next? Take a few minutes to listen in to this week's podcast to determine your next best steps. Enjoy! positivetalkpodcast.com Peaceful...

Given the degree of hate and division in our country, only 20 years later, I am amazed at our incredibly short memories. On September 12, 2001, we were a country unified in serving one another, caring for our neighbors, and honoring our heroes. I pray that it doesn’t take the...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment.

by Chuck AllenSeptember 9, 2021 Life is complicated, fight for simplicity.Witholding forgiveness will cost you more than you want to pay.People that work for TSA in airports are most likely a pain in the butt.Anybody can be a jerk. Don't be anybody.Shopping at IKEA on the weekend is not a good...

AChuckAllen.com Mental health seems to be all the rage these days. Athletes, artists, actors, and stars are opening up with statements like, “it’s okay not to be okay.” But for us mere mortals, is it really okay to not be okay? I’m not attempting to be snarky in my question. I’m suggesting...

READ, LISTENS, LEARNING & REVIEWS Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for September 3, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. A Great Read: The Way...

August 31, 2021 Let's face it, this world is in a mess. Afghanistan, Southern Border, COVID-19, Hurricane Ida, Western Fires. Oh, my stars! The world has gone mad. And in the middle of all the chaos, we humans have grown more angry, anxious, and intemperate. Don't hear me...

READ, LISTENS, LEARNING & REVIEWS Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for August 20, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. A Brief Article that Every...

Ever wonder if you are strong enough for this world? I mean, have you ever wondered if you can truly cut it? I have. I’ve had so much performance anxiety that I couldn’t seem to put one foot in front of the other. But how are we to get tougher...

READ, LISTENS, LEARNING & REVIEWS Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for August 6, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. A New, Very Cool Weather...

READ, LISTENS, LEARNING & REVIEWS Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for July 23, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. AMust If You Love Pie!...

July 28, 2021 Okay, I'll admit it. I've struggled over the years with my emotional and mental health. I've wrestled with depression, anxiety, fear, and comparison. It's not my favorite thing to open up and talk about. Still, in a world of expectations and ongoing societal tensions, we seem to be...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment.

July 20, 2021 It's a simple question. Are you okay? With typical flippant answers to the question "how are you doing?" we rush to fill the empty airspace with "good, we're good." And yet, my office could be booked six days a week, twelve hours a day with counseling appointments filled...

July 19, 2021 It’s that day again - MONDAY! It screams in our face and I often hear people say, “well, it’s a Monday for sure. But what If Monday was a Monday that was so good to you as the 1960’s band, The Mamas and the Papas sang? In the song...

Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for July 16, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. A Podcast that is New To Me! The...

Here is Your 4forFRIDAY for July 2, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Happy Independence Dayand Thanks Again! A Book that Leaders...

JULY 2, 2021 Let me start this post with a simple yet poignant statement from our 40th President, Ronald Reagan, “Let me speak plainly: The United States of America is and must remain a nation of openness to people of all beliefs. Our very unity has been strengthened by this pluralism....

It's a Day Late - But here is Your 4forFRIDAY for June 18, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment.Thanks Again! A...

June 11, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Really Great Restaurant Experience: Restaurant 2 - 4 - 6...

June 9, 2021 A young friend of mine (Charlton Clayton) posted an Instagram pic on his wall that reminded me of an old story with a super powerful truth attached to it. It goes like this; If you fill a glass Mason Jar with 100 black ants (think picnic) and 100...

CHUCK ALLEN JUNE 8, 2021 I live a pretty public life. I speak in front of thousands of people weekly and offer my thoughts on multiple topics via a coupe of podcasts and this BLOG. I finish every meeting that I lead (other than a worship service) by allowing the participants...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWSfor June 4, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Fun, Fast-Paced Novel from...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWSfor May 28, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! My New Go-To Refreshment of Choice:...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for May 21, 2021 May 21, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Wonderful Resource...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for May 14, 2021 May 14, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Fantastic New...

May 13, 2021 I know, what could possibly be left unsaid about wearing a mask? Well, he are four thoughts for you to ponder over, as we still hear the battle from all sides. 1. Like almost anything in America, we found a way to politicize a face covering. Just spelling...

May 12, 2021 I thought I might try a small social experiment last week. I specifically asked one hundred people the same question; "if you are being completely honest, how are you doing?" Here are the results of this little experiment: The demographics included 31 White men, 22 White women, 11 Black...

I feel like the kind of people that display guts get destroyed in our 21st-century world. I'm not sure that I possess guts anymore. I stop and wonder if what I am saying will hurt my career, wound the church, scare the donors, or cause a firestorm of controversy on...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for May 7, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Really Great Movie on...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for April 30, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! My Favorite Email Newsletter -...

Let’s get this out of the way early: I love America. I know America isn’t perfect. I know we have a flawed past. I know we have significant issues, but I’m pretty sick of hearing about how terrible we are. If you are a poor white kid, America is a pretty...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for April 23, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Brief, but Awesome...

First, let's accept the fact that we all have some sort of anxiety, restlessness, or stress in our life. I haven't met anyone in the past year that has been able to say that they are stress or worry-free, at least honestly. The power of our brains is astonishing. Our...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for April 16, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings,and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! The Most Impactful Production of...

An Audio Take on Your Busy Life Take six minutes to listen in on this podcast. Each week, I record three podcasts that are a part of The Weekday Podcast. It's designed to be a "cup of encouragement" with a short piece of Scripture and a brief commentary. Just 5 Days...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for April 9, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Great Article from...

Register TODAY! THE FOUNDATIONS with CHUCK ALLEN I've never really discovered the best way to stay focused and build life-altering, spiritual routines until the past few years. Through study on habits, routines, and discipline, I've discovered that you can be a red-blooded, all-universe dude, and you can live a spiritually disciplined life!...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for March 19, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Great New Album from Hillsong: At Easter This...

Before I launch out in this new and better way to a far better life than "normal, " let me stop and say that despite the lives that we have lost and the pain inflicted by this virus, there has been some good that came out of it as well.

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for March 5, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Really Good and Brief Read: Five More...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for February 26, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Podcast I am Really Enjoying: Meaningful Conversations...

SELECTED READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS for February 19, 2021 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAYoffers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Great Book from Paul David Tripp: Journey...

Five years from now, you’ll be the same person you are today, other than the books you read, the places you go, and the people you meet. I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG....

February 5, 2021 Five years from now, you’ll be the same person you are today, other than the books you read, the places you go, and the people you meet.  I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each...

01.29.2021 Five years from now, you’ll be the same person you are today, other than the books you read, the places you go, and the people you meet. I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG....

Have you ever felt like you cannot win? I’m talking about that feeling you get when you’ve tried and struggled and worked your way through a day, and everything falls apart. Me too. So many of us are living in the middle of OVERWHELM. But here is what I would...

If you went back to President Bill Clinton’s first term and continued into President George W. Bush’s terms, then-President Barak Obama’s terms and President Donald Trump’s term, you would find two commonalities. First, you would discover that at the changing of the party platforms, radical changes took place. Second, you...

Friday, January 22, 2021 Five years from now, you’ll be the same person you are today, other than the books you read, the places you go, and the people you meet. I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on...

First, let me freely admit that I greatly underestimated Covid-19! I thought I would be a little sickly and get over it in a few days. Boy, was I wrong? I was one of those folks that had almost every symptom you can have. I was down and out of...

January 15, 2021 | READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, AND REVIEWS Five years from now, you’ll be the same person you are today, other than the books you read, the places you go, and the people you meet. I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and...

Five years from now, you'll be the same person you are today, other than the books you read, the places you go, and the people you meet. I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week,...

4forFRIDAY January 1, 2021 Happy New Year! I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, only for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! ALSO, PLEASE JOIN ME NEXT WEEK....

Merry Christmas 4forFRIDAY December 25, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, only for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Christmas Special you will LOVE!...

4forFRIDAY December 18, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, only for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Christmas Special you will LOVE! Christmas in Sugar Hill Over the 43 minutes...

Thanks so much for joining me for today's Advent Meditation. This is my seventh meditation and I trust you will be encouraged as you watch and listen. Psalm 23 (NLT)The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.He lets me rest in green meadows;he leads me beside peaceful...

4forFRIDAY December 11, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, only for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Wonderful Advent Devotion:Messages of Joy I am really enjoying these brief daily Advent...

Advent Meditation #4 Mary did you knowThat your Baby Boy would one day walk on water?Mary did you knowThat your Baby Boy would save our sons and daughters?Did you knowThat your Baby Boy has come to make you new?This Child that you delivered will soon deliver you.Mary did you knowThat your...

Psalm 27:14 Wait patiently for the Lord.    Be brave and courageous.    Yes, wait patiently for the Lord. https://videopress.com/v/buh242wr?posterUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fachuckallen.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F12%2F6FF15F14-38AC-438D-8D9D-359FECED51C7.png&preloadContent=metadata We all struggle as we attempt to wait on the Lord, but the adage is true; Good things come to those that wait. In this case, it is a matter of timing, not time. The Creator doesn't fit...

4forFRIDAY December 4, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, only for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Great Little Joint: 101 Bagels Bobby and I enjoyed coffee and brunch as...

A BABY CHANGES EVERYTHING Advent Meditation #2 https://videopress.com/v/AbaIAeso?preloadContent=metadata A BABY CHANGES EVERYTHING Have you ever read Bret Harte’s short story The Luck of Roaring Camp? Roaring Camp was the meanest, toughest mining town in the entire West. More murders, more thefts—it was a terrible place inhabited entirely by men and one woman who tried to...

Thanks for joining me for DAY ONE of my Advent Meditations. "I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.” Revelation 1:8 https://videopress.com/v/HWJzi42q?preloadContent=metadata \Discover Peace Today, AChuck

4forFRIDAY November 27, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, only for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Christmas Event with a Twist: BLUE CHRISTMAS Christmas...

WeekdayMeditation.com with Chuck Allen Welcome to Day Three of the Thanksgiving, Weekday Meditations. There should be something deeply spiritual about Thanks | Giving. Will you take 7 minutes and ponder what you are grateful for with me? https://videopress.com/v/IVuuLPSO?preloadContent=metadata “True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future, not to...

Day One of a Thanksgiving Meditation with Chuck Allen Each day this Thanksgiving week, I'll be providing a brief video or audio meditation. Each meditation is about five-minutes and will hopefully encourage you through this first holiday week of 2020. In a year filled with strife, fatigue, anxiety, and fear, I...

4forFRIDAY November 20, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, only for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Christmas Event with a Twist: BLUE CHRISTMAS Christmas can be difficult for so...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! 4forFRIDAY November 6, 2020 A Really Fun Place to Grab a Light...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! 4forFRIDAY October 2, 2020 A Great Selection of TED Talks: 10 TED...

4forFRIDAY September 25, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Great Documentary from Netflix: The Social Dilemma...

09.18.2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! I Loved this Podcast from Super Soul Conversations This is entertaining and...

09.04.2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! I Love this New Tool on my iPad Pro: NotePlan One app...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY August 21, 2020 08.21.20 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! I LOVED this Book from John...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY July 31, 2020 4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen July 31, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! An...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY July 17, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! An Awesome Article from Terry...

Maybe I am the only person that has felt the sting of imperfection, daily. I’m so far from perfect that I couldn’t even see perfect with the Hubble Telescope. Or maybe there are plenty of us out there and we just don’t talk about our imperfections, frailties, insecurities and failures? I...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY July 10, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again!  A Really Funny and Entertaining Series...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY June 26, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again!  A Great Series from Apple TV:...

If I Were 17 Again by AChuckAllen Even with the odd graduations of 2020, it would appear that we will be going back to school this fall. As a result, I started thinking about the things I would do differently if I were about to start my senior year at South...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY June 19, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again!  My New Favorite Sub: Jersey Mike’s My...

The USA & Baseball by AChuckAllen I'll freely admit it. I love baseball. I still think that baseball is America's game. But I cannot stomach the fact that this beloved game has become a snapshot of the 2020 version of the American life. Just think about this...Grown men that play a boys...

I’m Offended by AChuckAllen Everywhere I turn, somebody has been offended. Each time that I watch the news, there are people offended and often another group of people taking up their offenses. Come on, folks! We live in a world of diversity. We have diverse backgrounds, education, skin color, and spiritual maturity....

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY June 12, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again!  My New Favorite Steakhouse: Cotton Calf...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY June 5, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! A Really Good Read: ReSet...

Race Forward: God in Race Relations is a new Podcast launching June 2020 on your favorite Podcast platform with Chuck Allen, Corron Boston, Mauricio Mennesses and a host of guests. A new show every Thursday starting 06.11.20 I Can't Breathe - Let’s March by AChuckAllen Nine Minutes! George Floyd had already been...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY May 22, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

Race and the White Church by ACHUCKAllen Here is my Disclaimer: I am a 60 year old white pastor of a 5,000 member church. I am not a...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY May 15, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY May 8, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

Saturday Share from AChuckAllen by John PiperAll the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory. (2 Corinthians 1:20)Prayer is a response to promises, that is, to the assurances of God’s future grace. Prayer...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY May 1, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens, and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings, and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

Open When? by AChuckAllen Let's face it, if we open too soon, the critics will be screaming. If we open too slowly, the critics will be screaming. So, just to play the role of Captain Obvious here, no matter what you do, someone is going to be screaming at you. Got...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY April 24, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

Returning to a Better Normal: Four Steps to a Better Normal, by AChuckAllen I am constantly baffled at the simplicity that we continue to find new ways to make complicated. Somehow, as most American’s lives should have gotten more simplistic, we Americans have ramped up the rhetoric. That rhetoric isn’t confined...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY April 17, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY April 10, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

Here is a short video of what was happening on Thursday in Jerusalem, during the first “Holy Week” Maundy Thursday in JerusalemPeace,AChuck

The Monday After Palm Sundaywith AChuckAllen

Underdog to Hero by ACHUCKallen Whether you’re watching a ballgame, a TV show or a movie, it’s exhilarating to see “the little guy” overcome odds and win. When Rocky defeated adversity and fought the mythical, world’s greatest boxer, Apollo Creed--And when Rocky came back to fight Ivan Drago we cheered. Now,...

GRIT is Your Superpower by ACHUCKallen John Wayne was one of America’s great actors and great Americans. He somehow seemed bigger than life, and that may have been a result of the fact that he was popular in the age before social media took over! My two favorite John Wayne quotes are: #...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY April 3, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

Gloom, Despair and Agony on Me by ACHUCKAllen I remember watching “Hee-Haw” as a kid and thinking it was possibly the dumbest show that I had ever known of. After all these years, the only TV show that comes close is the “Masked Singer.” On that old show, “Hee-Haw,” they had...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY March 13, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

TROOP ZERO by AChuckAllen Jenny and I watched an Amazon Original the other night and I thought it was a must watch for America, especially during this political season of open name calling and deep-state poop that every aisle is slinging. It’s an odd movie with one of the most powerful...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY March 6, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY February 28, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

My Pop used to have a good word for folks with a poor mouth. He’d say, “If you haven’t got anything good to say, it’s your fault.” Pop was a wise man, with a guarded tongue. I’ve noticed how critical and calloused the world has become, haven’t you? It’s as though...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY February 21, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

Ash Wednesday and Protestants by AChuckAllen I grew up in some pretty strict, legalistic, Southern Baptist churches. As I remember them, they were really great for me. As a kid, I remember Bible drills, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and virtually nothing about the preaching. As a result, I had no...

These Ten Minutes Will Change Your Life by AChuckAllen I’ve read more leadership development and spiritual development books than I can count. I’ll continue to do so, as reading is one of the best ways to constantly sharpen your life, love and leadership. After all of those books, I’ve determined that...

If I Were Forty Again by AChuckAllenYou know what? We get older every single day. That's the end of this lesson. But! Every single day, you should get wiser. I have definitely gotten wiser over the past twenty years and here are four lessons that I would love to pass...

This Week's 4forFRIDAY February 14, 2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY February 7, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY January 24, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 01.17.2020I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Most weeks, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews A Really Good Movie: 1917This film is gritty and exhilarating to the degree that...

Lean Not and Find Your Way by AChuckAllenToday, I'd like to walk through Proverbs 3:5-6. This simple and powerful passage of Scripture can radically change the trajectory of your year and give you a huge leap into Your Best Year, Proverbs 3:5-6 “[5] Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do...

Three Simple Steps to a Better Marriage, by AChuckAllenI've been married twice. Once for 25 years and again for 13 years. Over the collective 38 years I've learned three things that can improve and strengthen every single marriage. After my first wife passed away in 2005, I was determined that...

I enjoy sharing an article that brought a teaching or encouragement to my life and thought Saturday might be a good day to share them with you. Today's article is from one of favorite authors, Dr. Jim Denison. Here you go: President Trump told the nation yesterday that no Americans were hurt...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 01.10.2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Most weeks, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews A Really Great Read: Life Without Lack by Dallas WillardPause for a moment and ask...

10 Things You Should Know about Reading the Bible by: Matthew S. Harmon Ph.D., Wheaton College I enjoy sharing an article that brought a teaching or encouragement to my life and thought Saturdays might be a good day to share them with you! Here you go: 1. The Bible is both a divine...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 01.03.2020 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Most weeks, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to my Weekday Meditation...

I've learned a few significant lessons over the course of the past twelve months. All of them seem to have been learned the hard way. The good news is that lessons learned the hard way are not soon forgotten. Here are four of the lessons I learned the hard way...

I enjoy sharing an article that brought a teaching or encouragement to my life and thought Saturdays might be a good day to share them with you! Today's Saturday Share is from my friend, Kitti Murray, Founder of Refuge Coffee in Clarkston, Georgia.Here you go: Maybe you’re like me. You know “Peace...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 12.27.2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Most weeks, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to my Weekday Meditation...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Most weeks, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to my Weekday Meditation Podcast, I encourage...

Why Churches Die by ACHUCKAllenI realize that I am in the "church industry" but haven't you ever wondered why some churches thrive and others seem to flounder, and over the course of time, die? Well, whether you've ever wondered that or not, here are my thoughts. Did you know that...

What's the Deal with the Wise Men? by AChuckAllenEvery Christmas we listen to "We three kings of orient are, bearing gifts we traverse afar. Field and fountain, moor and mountain, following yonder star." But who were these guys, really? They weren't kings and there were probably more than three. We associate three men with...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY October 25, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to my Weekday...

The Burden of Blight by A-ChuckAllen When humans exist in an elongated period of sorrow, loss, tragedy, or poverty, they can fall into a state known as human blight. It's that place where hope seems to have been gone forever and hurt seems to have taken up residence in the human...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY October 4, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

The Sermon Not Preached Sunday 9/29 by AChuckAllenIt was a perfectly beautiful Sunday, if it were the middle of July. Ninety degrees and a heat index adding another 10 degrees made for a challenging morning for an outside Worship Gathering. That's why this sermon wasn't taught. So, here you go...The...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY September 27, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

One Change I Would Make in My 50’s by A-ChuckAllenI'm closing in on 60 years old. YIKES! I remember thinking that 60 was really, really old. Now it seems like it's still really old. I am a pretty happy guy. I have a great job, a great marriage, six healthy...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY August 30, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY August 16, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY August 9, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

The Hatred of Mass Shootings by AChuckAllen It seems so incredibly terrible that we now have to think of an active shooter at every place that large groups gather. I am beyond greived that this is the new normal in America. This evil could happen anywhere in our country. There is no...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY August 2, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

This week's 4forFRIDAY July 26, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to...

4forFRIDAY July 19, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to my Weekday Meditation...

I've been attending church since I was an infant and I love the church. But if I took the risk to truly tell you how disenfranchised I have felt from the local church at seasons in my life, you might call into question my calling to serve the church as...

4forFRIDAY July 12, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for joining me on my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment. Thanks Again! If you don’t already subscribe to my Weekday Meditation...

These Are Superpowers by ACHUCKAllenI grabbed a Delta jet to my hometown, Daytona Beach, Florida Sunday afternoon to officiate a friend's son's wedding. It was a rainy afternoon with thunderstorms strong enough to sweep the beach of every vacationing family. I thought that we would definitely be having an indoor...

AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY July 5, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to my 4forFRIDAY BLOG. Each week, the 4forFRIDAY offers recommended Reads, Listens, Learnings and Reviews, simply for your enjoyment.This week's 4forFRIDAY has a bonus review, so I guess...

Here Comes the Judge by AChuckAllen To judge means: to separate, to pick out, select, choose. By implication, it means to condemn, punish—avenge, conclude. Our culture often uses Jesus' words in Matthew chapter seven ("Do not judge, or you too will be judged.") to promote a tolerance that often encourages acceptance of...

AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY June 28, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. This week's 4forFRIDAY offers a couple of films, a restaurant review and a couple of reads. You can probably tell that I have spent...

UP ON A TIGHT WIRE by ACHUCKAllenAlong with thousands of folks in New York's Time's Square, I watched the brother & sister team walk a tight wire, 200 feet over the busiest intersection in America Sunday evening. They started on opposite ends of the same wire and actually met in...

MORE MEANDERING THOUGHTS FROM 35,000 FEET Okay, so I went off the map a bit last week with my musings from the transatlantic flight experiences and thought I might try to redeem myself from the return series of flights. Ahhh, who am I kidding, there is no returning from my escipades at...

AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY June 21, 2019 I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. A Very Interesting Podcast: Tim Storey; The Heart and Soul of a Comeback Its not light listening, nut great content. Buckle up before you listen. In...

Life is itself a paradox. A paradox is a statement or problem that either appears to produce two entirely contradictory (yet possible) outcomes, or provides proof for something that goes against what we intuitively expect. Paradoxes have been a central part of philosophical thinking for centuries, and are always ready...

Have you ever said, or heard it said of someone from another country, "If they are going to live here, they should learn to speak English?" Every time that I travel abroad, I'm reminded of how silly that statement sounds. I've been in Spain since last Thursday and I'm amazed at how...

The following is from a You Version Bible Reading Plan. I've posted the link at the end of today's Saturday Share. There is no shortage of DNA tests on the market that promise to tell us about our family history and genetic makeup. They reinforce a universal truth: like it or...

AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY June 14, 2019I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. A Really Good Movie: Saint JudyJenny and I really enjoyed this film about an immigration attorney in Los Angeles. It's timely and intense story. The...

RANDOM THOUGHTS from 35,000 feet. When you have an eight and a half hour flight, a lot of things run through your brain. Not useful things, just random things. Knowing you couldn't wait to read my worthless thoughts while crossing the Atlantic, I thought I'd share them on today's BLOG. You...

Whether you are an introvert, an extrovert, a people person or a social outcast, one thing I know to be true...We are built to do this life together. God Himself placed this into His creation. He said, "Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us." Emphasis...

I recently had a string of poor verbal choices, caused a few relationships to go south and then got defensive while being called on it. It was an altogether challenging month. I wish that I could say that somebody else was at fault or that someone else was really at...

There are so many things yet to be learned. There are so many experiences yet to realize. There are so many dreams still unfulfilled that I cannot stop now! In my fifth decade of life I've learned more lessons that I ever thought possible. I've distilled the lengthy list down...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY June 7, 2019 A Really Good Article from James Clear: 5 Common Mistakes That Cause New Habits to FailDepending on where you get your numbers, somewhere between 81...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY May 31, 2019 A Really Good Read: The Miracle Equation: The Two Decisions That Move Your Biggest Goals from Possible, to Probable, to Inevitable by Hal ElrodEven after...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY 05-24-2019 A Really Good Read: The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life by David Brooks#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Everybody tells you to live for...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY 05-10-2019 A Really Good Audiobook: The Outpost by Jake TapperThis isn't Little House on the Prairie. The Outpost is gritty, gruesome and tough to listen to at times....

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY 05-03-2019 Rocket Fuel by Gino WickmanThis is a great business and emotional intelligence read. I think you'll love it. My friend, Rick Forbus introduced me to the book...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY 04-26-2019 A Really Great Read: How to Worship a King by Zach Neese Worship is more than music. It is the impetus for everything we do as Christians.  It...

Sorry for the mess up. I somehow scheduled last week's 4forFRIDAY to deliver today...again. I'm sorry for the confusion, but here is the new 4forFRIDAY for April 12, 2019. I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s...

I read this article on crossway.org by William Smith and had to share it with you. Dad, this is for you! Enjoy... Forming a Sense of Self Fathers, what you say to your daughter is crucial to her development because you fill two roles in her life simultaneously. As an...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY 04-05-2019 A Really Good Read: The Way of the Warrior I love the writings of Erwin McManus. This dude pastors an incredible church in LosAngeles and has helped shape...

Ten Reasons Easter Matters Today by AChuckAllenI'm a local church pastor. As a result, I am already enclined to spiritual matters. But this season leading up to Easter is a special and a holy journey. I didn't grow up with Lent or Ash Wednesday. I didn't grow up with Good...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. AChuck’s 4forFRIDAY 03-29-2019 A Really Great Read: Line of Sight by Mike Maden/Tom Clancy If you like a little intrigue and a few people getting shot, then this series of...

Weekday Meditation by AChuckAllen A few years ago I was struggling with my emotional health and struggling greatly with my faith life. I had always avoided anything that seemed remotely new age or even charismatic. I was challenged to consider meditation and laughed at the thought. Me, Chuck Allen, there was...

Charting a Better Course by ACHUCKAllenI know it’s not just me! I feel like every person I chat with is trying to find a better way or a simpler course as we navigate this new and odd world we live in. My counseling sessions seem a bit more desperate. Families...

Five Lessons Learned in London by ACHUCKAllen I love London! It had been more than twenty-five years since I was last in that great city. Like most parts of the westernized world, there had been plenty of changes. But there is still so much history in the city. Here are five...

Four Lessons from Amsterdam, by ACHUCKAllenI recently spent a few days in Amsterdam with Jenny, Samantha and Abby. While there, we were able to spend some quality time with our oldest daughter, Amy, her husband Ben and our grandsons, William, Ford and Bo. It was a quick trip that also...

Hold On to Your Emotions-You're better than that! By ACHUCKAllen Hold On to Your Emotions By ACHUCKAllen I'M SO ANGRY!! It was a perfect storm. I’d gone hard at work trying to fit two weeks into three days. Attempting to get out of the country and keep some degree of sanity for your return is not...

College Cheaters by ACHUCKAllen Seriously! Already wealthy parents that have been paying massive amounts of money to bribe and cheat the system to get their kids into elite colleges is just insane. As if we didn't know that this world was a mess, we discover that the Justice Department is having to...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. This week's 4forFRIDAY includes a great read, a great slice of pizza, a really good film, and a Amazon Original Series that I am enjoying. A Chuck's 4forFRIDAY 03-08-2019 A...

A Nation of Haters by AChuckALLEN I read the following statistics in one of my favorite newsletters from Dr. Jim Denison. In the stats, one significant truth leaps off of the page. That stat? That we are nation that is not only radically divided, but we are a country that is...

I love to share good reads, learnings, listens and reviews with friends and followers. So, thanks for subscribing to me 4forFRIDAY BLOG. This week's 4forFRIDAY includes a great read, a fun date night, a solid dinner spot and a great new study Bible that I am enjoying. A Chuck's 4forFRIDAY 02-22-2019A...

4forFRIDAY is a weekly collection of recommended books, albums, podcasts, gadgets, sermons, resources or reviews. Thanks for subscribing and thanks for sharing. Here is this week's recommended reads, listens, learnings and reviews. Please let me know what your thoughts are and what you agree or disagree with. I love hearing...

Two Lessons Learned Already in 2019 by AChuckAllen It's not even February and I've already had two big AHA's in 2019. There seem to be seasons in our life that we are more pliable and more teachable than other seasons. I'm in one of those these seasons. And I am so glad....

4forFRIDAY It’s been a long time, But I’m back and better than ever. For many weeks, I provided you with practical suggestions for READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS and REVIEWS. Today is the first 4forFRIDAY that I’ve published in several weeks, but thanks for welcoming me back. Here are this week’s 4forFRIDAY suggestions for...

Thanks for joining me for this week's 4forFRIDAY recommendations of reads, listens, learnings and reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY, November 16, 2018 ENJOY! A Solid Listen for the History Buff: Killing the SS by Bill O'Reilly (Audiobook) It's painful and fascinating at the same time. O'reilly reads his own book on the...

When you choose to be a lifelong learner, you seem to find lessons everywhere you turn. The 50's have been a decade of learning and unlearning for me. I've seen unbelievable highs and I've experienced gut-wrenching lows. In every state of emotion, health, capacity or place, I have learned more...

I hear a similar sentiment from families, individuals and kids. I hear it from old folks, young folks, green folks and purple folks. What is it that I hear? I hear people say this, "I go to church, but we keep looking for a really good church." Being the pastor of...

Sorry for the lapse of my 4forFRIDAY recommendations of reads, listens, learnings and reviews. I've been overwhelmed with another project and anxious to share it with you right after the holidays. Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY, November 9, 2018 ENJOY! A Great Read: Standing Strong: How to Storm-Proof Your Life by Charles...

It's just crazy. Seriously...It's crazy out there. FB Post a flag and get swallowed up in a debate about rights and Nike ads. FB Post a note about concern over families at the southern border and you are awash in a political debate about a wall. FB a post about how black lives...

4forFRIDAY October 4, 2018Most Friday’s I enjoyed sharing at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY! Enjoy A Great Listen from Audible: Overcoming the Seven Greatest Challenges That No One Expects and Everyone Experiences by Carey Nieuwhof I loved this book! Carey Nieuwhof wants to help you avoid...

Somewhere along our journey, we all have said "I Quit" at some point. Today, I quit a few things that I should have quit a long time ago. Here they are, 10 things that I am quitting: I quit trying to compare my life to others. It always ends poorly. I quit...

4forFRIDAY September 21, 2018 Most Friday’s I enjoyed sharing at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY! Enjoy A Great Read and a Great Study: Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado I loved this book! When it comes to anxiety, depression, and stress-related illnesses, America is the...

4forFRIDAY September 14, 2018 Most Friday’s I enjoyed sharing at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY! Enjoy A Really Good Read: The God Impulse by Jack Alexander I loved this book! For Jesus, truth and mercy went hand in hand. Where he preached he also healed....

4forFRIDAY September 7, 2018 Most Friday’s I enjoyed sharing at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY! Enjoy A Really Good Read: Liking Jesus by Craig Groeschel In Liking Jesus, a timely and life-changing book, New York Times bestselling author and pastor of Life.Church Craig Groeschel helps...

I've tried to avoid the television coverage regarding the confirmation hearing s of the proposed Supreme Court Justice, Brett Kavanaugh. I've tried to avoid both sides of the political aisle, both sides of the American system of grandstanding and both sides of complete rubbish we call news. However, I made...

I suppose that we all have things that we regret in our life. In my life, like many of yours, I feel as though I've had my fair share of heartache, heartbreak and also my share of joyous moments, huge wins and blissful travels. That only leaves a few things...

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is Here! Just for fun, I'll throw out my picks of the week, an upset of the week and a homer of the week, which is always the DAWGS! Here is your Pastor's Pigskin Picks for the First Weekend of College Football. September 1-3, 2018. Auburn...

4forFRIDAY August 31, 2018 Most Friday’s I enjoyed sharing at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY! Enjoy A Great Article that's Super Helpful from Steven Guise: 4 Life Rules Worth Having Rules are only worth having if they protect or benefit you. Here are some rules...

After years of ministry leadership, I finally answered the call to serve as the Lead Pastor at Sugar Hill Church 7 years ago. I've learned a ton over that time period, but here are the 7 that have had a significant impact and change in my life: If you've been asked...

I read the following as a result of catching up with an old friend last week. I was moved by these power-packed words and trust that you will be as well. A link to the author's book is found later in this article We live in a world full of people...

4forFRIDAY August 24, 2018Most Friday's I enjoyed sharing at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY! Enjoy A Bible That I Totally Love! The Swindoll Study Bible New Living Translation If you are looking to gift a Bible or start over with a new Bible, you...

Most Fridays I enjoy sharing at least four learns, listens, learning, gadget or reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY August 17, 2018. Feel free to give me some feedback or suggest one of your favorites HERE. The Bravest You: Five Steps to Fight Your Biggest Fears, Find Your Passion, and Unlock Your...

It seems to be the week to ask that question. I've asked that question and I've been asked countless times, where was God when...? I made a visit to the home of a staff family today. On July 4, Johan Munoz fell from a ladder in a freakish accident and was...

If I could go back to my life at about 30 years old, I would make several decisions with a great deal more thought, counsel and wisdom. But I know that I, without any doubt, would change the three things listed below. I wonder what might have become of me,...

I've learned that there are times when the single best thought I have to share with the world are the lyrics of a song that I cannot get out of my head. Especially when every insecurity that you have is firing every bullet at you at supersonic speed. Maybe you don't...

For more than two and 1/2 years I've been encouraging folks to get grateful in their everyday lives. That timeline is directly connected to the season that has reshaped my belief systems, my hopes, dreams and heartaches. I'm so committed to gratitude that it has impacted every interaction in my personal,...

Most Saturdays, I enjoy sharing another author's article, book or blog. This week's Saturday Share is from Robin Williams. I think this might challenge many of us that are giving 60+ hours of work or more. Have a Great Saturday, AChuck   Why You Cannot Ignore Your Fatigue Symptom & How to...

Most Saturday's I enjoy sharing an article or BLOG from another author. If you've been around my BLOG for more than a few weeks, you'll know that I'm a huge fan of James Clear and his writing. This week's Saturday Share is a new article from James Clear. It's worth...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen Most Fridays I enjoy sharing at least four learns, listens, learning, gadget or reviews. Here is this week’s 4forFRIDAY August 3, 2018. Feel free to give me some feedback or suggest one of your favorites HERE. A Really Fun Read: The President is Missing I need to read something that doesn't...

NORMAL by ACHUCKAllen I've been saying for years that if we could find 200 people that would love God with all their heart, mind and soul - AND - be normal, we could change the world! I truly believe that. Don't you know Christian folks that are so concerned with following the...

Gotta Have Faith by ACHUCKAllen --- Am I the only one that just heard the late George Michael singing the title to today's blog? Man, I hope not. Well, regardless of George, it's a true statement. You've got to have faith! In spite of the fact that I am a huge fan...

Becoming by ACHUCKAllen There are folks in this world that are done! I'm talking about truly, done. In their heart and mind, they have learned everything they need to learn. They've served all they can serve. They've given all they can give. But that's not true! I have lived long enough to...

Saturday Share with ACHUCKAllen The patience of Job; the patience of a saint; a “fruit of the Holy Spirit”; a virtue. “He that have Patience, can have what he will,” predicted Poor Richard’s Almanack way back in 1736. As you might expect from that august build up, a lack of patience has...

This Week's 4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen Most Fridays I enjoy sharing at least four learns, listens, learning, gadget or reviews. Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY July 27, 2018. Feel free to give me some feedback or suggest one of your favorites HERE. A Really Awesome Read: Life Without Lack: Living in the Fullness...

Go in Peace by ACHUCKAllen Every Sunday, I leave our worship gatherings, with a blessing. Over the years, folks have asked me to write it down and send them this simple blessing. Here you go...and then some: "Let the Lord go ahead of you and make a way, make your crooked...

Thank You by AChuckAllen If I could encourage you to do one thing that I know would radically change your life, would you want to know about it? I would. If somebody could offer one simple thing that would radically improve my life, I'd at least try it. Please trust me and...

Guts, by ACHUCKAllen We tend to use the term GUTS when referring to an athlete, business leader or maybe even a politician. But I've watched people endure horrific, Job-like pain in this life that would crush those same athletes, leaders or politicians. I've watched a marriage collapse as a spouse has been...

God Told You to Tell Me What? By ACHUCKAllen A few Sunday's ago, I was preaching in a great church in Tennessee. I had something happen that I've never seen in 30 years of ministry and something that seems to happen more than I'd prefer. First, let's talk about something I've never...

Most Saturday's I enjoy sharing another author's work. This week, I couldn't wait to share JAMES CLEAR'S article, This is the Greatest Weightlifting Lesson I’ve Learnedby James Clear Read this on JamesClear.com You’ll never walk into the gym and hear someone say, “You should do something easy today.” But after 10 years of training,...

Most Fridays, I enjoy sharing at least four reads, listens, learnings, reviews or gadgets that I have enjoyed or learned from. They aren't always faith-based, but they are always good recommendations. Here is this weeks 4forFRIDAY for Friday July 20, 2018. A Really Good Read: PEAK PERFORMANCE by Brad Stulberge &...

Jenny and I have been enjoying New England over the past week. We started with $39 fares from Atlanta to Boston and headed to Bar Harbor, Maine. Bar Harbor is truly one of the most beautiful places that I've ever seen. We left Bar Harbor and visited the small town...

Most Saturdays I enjoy sharing another authors article or BLOG. this week's Saturday Share is from Tanvir Zafar. I first read the article on LifeHack.com. Here is this Week's Saturday Share: We’ve all got our enemies; people who take pleasure in causing us pain and misery. Sometimes, the development of an...

Most Fridays, I enjoy sharing at least four really good reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Several hundred of you guiys read this and many of you give me a little feedback, especially about suggested restaurants. Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY June14, 2018 A Really, Great Read: Washington on Leadership by Richard Brookhiser I...

Jenny and I have been in Bar Harbor, Maine the last few days and have loved it. On a sunset cruise on a sailboat, we found ourselves sitting next to and older couple that seemed nice, but a good bit older than us. If you know me, you know that...

Day 3 of 6 Days Of Civility by ACHUCKAllen A lot of folks have jumped on board this effort to live this week in the peace that comes from civility. Thanks so much! As for me, I have to remind myself that living a life of civility is truly an effort. I'm not...

Day 2 of 6 Days of Civility by ACHUCKAllen The dictionary defines civility as "Formal politeness and courtesy in behavior or speech." Over the ages, some great thinkers have considered it one of the stalwarts of human society. But in 2018,  has the Internet and the 24-hour news cycle rendered this...

Six Days of Civility by ACHUCKAllen I invited the folks of Sugar Hill Church to join me over the next six days in three things: Meditate on the 34th Psalm each day (evening or morning) You can read the 34th Psalm by clicking HERE. The big picture is to set your soul...

Civility by ACHUCKAllen Our world is changing at the speed of light! I see change as a good thing most of the time, but I've drawn the line when it comes to the ridiculous lack of civility in this grand American experiment. There are a lot of cultural variances in what is...

Saturday Share with ACHUCKAllen Most Saturday's I enjoy sharing another author's work. I read and consume a massive amount of data. I truly believe that when you stop learning, you surrender your right to lead! Here is this Saturday's Share from Leon Cho, the founder of LifeHack. Hi! Today, I’d like to take...

Kindness Starts with One by ACHUCKAllen Have you ever thought that no good deed goes unpunished? Me too. I've heard that phrase for years. Every time someone does some act of kindness and the return on that kindness is less than anticipated, the phrase comes running out of their mouth..." no...

Like most of you, I'll take today away from work. I'll probably throw some burgers in the grill, have fun with my family and enjoy the freedom that has been handed to me as a result of the brave men and women that have faithfully served in the line...

Saturday Share with ACHUCKAllen Most Saturdays, I enjoy sharing another authors work. Today is a great example for all of us to learn from. The intent behind Cary Scmidt's article isn't really about productivity, but rather about getting quality learning, discipleship and meditation into your life. I think that you'll enjoy this...

4forFRIDAY May 18, 2018 Most Fridays I enjoy unpacking at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets, or reviews. 4forFRIDAY is back and better than ever! My suggestions aren’t limited to items of the church or faith. They are simply a collection of items that I’ve enjoyed and thought that you...

I shared a guest blog yesterday by Terry Hershey. Today, I'd like to share another guest, Jenny Marchal. Today's blog from Jenny gives us all the challenge of reconnecting by seperating our lives from digital addiction. I need this, and I'll bet you do as well. How I Disconnected from...

I was turned on to the writings of Terry Hershey by a friend and love how he conveys peace with a lilt of sacred Sabbath understanding. I encourage you to read his blog from today (below) and frequent his site at Terry Hershey.com The Sunday-school teacher asked her 10-year-old students if...

Most Saturday's I enjoy sharing another author's article or BLOG. Today's guest is Dr. Scott Rodin. I think this might challenge many of our frustrations with the world we live in. Thanks for joining me! Who Can’t God Redeem? By Scott Rodin Last night we saw the new movie, “I Can Only...

4forFRIDAY May 4, 2018 It's Back! I've missed unpacking at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets, or reviews. 4forFRIDAY is back and better than ever! My suggestions aren't limited to items of the church or faith. They are simply a collection of items that I've enjoyed and thought that you...

I've seen the silliness of parading politicians, preachers, prophets, and musicians in a show of prayer, up close. That's not the spirit of the National Day of Prayer. I don't think the show is what this day represents. I think that we the people are to pray for our homes,...

Dealing with Haters by ACHUCKAllen Every human on the planet has a few haters. The more that you attempt, the greater the number of haters. That equation always ends with the same result - The only way to have no haters is to never attempt to do anything - especially lead...

Have you ever sensed that God might be nudging you a bit to do something out of the ordinary, but you just can't quite wrap your head around it? Me too. I think that the Divine often sends us really clear direction, with elementary instructions and we turn our switch on...

Most Saturday's, I enjoy sharing another author's work. This week's author is Rick Warren. Enjoy! “The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT). The Bible tells us three things about the importance of faith. 1. God...

Heaven's Waiting Room by ACHUCKAllen I get asked about Heaven regularly. I'm asked about Heaven at every memorial service or funeral, especially as I plan a service with a family. Most of the questions about Heaven are focused on the wants and desires of the party asking. I hear things like,...

Beaten: By ACHUCKAllen I've been beaten like a yard dog at times in my life, haven't you? I don't mean physically, I mean something far worse. I'm talking about getting your soul pummeled like this poor dud in the photo. Maybe you have been fortunate to have never had your soul whipped...

WORDS that MATTER by ACHUCKAllen Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me - said no adult, ever! Words are powerful. Powerful enough to move waring countries to peace and peaceful countries to war. They are powerful enough to cause our dreams to be shattered and enough to...

If You're Happy and You Know It by ACHUCKAllen Do you remember singing that song as a kid? Man, it could go on for days, but the whole song was great. Although it might have been a question, it was quite a deliberate order. It said IF YOU ARE HAPPY, DO...

I Can Only Imagine by ACHUCKAllen The first time that I heard Mercy Me's breakout triple platinum song was at a little boy's funeral. Just two weeks prior to that, I'd been asked to come and anoint little Carter Martin with oil and pray for him in the Children's Healthcare cancer ward. This kid...

You Can Do This by AChuckAllenHey there! I'm back after a two week break from writing. I've been working on a very exciting project and had just a few things going on over the Easter season. What would you do if you knew you wouldn't fail? What might you attempt...

Join me tonight for a very special Guides Online Communion. It started at 6:30pm today, Mandy Thursday, and will run every half-hour thru midnight. All you need is bread or crackers and any type of juice or wine. Then CLICK HERE --AChuck

Welcome to this Week's Saturday Share. Most Saturday's I enjoy sharing another author's work. If the article or BLOG has enlightened or encouraged me in some way, I share it in the hope that it might be an encouragement in your life as well. Dallas Willard was once asked, “Why...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen  -  March 16, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! A Book...

We all have some degree of clutter in our lives. Some of us have red-zone, Def-Con 5 degrees of clutter in our life. You know what I'm talking about, right? The clutter of stuff that wallows around in our lives left unresolved or worse, continually hidden. Yesterday's BLOG was focused on...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen  March 9, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you!   A Fun Afternoon of...

IF YOU WANT A GREAT DAY by ACHUCKAllen We've all had "those days." You know what I'm talking about. The days that you feel like everything just explodes on you with the foul stench of negativity. The kind of day when you aren't sure why, but you just can't get over the...

A few of life's greatest questions: Why should I give? Why should I serve? Why should I sacrifice? Why should I volunteer? These loaded questions should be pretty simple to answer. Yet somehow they seem to be lacking in our lives. WHY isn't clear any longer when it comes to things...

11 Lessons in 11 Years with Jenny by ACHUCKAllen I was a widower, a single dad and a ministry leader that traveled most weeks Monday thru Thursday. What in the world was I to do? I mean, a single dad is tough, a widower at age 47 was tougher and to do...

Billy Graham & The Oscars by AChuckAllen Last night, Jenny and I were watching a special on the Life of Billy Graham. I was so moved by the legacy that he has left. I saw footage of him in communist countries proclaiming Jesus as Savior. I saw him in poor countries...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen  March 2, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! This week I'm offering...

Life in a Tweet by AChuckAllenIf you were to tell your life's story in a Tweet, what you carve out of 140 characters? Seriously, when I tried this, I was shocked at how difficult it would be. You might be thinking, why do this exercise at all? Because this life does count...

The Fat Battle is Real by AChuckAllen Seriously, I've been fighting fat for more than 40 years! For 90% of those years I lost the skirmish, the battle and the war! I have, over the course of four decades, lost the equivalent of a few boy bands in weight. And then...

I read something a few weeks ago that caught my attention. The title of the article was "Pastor, Are You Too Transparent?" I clicked on it and read the article. The gist of the author's writing seemed a bit jaded, but it was presented well. The punchline of the article is...

Saturday Share with ACHUCKAllen Most Saturdays I enjoy sharing another author's work. Typically, It is something I ran across as I was seeking to study, sharpen, or develop in my life. Other times, It's just a good read. This week's Saturday Share comes from Minda Zetlin. Her article was published in...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen February 23, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

Finish that title...Hold on to that feeling! Sorry for the Journey reference. Have you ever wondered how some people seem to always have their act together? Me too. I thought I would go on a treasure hunt several weeks ago, and I think I have discovered a few commonalities. Please...

HOW NOW SHALL WE LIVE by AChuckAllenI read a book by that title years ago. It was written by Chuck Colson. At the time that I read it, I had a difficult time trying to wrap my pride-filled soul around his thesis. At 58 and experiencing some of the worst...

Most Saturday’s, I enjoy sharing another author’s work. This week, I’m sharing a great article: This 1 Simple Exercise Will Change How You Handle Toxic People - How to avoid the 1 mistake everyone makes in dealing with difficult people. By Adele Cehrs Here’s This Week’s SATURDAY SHARE:  A big idea. A thirst for freedom. The...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen February 9, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

10 Ways to Ace Valentines Day by ACHUCKAllen Most of us need tutorials in the way of expressing our love and dare I actually say feelings? We all have them and we all struggle to manage them! Here are a few ways that you can get on the autobahn of love...

We Need to Grow Up by ACHUCKAllen Are you as disgusted with Washington DC as I am? I read, or watch news that has long ceased to be news for years now. And before you Trump haters or Trump lovers start warming up your fingers to blast away, just give me...

How Super Bowl I - LII Was Won by ACHUCKAllen As I am writing this, I have no idea who actually won this most American spectacle. I'm 58 years old, which means that I have seen every Super Bowl, Including Super Bowl I. I remember watching with my dad on our...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen February 2, 2018Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

I'll bet that you have had your feelings wounded at some point in your life. I have. I know guys aren't supposed to admit such trivial matters, but after a few decades of ministry, I've learned that having feelings, ego, or pride hurt is more brutal on men than women....

Have you ever felt like it was you verses the universe? Me too. But here's the thing, this universe isn't fighting against you! For the universe to be opposed to you, the creator of the universe would have to be against you.I've experienced deep, life-altering sorrow in many years. I've...

I’ve been in ministry for 30 years. I’ve served some great people and some great churches. I was asked a few weeks ago, “what kind of church would you like to attend?” I thought about my answer and gave more thought to it , over the course of a few...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen January 26, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen January 19, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

MY TEN COMMANDMENTS by AChuckAllen Okay, I thought I would finish my second 5 of MY Ten Commandments and couldn't resist one more Charlton Heston pic. When I posted two days ago the first half of MY 10 Commandments, I received a good deal of interest in this concept. If you...

Sorry - I couldn't resist a Charlton Heston Ten Commandment Pic! And for those of you that are already offended, please just stop here. My Ten Commandments by AChuckAllen I was listening to one of my favorite speakers and authors the other day when she tells the story of her live interview...

Keep Your Eyes on Your Own Paper by ACHUCKAllen Seventh grade is an awkward, weirded out age man. I mean, your hormones are going crazy, girls are totally overwhelming - especially Kim Rice. O my stars. As much as a seventh-grade boy could be in love...I had fallen head over heels...

Thanks for joining me for this week's Saturday Share! THE NORMAL PERSON’S GUIDE TO NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS: SPENDING LESS AND SAVING MORE BY ADAM ELDER Advice from an accountant for professional athletes, a guy who got himself out of $100,000 in debt and more. Nearly half of all Americans spend their entire...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen January 12, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

THE ASSUMPTION OF CERTAINTY by ACHUCKAllen Have you ever been around someone that is always right? Or maybe you have been around someone that always has a better story, a bigger wallet, the best technology, or even the overwhelming certainty that you don't know nearly as much as they do? Me...

THE AFFAIR YOU JUSTIFY by ACHUCKAllenI counsel with a lot of couples attempting to help salvage their marriage. It's not really part of the job, but after two marriages equaling more than 37 years, blending two families with 6 daughters, it's seems to find me. On far too many occasions,...

That was an unbelievably great ballgame. The Dawgs were so close. It's gut-wrenchingly painful. I think we will be back on that stage again. If you had told me on Labor Day that UGA would take Bama to overtime for the Natty, I'd have thought you were crazy. What a magical season for Kirby and...

5 Ways to Experience Family Devotions by AChuckAllen As a parent and a grandparent, I've had my fair share of seasons that I wondered if I could be any worse as a parent. Now that all of our girls are "grown-ups," I still occasionally wonder if I did everything that I...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen January 5, 2018 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

I love to discover great quotes. Here are five of my favorites. "Goals. There’s no telling what you can do when you get inspired by them. There’s no telling what you can do when you believe in them. And there’s no telling what will happen when you act upon them.” --Jim...

Get in a Rut! And Stay There, by ACHUCKAllen It seems so backward. We often think that ruts are something we are supposed to get out of. What if we were to get in the right rut and constantly improve that rut as we continue to develop and mature? I find that...

WHAT I LEARNED FLY FISHING By AChuckAllenI've been fishing in almost every way but fly fishing. Saturday was the first of what I trust will be many trips to the river to catch North Georgia trout. I had the best possible instructor in Parks Davis. He's the father of my...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen December 29, 2017 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

I Wish I Would Have by: ACHUCKAllenHave you ever looked back at a season, like Christmas and thought about all of the things that you wished that you had done? I'm probably odd in that way (and plenty of other ways), but I look back on seasons or special days...

I realize that not everyone has the internal drive to challenge themselves with some big-time goals for 2018. I'm a goal oriented leader that is greatly motivated by setting and achieving goals. If you are a seasoned goal achiever or a never been a goal believer, I really hope this...

This has been a challenging season in so many ways for me. But as the dust settles on Christmas 2017, I have discovered two lessons that this dude really needs to remember throughout the year. I am a man flooded with blessings. While I have made strides in my desire...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. Here are my BOWL PICKS for Saturday, December 23 - January 1,  2018. Birmingham Bowl South Florida over Texas Tech Armed Forces Bowl San Diego State over Army Dollar General Bowl Appalachian State over Toledo Hawaii Bowl Houston over Fresno State Zaxby's Heart of Dallas Bowl Utah over West Virginia Quick Lane Bowl Northern...

Most Saturdays I like to share another author's work with you. If you've been on my BLOG for more than a few weeks, you know that I am a huge Stephen Guise fan. This week's Saturday Share is one of Guise's best, Take a read and see what part of...

4forFRIDAY by ACHUCKAllen December 22, 2017Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel...

Lessons from Yesterday Part 2 by ACHUCKAllen Okay, part two. I think y'all like it when I have more creative titles, but I'm pooped and the creativity is running a bit low tonight - SORRY! Wednesday was an amazing morning delivering some 300 gifts to children through 11 different public schools, then a meeting preparing to...

What I Learned Yesterday by ACHUCKAllen Tuesday was a long day and an interesting day. I learned three things that seem like a big deal, but they might have just been a blur in the midst of a hectic season. But just in case I actually learned a few things, I...

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year. It is also a trying, brutal string of expectations that we often do not and can not meet. Over 37 years of marriage, extended family drama and heartache deep enough to bury me alive, I've learned many things about what Christmas can...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to leave your comments...

Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas! Every time I hear that I think about the Salvation Army folks at the doors of the mall or WalMart. I think these folks are so generous with their time and it causes me to wonder about my giving of myself and my resources during...

I've been in plenty of seasons when it felt like there was no way out of a difficult challenge. I'll bet that you have as well. Somehow I seem to exacerbate the problem with my worry wort tendencies, anxious insecurities, and overall "poor, poor pitiful me attitude." The thing is that this...

Okay, before you start slamming me on this one, read a bit further. I am confident that both sides of this aisle will have an equal and frustratingly logical conundrum when it comes to your kids, Santa Claus, and the Birth of Jesus. For parents that are all about that Santa thing...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another author’s article or BLOG. Each week, my chosen writing has blessed or challenged me in some way. So, Enjoy! Today, I am thrilled to share one of my favorite BLOGs, simplemarriage.net. In this piece, Dr. Corey Allan, PH.D.,  unpacks some great thoughts on marriage and contentment....

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is looking better every week at 46-27. Here are my picks for Championship Saturday - December 2, 2017. Clemson over Miami (pulling for Coach Richt's Canes, but they're not quite there) Ohio State over Wisconsin (in an upset) Central Florida over Memphis...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to leave your comments...

Anybody Else Need a Friend? By ACHUCKAllen This I know: True friends are hard to find. I'm not talking about acquaintances that you are cordial with or folks that are in your corner when you offer them something of value. I mean the kind of friends that you laugh with when life...

I can hear James Brown as I write this article. Ha! "Get Up Off of That Thing, Ha!" Need a little more to take you back to your high school dance? I'm here for ya! James Brown's Lyrics, circa 1976. "Get up offa that thing,  And dance 'till you feel better,  Get up offa that...

I've read so many books on marriage that I should be a champ by now. Well, that's not the case. I've taught enough marriage conferences that you'd think I was an expert - epic fail! I've been married to two very unique women over the course of 36 years and...

I love the holidays, but let's face it, they can suck the life out of you. Between the Hallmark Christmas Movies, the stores and ads portraying the wonder of the holidays, it's supposed to be a December to Remember...especially if you wake up on Christmas morning with a new Lexus...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is looking better every week at 43-24 Here are my picks for Saturday, November 25, 2017. Auburn over Alabama Tennessee  over Vanderbilt Michigan over Ohio State (in an upset) Georgia over The Insects Florida State over Florida Indiana over Perdue Happy Football Saturday! See you at Sugar Hill Church...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another author's article or BLOG. Each week, my chosen writing has blessed or challenged me in some way. So, Enjoy! Today, I am thrilled to share one of my favorite authors, James Clear. In this piece, Clear unpacks some great thoughts on productivity and time management....

Weekday Meditation with ACHUCKAllenCongratulations, you made it through the first stretch of the holidays. My 5 day MEDITATION has helped me and I pray that it has helped you as well. These past few days has sparked some interesting questions. Here are a few of them: "Why do you make such a...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to leave your comments...

Weekday Meditation Day 4 - Thanksgiving MeditationWhile it may be the most wonderful time of the year, it is also the most anxiety riddled season to boot. I want to encourage you, with great urgency, to take eight minutes and prioritize your life, starting with quietude, gratitude, Scripture, and prayer. I've...

It's day 3 of 5 days of our guided meditation. If you haven't participated yet, feel free to go back and start afresh with Days 1 & 2. I am so overwhelmingly confident that focusing our hearts, heads, and hands on the things that matter most, that I wanted to give you a...

WeekdayMeditation.com with ACHUCKAllen Today is Day 2 of my Thanksgiving Week Weekday Meditation Series. Each morning this week we will take less than ten minutes of a guided meditation time focusing on Gratitude, Scripture, Prayer, and Quietude. If I could give you the best advice to prepare for the Holidays, I would...

I was burned up and burned out. I was bitter, angry and frustrated. I was so entrenched in my ongoing selfish desires to achieve more, become somebody and to succeed in a huge way that I was literally slamming the door on all that the Divine had in store for...

Join me for a weekday meditation that is built to settle our heart, head and hands on what matters most. Focus - Gratitude - Scripture - Prayer all designed for you to thrive in this holiday season. WeekdayMeditation.com --AChuck

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is looking better every week at 40-21. Here are my picks for Saturday, November 18, 2017. Mississippi State over Arkansas Wisconsin over Michigan Pitt over Virginia Tech (in an upset) Georgia over Kentucky Vanderbilt over Missouri (in an upset) Texas over West Virginia (in an upset) Happy Football Saturday! See...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another authors work. It is always an article or blog that has encouraged or sharpened me in some way. I trust that it might do the same for you. Here is my Saturday Share for November 18, 2017 How to Form a New Habit (in 5 Easy Steps)...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to leave your comments...

There must be something about me and whatever vibe that I display that says to people, "please tell me what you really think about me!" I say that, because folks have always felt pretty comfortable giving me unasked for advice. I wish that I had a dollar for every time...

When was the first time that you walked through a mall and the fragrance of Cinnabon hit you right in the nose? I remember walking through Northlake Mall catching the smells of those unbelievably delicious, buttery, sweet, cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing. Can I get an amen? Did you...

It happens, doesn't it? Life can sneak up on you and in the time that it takes to order a cup of coffee you are awash with the sense that you cannot bear one more burden, one more sorrow, one more voice that needs your attention. I think I've been there...

Most people want to achieve some level of greatness. Some folks want great fame, others, great wealth. There are folks that seek great positions and others seek great celebrity. I know folks my that want to leave an imprint on their corner of the world and some that seek to...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is looking better every week at 38-17. Here are my picks for Saturday, November 11, 2017. NORTH CAROLINA STATE over BOSTON COLLEGE IOWA over WISCONSIN (upset alert) SOUTH CAROLINA over FLORIDA GEORGIA over AUBURN TENNESSEE over MISSOURI MIAMI over NOTRE DAME (upset...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another authors work. It is always an article or blog that has encouraged or sharpened me in some way. I trust that it might do the same for you. Here is my Saturday Share for November 20, 2017 3 Ways to Grow Through a Crisis By Jon...

I am convinced that we all have exams in our life that are graded as pass or fail. No grading on the curve. No B, C or D. Simply pass or fail  I have passed a few and failed plenty more. There are hundreds, maybe thousands of common exams, but I...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 11.10.17 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to...

When Your Marriage is Running on Fumes by AChuckAllen Let’s just state the obvious: Nobody says I Do, believing that they will someday say, I Don’t. There is a massive difference in pre-marital counseling and counseling through a marriage in crisis. I know you are thinking “no joke, Chuck. I’m so...

Like all of you, my heart is overwhelmed with the evil shootings at First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas. In a small, Mayberry-like town of 700 people, evil walked into the sanctuary. Even the Washington Post, not the most traditional or conservative voice in America got this statement right...

Four Marriage Landmines by AChuckAllen. Every marriage has some unique landmines that can cripple, or even destroy a once-healthy relationship. And every marriage shares some commonalities that seem so obvious, but are often stepped on and explode with fatal results. If we could only know what they are and where they...

I hear a lot of folks talk about needing to get their lives together. And, I have heard even more ask how to get their lives together. Let’s face it...this world isn’t for the faint of heart. Marriage and parenting are not easy. 80 hour work weeks, travel ball, debt, expectations,...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is looking better every week at 33-16.  Here are my picks for Saturday, November 4,  2017. AUBURN over TEXAS A&M WEST VIRGINIA over IOWA STATE KENTUCKY over OLE MISS  GEORGIA over SOUTH CAROLINA BAYLOR over KANSAS NORTHWESTERN over NEBRASKA Happy Football Saturday! See...

We have all had our heart broken. If you are the one human that has never experienced the stinging pain of a broken heart, you may need to check your pulse! From peeking to see what Santa had hidden for me in 3rd grade, to being humiliated as I lost everything...

I was about eight years old and Mom had reminded me that I couldn’t touch the cool stuff in my uncle’s study. I didn’t know him at all, but he was my Mom’s brother and he lived in the country, so what could possibly go wrong? I could! I could go...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is looking better every week at 27-15. Here are my picks for Saturday, October 28, 2017. OHIO STATE over PENN STATE MIAMI over NORTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE over KENTUCKY  GEORGIA  over FLORIDA SOUTH CAROLINA over VANDERBILT NOTRE DAME over NC STATE Happy Football...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another writers material. I share it because it has sharpened or encouraged me. I trust that it will do the same for you! Here is today's Saturday Share: Words Matter: Recovering Godly Speech in a Culture of Profanity by John Payne A few years ago, while on sabbatical,...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 10.27.17 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to...

BUT WHY, by AChuckAllen The picture above is of my second grandson, Ford Landis. This little dude is super cool and has captured my heart. He has a way of asking the same question...ABOUT EVERYTHING! That question - "But Why?" One thing that can drastically improve our relationships, our leadership, and our...

I think we all want to be better at whatever we are, or want to be. I've never met anybody that woke up, looked in the mirror and stated, "I am so glad that I am mediocre." I tend to wake up each morning and immediately start cranking out thoughts...

Stress and Anxiety - I hear about it all the time and I feel it's effects regularly.  I have admitted that I am often stressed and worried. I have also admitted that I can be drawn into a stress-induced funk that can lead me to a state of depression. I have...

I am honored to meet with a lot of folks that are seeking help with their marriage, or their kids, or addictions, or any number of personal challenges. I hear and see some of the most interesting challenges in my office week after week. Every situation requires moving forward with the...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another author’s content. It is always something that has challenged or encouraged me. I hope you will enjoy today’s Saturday Share from James Clear. I am constantly searching for a better way to personal productivity, time, energy and goal management. I think you’ll join me as...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is looking better every week at 22-14. Here are my picks for Saturday, October 21, 2017. LSU over OLE MISS Miami over Syracuse Michigan State over Indiana Auburn  over Arkansas Penn State over Michigan Texas over Oklahoma State in an Upset of the Week Happy Football Saturday! See you at Sugar Hill Church tomorrow at 9:30...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 10.20.17 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to...

I want my life to count! I know that I’m not alone in that desire, but why is it something that seems so unattainable? We all seem to reach an age where significance overwhelms our youthful desire for success. Or maybe it’s just my stage of life. I turned 58 last...

Because it's the right thing to do, that's why! I'll bet you've heard or said that a few dozen times in your life. I recall on most Sunday afternoons, my Mom telling me that I needed to go back to church for RA's, or kids choir because it was the right thing...

I was asked a few weeks ago what I thought my greatest challenge was in the coming years? Naturally, I was being asked this question by a young guy that had probably assumed that at my advanced age of 58, I might answer with some wise, sage-like answer that could...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. My season record is barely over the midline at 17-13. Here are my picks for Saturday, October 14, 2017. Auburn over LSU Georgia over Missouri Oklahoma over Texas Miami  over Georgia Tech South Carolina over Tennessee Michigan over Indiana Happy Football Saturday! See you at Sugar Hill Church tomorrow at 9:30 am, 11:00 am or...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another author's content. It is always something that has challenged or encouraged me. I hope you will enjoy today's Saturday Share from James Clear. I am constantly searching for a better way to personal productivity, time, energy and goal management. I think you'll join me as...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 10.13.17 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to...

I've learned a few things about marriage over the past 38 years. I've learned that when it's good, the rest of your life is good - And when it's bad, the rest of your life is even worse. Nobody ever says "I do," thinking someday "I won't." I've been married for...

I sure wish that I could have a "do-over" when it comes to raising teenagers...specifically high schoolers. Now that all of our girls are out of the house, I've really thought about what I would have done differently if I knew then what I know now. Many of you know that...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 10.05.17 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to...

If I Only Had Time by ACHUCKAllen It's the cry of every person attempting to change the world, in their own way. Ask most anybody how they are doing and you'll hear some variation of, "man I'm busy!" My calendar is booked with appointments, weddings, speaking engagements, church work, counseling appointments,...

Like you, I am grieved and in shock over the horrific shooting in Las Vegas. Thousands of people gathered for a fun evening, just like we often do here in Atlanta. Not one of those folks ever thought that they needed to wear bulletproof vests to see Jason Aldean sing...

I'm a football fan. Maybe even a football freak. But one of the realities of being a fan is that you are the shorter version of fanatic. I remember watching the NFL and the AFL on a black and white TV with rabbit ears with my Dad and thinking, this...

It’s Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck’s Pigskin Picks. I went 5-1 last week leaving my season total at 13-11. Here are my picks for Saturday, September 30, 2017. Auburn over Mississippi State Indiana over Penn State (Upset) Clemson over Virginia Tech North Carolina State over Syracuse Georgia over Tennessee USC over Washington State Happy Football Saturday! See you at Sugar Hill Church tomorrow...

Most Saturday's I love to share another author's writings that have challenged or encouraged me. Today's Saturday Share is from James Clear. I love this guy's writing and his gift that he shares with the universe. I truly trust that he might encourage you as well.  The Difference Between Professionals and...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 09.29.17 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to...

The Ever Present BUT by ACHUCKAllen I wish I could - BUT. I wish I would - BUT. I wanted to - BUT. Someday I might - BUT. The story goes on and on, and then - BUT! Have you noticed how many buts are in your life? My life is filled...

But...if You Love Me by ACHUCKAllen I grew up in a faith system that included a lot of guilt and pressure to act Christianly. Let me simply state that I failed greatly. Don't get me wrong, I did all the right things and I said most of the right things, at...

Dear Mr. President, I totally agree with you that Americans should respect and honor the flag of the United State of America. However, that loyalty, like love cannot be demanded and indentured. I believe that the men playing in the National Football League have every right to sit, kneel, or stay in...

It's Saturday Down South! And that means FOOTBALL and AChuck's Pigskin Picks. I went 2-4 last week leaving my season total at 8-10. Gotta pick it up this week, so here are my picks for Saturday, September 23, 2017. Oklahoma State over TCU Michigan over Purdue Texas A&M over Arkansas Auburn over Missouri Georgia over...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen 09.22.17 Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to...

He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less. John 3:30 Jesus said that John the Baptist that he was the greatest man ever born! How would you like that on your resume? Can you imagine that Jesus, the Lord was your numero uno on your resume? John...

[Love] does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; – 1 Corinthians 13:5 SHOW & TELL: We may not live what we say we believe, but we will inevitably live what we truly believe. To truly understand the power of serving others, we must understand...

This is the first weekday that I've shared another author's work on my BLOG. When I read this incredible article from Jeff Haden, I was truly challenged. Please let me know what you think about... 11 Habits of Genuinely Likable People - How to make a great first impression -- and...

Around Sugar Hill Church we use the phrase “We believe the Bible is a Big Deal” a lot. We say that because we truly believe that this book is a gift from the Divine as He uses it to give us direction, correction and inspiration. This Word of God is a...

Accountability is not a 4 Letter Word by AChuckALLEN Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. – Romans 13:1 I was a ninth grader that had the privilege of starting on my high school football...

This Saturday's College Pigskin Picks for September 16, 2017. Last week I went 4-2 to get me back to .500. I'm 6-6 on the year. Here you go: TENNESSEE over FLORIDA LSU over MISSISSIPPI STATE SOUTH CAROLINA over KENTUCKY  CLEMSON over LOUISVILLE BAYLOR over DUKE NOTRE DAME over BOSTON COLLEGE AND... GEORGIA over SAMFORD by 42 Happy College Football...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to leave your comments...

The number one question I hear from the folks that write, call, text or seek counsel from me is "WHAT SHOULD I DO, OR WHERE SHOULD I GO? This article has been written as part of the 1st30. A series designed for college freshmen, and regular folks like me and you! I'm...

Here's a thought - If you have more pictures of you than anything else on your Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or Snapchat feed, you might have a problem! I'm a technology junkie. The thought of a $1000 iPhone is exciting to me. I love all that technology allows us to experience. Wait...

Pin the Tail on the Relationship by AChuckAllen Have you ever been blindfolded? Maybe you were blindfolded while playing a game at youth group, or a friend’s birthday party as a kid. Being blindfolded is hard because you can hear everyone, but you can’t see what’s going on. This can lead...

Don’t Be a Jerk - Relationships Matter by ACHUCKAllen “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32 How many times are we angered and annoyed when other people are jerks to us? Right? Anybody can go to war with a keyboard, or...

September 9, 2017 I love this time of year! It's raining pig skins everywhere! Here's a six -pack of picks for this week in College Football. Last week I went 2-4 - YIKES! Let's see if I might land a few more winners this week. 1. Louisville over North Carolina 2. Arkansas over TCU 3. Clemson...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to leave your comments...

The Christian and the DACA Disaster by ACHUCKAllen This is a no win, all lose issue. If you are in the President's shoes, you campaigned on immigration reform, tax reform and health care reform. Thus far, it appears to be a challenge on every front - YOU LOSE. If you are a...

BIG - BIG TRUST by AChuckAllen This is a practical read for every Follower of Jesus. It was also written as a part of the "1st30", a daily devotion and podcast designed for college freshmen.  It’s simple. It’s short, and it’s incredibly powerful. Proverbs 3:5-6 is one of the most familiar passages...

My Little Hampster Wheel by ACHUCKAllen. I hear it all the time. I hear it from old folks, young couples and high school students. What is this "it" I'm referring to? It's the pace of life. I say it, I hear it and we all experience it. It's the pace of...

Dealing with the Bully by ACHUCKAllenPrepared for our “First 30 Devotional Series” for College Freshmen as a part of the Family Ministry at SUGARHILLChurch. My favorite Bible story when I was a young was the story of David and Goliath. Remember the story? David was a young dude that had learned...

Dealing with the Bully by ACHUCKAllen Prepared for our "First 30 Devotional Series" for College Freshmen as a part of the Family Ministry at SUGARHILLChurch. My favorite Bible story when I was a young was the story of David and Goliath. Remember the story? David was a young dude that had learned how...

Saturday September 2, 2017 I love this time of year! It's raining pig skins everywhere! Here's a six -pack of picks for this week in College Football.  1. Florida over Michigan 2. Florida State over Alabama 3. Tennessee over Georgia Tech  4. Texas over Maryland 5. West Virginia over Virginia Tech 6. Georgia over Appalachian State  It's the most...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but they each have encouraged or helped me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Please feel free to leave your comments...

I've had six daughters go through their first year of college, and what I've discovered in all of their lives is that your entire world changes. You've got a new set of friends, a new set of desires, a new set of goals. Everything about your life is being challenged....

I have heard preachers throughout my life throw the phrase, "We should fear the Lord our God" in some shape, form or fashion. As a kid, I thought that I was most definitely afraid of God. I didn't know why, but I was pretty afraid. I mean, with little or...

There is something that settles the soul, warms the heart and preps the mind for a great week. That thing is meaningful worship. I know folks that go to church for a lot of reasons. Some folks go to church because that's what they know to do on Sunday morning. Some folks...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another author's work. I select these based on the impact it had on my life. Sometimes it's challenging and sometimes it's encouraging. It's always teaching me something. I truly believe that when we surrender our willingness to learn, we surrender our right to lead! Today's...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related but have encouraged me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! A Really Good Read: Play the Man: Becoming the Man God Created...

When we look back on our lives, I think most folks would love a do-over on a few decisions or actions that they regret. I don't live with many regrets, but if I could do a few things over again, I would definitely do them differently! If I could do things...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another writers material that has encouraged me and will hopefully encourage you as well. This week's Saturday Share -  What I Wish I Knew at Every Age.By Madeleine Dore Illustration by Giacomo Bagnara When asked what we regret in our careers or life to date, it can be...

If you've been around me or followed this BLOG for any time at all, you know that I am rarely at a loss for words. I have a bad habit of sharing my opinions, even when it isn't asked for or needed. It feels like sharing what we think about something...

Left or Right, Conservative or Liberal, Republican or Democrat, the childish clammer of hate has got to stop! If we think this is new to the American political scene, think again. I remember when Bill Clinton won and the right went nuts. I remember when George W. Bush was elected...

I do not know all of the details surrounding the evil and sin-filled actions that led to the clash in Virginia, but I do know this: When any human determines that they are supremely capable of determining that someone else is an inferior creation, stupid is just around the corner.  I...

The following was written by Terry Hershey. You can find more from this author by CLICKING HERE. It could be the heat. Some records have been broken here in the PNW. For whatever reason, my emotional equilibrium is unsettled or off kilter. You know the feeling? And there’s no doubt that I...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but have encouraged me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY August 11, 2017 A Good Read: The Bully...

Each Friday I offer up at least 4 recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. These are not necessarily faith-based or church-related, but have encouraged me in some way. I trust that they might do the same for you! Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY August 11, 2017 A Good Read: The Bully...

I remember sitting in Sanford Stadium on a beautiful Fall day watching the Dawgs play the Orange Team from Knoxville. Georgia was ranked in the Top 5, and the nasty Orange Team in the Top 10. ESPN was live in Athens for Gameday and the place was electric. It was the...

On a few occasions during my high school years, my Dad would offer up his opinion of a friend or a girlfriend. When Dad suggested that I should be careful with that friend, or that girl, he was right - Every Single Time! How is it that Dad's know these...

It's been said that "I'm Sorry" are the two most powerful words in the English language. They are powerful, but "I'm Sorry" has everything to do with how you say those two high-powered words. The attitude you say them with and the degree to which you are believable are critical components. I'd like...

That's a loaded title, isn't it? We all have a definition of love. Regardless of your definition of love, we all know it when we feel it, miss it when it isn't present in our lives, and desire it in our hearts. One of the worst feelings on the planet...

I enjoy sharing another author's work each Saturday. I usually share a faith-based article from another blogger. Today, I'd like to share an interesting article from Thuy Sindell and Milo Sindell. I hope this is helpful... Why Leaders Should Rethink a Business Culture in Which Everyone Is Always 'Busy' Think about your...

Each Friday I like to share at least four suggested reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Thanks for joining me for the this week's 4forFRIDAY August 4, 2017. A Really Good Read - Six Thinking Hats – by Edward de Bono "The main difficulty of thinking is confusion," writes Edward de Bono, long recognized as...

I can't dance, but I convince myself that I can occasionally. Don't you just bust out a groove thing and dance sometimes? I do! It's usually when I am cleaning our main floor. I ask Alexa (Amazon Echo) to play some Sly and the Family Stone and just crank it...

Like many of you, I grew up with a faith system filled with rules and more rules. Many of those rules helped shape my life, and many of them seem so ridiculous that they reshaped my life. I have discovered that the detours the Divine has placed in my life, weren't...

Why in the world would anybody care what I write? That's the question that kept me from writing for years. Today marks one full year that I've been writing this BLOG. When I started, I had a simple goal in mind. I wanted to become a better writer. I had...

This week, I celebrate my sixth year as the pastor of an amazing church. In those six years, I've earned a doctorate in humility. Not the kind of humility found in a humble spirit, but the kind of humility that has broken you, bettered you and prepared you. The kind...

EASY LIKE SUNDAY MORNING with ACHUCKAllen I can remember when our kids were little and getting everybody, fed, teeth brushed, Sunday clothes on, in the car and car seats, checked in to preschool or children's ministry areas, over to "big church", walking the gauntlet of hand shakers and finally into the service...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing another author's work by sharing it on my site. This week's Saturday Share is awesome!  2 Quotes That Will Reshape Your Approach To Life by Benjamin Hardy In the movie, Gattaca, a young man, Vincent, is born with every disadvantage imaginable. It simply isn't his "fate" to...

Each Friday I like to share at least four suggested reads, listens, learnings or reviews. Thanks for joining me for the this week's 4forFRIDAY July 28, 2017.  A Really Good Mexican Lunch at Pure Taqueria in Duluth. I love the fish tacos for this quaint, but busy Mexican joint. It's fresh...

If you've been hanging out with me on this site over the past year, you know that I am a passionate seeker of better! Especially when it comes to small habits that can become life-altering routines in your life.  Here are 4 BIGGIES that I'm attempting to conquer over the next...

I've had the honor to serve Sugar Hill Church as their Lead Pastor for six years now. I am so grateful for this privilege. We may never be the largest church in town, but we will never cease to have the largest heart in town! One of the things Sugar Hill...

I used to hate it when my grandparents or parents broke out the "I remember when talks." As I grew into my 20's it became more tolerable, in my selfish little world. Into my 30's it became more interesting as the remembrances and changes became more evident. By my 40's it...

Trump, Russia, Healthcare & You by AChuckAllen I've not hidden the fact that I voted for Donald Trump. I still believe that he can get the job done. But O My Stars! How many ways can we screw up this Russian deal, and how in the world could the healthcare issue...

Sunday Vibes with ACHUCKALLEN  There are a couple of things in my house that I want to control. In all truth, I do not think that I am in control of either of them, but I'm feeling super positive today.  I'd like to think I can control the remote to the television...

This Week's Saturday Share July 22, 2017 Each Saturday I like to share another author’s BLOG. I like to share it because it has blessed or encouraged me. I trust that it will sharpen and encourage you as well. Happy Saturday, and thanks for being a part of my family! Today's Saturday...

This Week’s 4forFRIDAY – July 21, 2017 ______________________________________________ Each week I like to share with you four resources that have challenged, sharpened or encouraged me. These recommendations aren’t necessarily church related or even spiritually focused. They aren’t doctrinal statements. They are just a few recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. A...

Download Day 11 of 21 Days of Good Vibes: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day Eleven

Download 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 10: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 10 [pdf download] DISCOVER, EXPERIENCE AND SHARE GOOD VIBES! Seek a place of quietude and gratitude. Focus your heart and mind on the Divine, read His Word, learn His Word, express our gratitude, bring our prayers to Him,...

Download 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 9: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 9 DISCOVER, EXPERIENCE AND SHARE GOOD VIBES! Seek a place of quietude and gratitude. Focus your heart and mind on the Divine, read His Word, learn His Word, express our gratitude, bring our prayers to Him, and engage...

If I Live til I'm 75 by AChuckAllen I had the privilege of preaching a funeral for a friend's father Saturday afternoon. I was significantly moved by the grandkids describe their Papa. I was touched as my friend described his dad, and I was honored to have been the fortunate pastor...

Download Day 8 of 21 Days of Good Vibes: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 8   DISCOVER, EXPERIENCE AND SHARE GOOD VIBES! Seek a place of quietude and gratitude. Focus your heart and mind on the Divine, read His Word, learn His Word, express our gratitude, bring our prayers to Him, and...

I'm a huge fan of Simon Sinek's TED Talk on "How Great Leaders Inspire Action." It's one of the most viewed TED Talks of all time, and with good reason. Sinek makes the case for always being able to answer "WHY." Why give, why serve, why share, why, why, why? It's...

Download Day Seven of 21 Days of Good Vibes: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 7

Download Day SIX of 21 Days of Good Vibes: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 6

Each Saturday I like to share another author's BLOG. I like to share it because it has blessed or encouraged me. I trust that it will sharpen and encourage you as well. Happy Saturday, and thanks for being a part of my family! What Does It Really Mean to Bear "Much Fruit"?...

This Week's 4forFRIDAY  - July 14, 2017 Each week I like to share with you four resources that have challenged, sharpened or encouraged me. These recommendations aren’t necessarily church related or even spiritually focused. They aren’t doctrinal statements. They are just a few recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews. A Really...

Download Day Five of 21 Days of Good Vibes from Sugar Hill Church & Pastor Chuck Allen: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day 5

SIX QUALITIES OF A GREAT SPOUSE by AChuckAllen I've been married to 2 women over a collective 35 years. I've seen what death and divorce can do to a family, up close and personal. I have survived blending six daughters, six moves, five career changes, losing everything I own and bouts...

Download Day Four of the 21 Days of Good Vibes Here: 21 Days of Good Vibes Day Four Peace, AChuck

Leadership has become a mainstream economy unto itself. Billions of dollars are spent across almost every genre of work attempting to equip people to lead more effectively, or more efficiently, or more lovingly, or more...on and on and on! I've read hundreds of books on leadership and I've spoken at hundreds...

Download Day 3 of 21 Days of Good Vibes by Clicking Here -  21 Days of Good Vibes Day 3

My Best Advice for Your Marriage by AChuckAllen What an absurd title! My best advice for your marriage assumes that I've offered less than my best advice at some point! Seriously, here are six pieces of advice for married couples, in no particular order. Marriage is NOT 50/50! Marriage requires 100% of both...

We are off to a great start. If you missed yesterday, step back a day and catch up! You can download Day Two HERE -  21 Days of Good Vibes Day Two

  Download 21 Good Vibes Day One  I kicked off a new teaching series at Sugar Hill Church yesterday entitled "GOOD VIBES." We all have a radar-like vibe that speaks volumes to those around us. Our vibe attracts our tribe, determines our jive and sets the course for our hive. We can choose the...

IT's SUNDAY & YOUR VIBE ATTRACTS YOUR TRIBE! It's Sunday, and that means you get to make another choice. Will you give an hour or two to worship the God of All Creation, or wait in line for your favorite place to grab a tasty brunch? Don't get me wrong, I've...

Each Saturday, I enjoy sharing another author's work that has sharpened or challenged me. I trust that you'll enjoy it as well. Happy Saturday!  7 Habits of Irresistibly Engaging ConversationalistsWant to be a more memorable communicator? Here's how to pull it off. By Kat Boogaard  Do you know those people you really...

This week’s 4forFRIDAY is a 2 x 4  Each week I like to share with you four resources that have challenged, sharpened or encouraged me. These recommendations aren’t necessarily church related or even spiritually focused. They aren’t doctrinal statements. They are just a few recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews....

Please Pause the Tweets. Written by ACHUCKAllen Not that anyone in Washington would care, but I am pleading with the President of these United States to lay down the smartphone and step away from Twitter! I get it! You are underattack on every front. Every task, statement, meal, and sideways glance...

It’s pretty obvious that we need a different way of life. Ours isn’t turning out so well.  What if we were to go back to Jesus’ time here on this earth and see what He said - In Matthew 22: 35-40 - "One of them, an expert in religious law, tried...

I recently watched a Gatorade commercial that used this post's title. I was captivated by the stories and statements of the athletes in this ad.  Michael Jordan - Cut from his Jr. High basketball team.  Matt Ryan - On the wrong side of a Super Bowl loss recorded as the games biggest...

I saw a billboard this week that had a picture of the ideal young family all snuggled up in crisp white linens, perfectly white teeth and hair that was miraculously combed, curled and sprayed. For the record, I've never experienced that Sunday morning!  The billboard was part of an ad campaign...

Each Saturday, I enjoy sharing am article or BLOG from another author. This week's featured author is Jody Vickery. I think you'll enjoy this post. Frankly, My Dear...by Jody Vickery You never really know how many people you do not like or wish to forget until you try to come up with...

Each week I like to share four resources that have challenged, sharpened or encouraged me. These recommendations aren’t necessarily church related or even spiritually focused. They aren’t doctrinal statements. They are just a few recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or restaurants. I hope you will enjoy them as well. Please...

I've been a student of leadership since the late '80s. I attended a conference with a few guys to hear a pastor from California teach on the transformational power of leadership. Since then, he has moved on and has become America's poster child and multi millionaire guru of Leadership. He...

If you are wealthy, poor, somewhere in the middle, or clueless, the title of today's article fits us all at some point in time. Eventually, we all land in the center of "Oh Crap, Something Has Gotta Change!" And that's when we realize it - NOTHING CHANGES UNTIL SOMETHING CHANGES!...

Jordan Speith won the Travelers golf tournament this past weekend in dramatic fashion. He holed out a 60 foot shot from a bunker. Unbelievable shot and a win that earned him the right to celebrate! And celebrate he did. Tossing his putter and the bunker rake and then a flying...

The modern world seems to be unraveling at the very core of our founding father's desires for the new land. This great country was founded on the very tangible escape from tyranny, bullies and leaders gone mad with power. But 1776 was a long time ago, right? The Revolutionary War...

Saturday Share with ACHUCKAllen Each Saturday, I enjoy sharing another author's BLOG. It could be about anything, but if I've shared it, it has equipped me, enlightened me or encouraged me. I hope it will do the same for you! Today's Saturday Share is from Craig J Todd. Enjoy! 30 Morning Routines That Can...

Happy Friday! Each week I like to share four resources that have challenged, sharpened or encouraged me. These recommendations aren’t necessarily church related or even spiritually focused. They aren’t doctrinal statements. They are just a few recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or restaurants. I hope you will enjoy them as well....

I've learned that money can indeed buy happiness!  It's a happy day when you sit in a new car, or launch a new boat. It's fun to put on a new pair of shoes or jump in your own pool. But I've also learned that the happiness purchased has a pretty...

Here's a quick reflection from Sunday's teaching at Sugar Hill Church. While it was Father's Day, it's a reminder to all of us as we learn to lean into the presence and power of the Divine.  Good leaders are: Leaders Who Have Learned to Lean Proverbs 3:5    Trust in the Lord...

  Let me offer a brief warning about today's article: This post might offend you. I can assure you that it's not designed to do so. So, here we go - THE RUSSIAN INVASION. I've tried to stay up to speed on all the Washington news, including the seemingly never-ending quest for the...

I can remember it like yesterday. The first game that I was a pitcher in Little League Baseball. Coach Ricci selected me in the draft of the Exeter Little League program in North Kingstown, Rhose Island.  I loved baseball. Every night, when Dad came home, the first thing I asked him...

I don't own much, but whatever I do have, I'd give it all away for one more chat with my Dad.  I started to write something super-sappy about Dad, but I decided to write my top ten things that Dad taught me (in no particular order). By the way, this list...

Each week I like to share with you four resources that have challenged, sharpened or encouraged me. These recommendations aren’t necessarily church related or even spiritually focused. They aren’t doctrinal statements. They are just a few recommended reads, listens, learnings, or restaurants. This week’s 4forFRIDAY is a 2 x 4  First: Four...

Am I the only one that is sick and tired of hearing another story of terror, murder and evil? I don't think so! The attack on Republicans practicing for a baseball game? A UPS employee shooting and a catastrophic fire in London - all on the same day!  Growing up in...

It's Humpday and time to refresh from this past week's teaching. Here is a fool proof process to get your life in order to exceed your human capacity! First: Recognize your needs. You cannot exceed your human potential on your own. From desperation to aspiration, you need help from the Divine....

Every single day, we have the opportunity to set or reset our trajectory. We have the option to reset and course-correct our life!  If you're a "glass half empty person" this can seem like torture. But if you really want a sharper mind, a satisfied soul and a heart at peace,...

Growing up in a politicians home, fully engaged with the "proper way of political thinking", I once considered a career in politics. That was before the state of politics in our great land became littered with the insanity of inflexible party dogma.  Every news show has become a commentary spouting a...

It's Sunday morning and it's time to go to church. Yes, there are plenty of other options this morning. The lake, golf course, your favorite breakfast joint, or just rolling over for another hour of sleep.  I've preached a handful of funerals and officiated a handful of weddings in the past...

Each Saturday, I love to share an article or another author's BLOG that has been an encouragement to me. Today's Saturday Share is from Jim Denison. I think you'll be encouraged and motivated by his writings. Why Going to Church is Good for Your Health New research indicates that church attendance reduces...

Each week I enjoy sharing at least four reads, listens, learnings or gadgets that I've enjoyed. I hope you will as well.  Here's this week's 4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen June 9, 2017 FOUR BOOKS EVERY FOLLOWER OF JESUS SHOULD READ: 1. The Tale of Three Kings by Gene Edwards:   I first read this book more...

Watch Your Tone by ACHUCKAllen TONE - It's becoming a more significant word and definition in my life. Every organization, every family, every leader, every person has a NATURAL TONE. The challenge is setting your "tone" within the tune and the rhythms of the Divine. When our tone is in tune with the what, when or...

It's Wednesday and it might be your fault! Have you ever felt that way? Like everything you touch seems to be falling apart at the seems? Well, take a break from the headlines of terror and politics and read a brief word of encouragement. In a world of confusion and chaos, we...

I've heard these words a few thousand times; "I'll be thinking about you." I've had seasons in my life that have been beyond my capacity to cope well. In those seasons, I've never needed someone to think about me. I've needed folks to pray for me, assist me, and most importantly...

New Phone - Who Dis? with AChuckAllen I was picking on Samantha, our youngest daughter the other day when she replied, "new phone, who dis?" It all came out in one elongated word and I had no idea what she said. Once I was brought up to speed, I realized she was...

Each week I like to share with you four resources that have challenged, sharpened or encouraged me. These recommendations aren't necessarily church related or even spiritually focused. They aren't doctrinal statements. They are just a few recommended reads, listens, learnings, or restaurants. Here's this week's 4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen An Awesome ReadAs Kingfishers Catch...

REAL FAKE NEWS by AChuckAllen In an age filled with the next great scoop, our news seems to have become less news and more hype. But I understand it. The networks need ratings as more people are getting news from digital and social media outlets and the newspaper industry is all...

Sit down at any restaurant and look around at the families that are enjoying a nice evening out with their smartphone! I'm just as guilty. No condemnation here. BUT! I have been making strides in ridding myself of the appendage that has grown into a more pronounced tumor known better...

On this Memorial Day, I am grateful for the flag that I gladly salute. I can recall school days as a young boy and starting each day by standing with classmates as we all recited the Pledge of Allegiance as we saluted the Flag with hands over our hearts.  I can...

Settle Your Soul Sunday by AChuckAllen Sunday - It is a lot of things to a lot of people. For me, it has always meant that it was God time. It was and is an intentional day that I settle my soul. I know many of you read words like that and...

Each Saturday, I enjoy sharing a BLOG or article written by another author. A dear friend shared this week's Saturday Share with me earlier this week and I was so blessed by it, that I wanted you to have access to it as well! Enjoy! Love the One You're With; by...

Each week I like to make at least four suggestions on a resource that has been an encouragement to me. I hope it might encourage you, as well. My suggestions aren’t necessarily churched, or spiritually related, but they are good reads, listens, learnings, gadgets, and restaurants. Let me know what...

The Big Beautiful Wall, with ACHUCKAllen Warning: This will offend many of you. Proceed with caution. Then candidate Donald J. Trump proudly pronounced, in a chorus including tens of thousands of supporters -  "build that wall", "build that wall." And frankly, I'm not sure many people really care about "that wall." They care...

Remember life as a kid? When you wanted a do-over in the game, the shot, the play, the race? Me too.  I recall desperately needing a mulligan about 20-years ago. I played a little golf (bad golf) back then. I was part of a foursome at a pretty awesome course and...

What To Do When You Feel Betrayed: by ACHUCKAllen We've all been there. Somebody does something that is out of character, or we've never seen that side of them before. Maybe it was intentional or created out of an angry and bitter spirit. I've had folks tell me that I have...

Kill it Monday with ACHUCKAllen  I want to encourage you today! I know it's Monday, but why not set the pace, be the thermostat and create an attitude of gratitude.  If I could give you a magic pill that would give you an opportunity to have a Monday where you could "KILL...

It's Sunday! I can worship on the tee box and greens at my local golf course. I can worship at the pool. I can worship at the lake. I can worship at my favorite breakfast place. I can worship in my jammies with a pop-tart and another cup of coffee. Sound familiar? Maybe too familiar? Did...

Each Saturday, I enjoy sharing a BLOG from a fellow writer. This week’s Saturday Share is from a really interesting BLOG that I’ve been reading for years. I trust that it will be an encouragement to you as well! Today's Saturday Share is from Ron Edmundson. You can follow Ron HERE. 7...

Each week I like to make at least four suggestions on a resource that has been an encouragement to me. I hope it might encourage you, as well. My suggestions aren’t necessarily churched, or spiritually related, but they are good reads, listens, learnings, gadgets, and restaurants. Let me know what...

TAKE A BATH! By AChuckAllen Several years ago, I traveled 4-5 days a week in my ministry work. It was fun the first few weeks, but after a while it was a daily grind. Airport, plane, shuttle, hotel, speak, back to hotel, rubber chicken and back to the airport and start...

In the movie franchise, Guardians of the Galaxy, there are superheroes that guard and protect our world. In your day to day life, you are the guardian of your soul. That is, to the degree to which you can humanly guard your soul. I believe, with certainty that when the Divine takes...

Go Ahead with ACHUCKAllen In a world of cynicism, plurality, greed, hate and bigotry, you can grow pretty hardened to what's going on around you.  I know folks that are so jaded to one or more platforms, parties, positions, or colors, they cannot even communicate graciously or mercifully. It's not easy to...

It's Not That Hard with ACHUCKAllen Life! It can chew you up, spit you out and stomp on you. But life can also give you pure joy, innocent love, peace-filled days and unexpected happiness. The key is to enjoy more of the latter than the former.  How do we experience more good...

A BETTER DAY - A BETTER WAY Sunday - Man I Love Sunday! If you want a better day, start with a Sunday. When we Worship on the Lord's Day, we: Settled all accounts with the Divine (or at least have the opportunity to). Prepare yourself for a BETTER WEEK by surrendering your life to...

Each Saturday, I enjoy sharing a BLOG from a fellow writer. This week's Saturday Share is from a really interesting BLOG that I've recently started reading. No, it's not faith based, but it is super practical, and I find it to be refreshingly helpful. Enjoy: 3 Ways to Find Your Peace...

Each week I like to make at least four suggestions on a resource that has been an encouragement to me. I hope it might encourage you, as well. My suggestions aren’t necessarily churched, or spiritually related, but they are good reads, listens, learnings, gadgets, and restaurants. Let me know what...

It's been studied, pondered and probed. In the latest study, that I've read, we each make about 35,000 decisions a day. Each choice - Each decision - has significant consequences.  Let me offer Four Choices that anybody can and would be greatly be benefitted by making. Here you go, and you...

The opposite of bad is love.  The opposite of ugly is content.  The opposite of fat is healthy.  The opposite of fear is faith.  The opposite of happy is anxiety.  The opposite of angry is peace.  The opposite of kindness is hatred.  The opposite of friendship is selfishness.  The opposite of hope is unforgiving.  The opposite of Hell is...

You know what I mean. When health, or finances, or relationships are beating the crud out of you! When your family and home stops being a haven and has become a war zone. When the job you thought you'd retire from goes belly up, or the doctor just said, "you've...

Every week, millions of folks dread Monday! Been there - Didn't stay there! Remember The Bangles hit song, "Just Another Manic Monday"? If not, here are a few of the lyrics: "Six o'clock already, I was just in the middle of a dream, I was kissin' Valentino. By a crystal blue...

It's Sunday Morning and you have a decision to make. Will you recognize that the Divine deserves an hour or so of your valuable time? I know, it's not my style to throw guilt out there. Sorry. But since I've already tip-towed through the tulips about your Sunday Morning, let me...

SATURDAY SHARE with ACHUCKALLEN Each Saturday, I enjoy sharing a BLOG from a fellow writer. This week's Saturday Share is from my friend, Tripp Atkinson. Enjoy: Your 5 Best Ministries by Tripp Atkinson I see people all the time searching feverishly to find their perfect place of service. Some people refer to this...

Each week I like to make at least four suggestions on a resource that has been an encouragement to me. I hope it might encourage you, as well. My suggestions aren’t necessarily churched, or spiritually related, but they are good reads, listens, learnings, gadgets, and restaurants. Let me know what...

I remember my Grandaddy Allen explaining that any man that knew HOW to work would always have work. I was at the ripe old age of 9 when he first uttered those words of wisdom to me. Mom and Dad saw fit to send me to spend the summers with...

Years ago, I read the Paradoxical Commandments. I immediately thought, "this is life-altering thinking." To adopt this lifestyle would require empathy, compassion, love, patience, kindness, godliness, and authenticity. I still think these are powerful words, so before I offer SIX OF MY OWN PARADOXICAL THOUGHTS, here are the original from...

Yep, that was me at about 14 years old. If I knew while I was in my high school and young adult life what I know now - I would have lived quite differently. I'll bet you would have, as well. Here is an abbreviated list of what I would...

Three Keys to Be a Better Y'all with ACHUCKAllen.  After preaching on a Better Y'all yesterday, I wanted to follow up with THREE KEYS TO BETTER RELATIONSHIPS: Friendship is an interesting kind of love. There’s no contract legally binding you two together, there’s no unspoken rule about loving each other unconditionally,...

It's Sunday! It's a day for many of you to get away to the lake, or golf course. Maybe sleep in and get breakfast while enjoying another cup of coffee. The question for this Sunday is: What or Who will you worship today? I'm not suggesting that because you aren't in...

Each Saturday, I share another writer's BLOG that has been an encouragement to me. As a result, I trust that it might be an encouragement to you as well. Today's Saturday Share come from Jody Vickery and I think you will enjoy his fresh thoughts on the urge to worship...

Each week I like to make at least four suggestions on a resource that has been an encouragement to me. I hope it might encourage you, as well. My suggestions aren't necessarily churched, or spiritually related, but they are good reads, listens, learnings, gadgets, and restaurants. Here's Your 4forFRIDAY April 28,...

Stressed, fractured, spent, weary, frustrated, maxed-out, overwhelmed. These are the kind of words that describe so many folks that I meet. We throw around "how are you?" And "how you doing"? But we really just want to know that somebody actually cares. I often resonate with those words . And maybe you...

Failure is definitely an Option with AChuck This week, I'll be writing on BETTER! Every single person that I know longs for something BETTER. And there is nothing wrong with wanting something better. In yesterday's article, I offered up the belief that if I could write a prescription for your life...

BETTER with ACHUCKAllen I started a new teaching series yesterday entitled "BETTER." Everybody that I know wants BETTER. Better cars, better jobs, better marriages, better days, better, better, and even more better! Yes, I realize that is poor grammar, but it did make my point! What if we could define better in a way...

Read: 15 Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, 16 for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as...

Saturday Share from AChuck with Jenni Catron Each Saturday I try to share a BLOG or article that another writer has inspired me with. My hope is that it might inspire and encourage you as well. Today's post is from one of my favorite leaders on the planet, Jenni Catron. Her books...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen Every Friday I offer up at least four recommended READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, GADGETS OR FOODS.  These aren't designed to be doctrinal statements or theological underpinnings, but they are recommendations that have encouraged me. I hope they will encourage you, as well.  So here is this week's 4forFRIDAY; A Really Solid Read:...

Listen Up United Airlines with AChuckAllen Wow! Just Wow! Just about the time that I regret saying something in a BLOG, or in a sermon, or even in a friendly chat, I realize that I don't have near the problem that United Airlines does right now! They have rightly been charbroiled...

Trump's Twitter with AChuck President Donald J. Trump - If you hate him, it's another arrow in your quiver. If you love him, it's fuel for your fire. If you aren't really sure what you think about him, you might think he needs to stop commenting on everything, especially on Twitter....

Getting UnStuck with Guest Writer, Mark Miller I've known Mark Miller for more than a dozen years. There is no greater authority on servant leadership than Mark. The following is an excerpt from his most recent book, "Leaders Serve Here." I cannot recommend this book enough. There are so many "YES! I...

ARE YOU RELIGIOUS? with ACHUCKAllen I often hear people describe themselves as "not very religious", when asking if they'd like to check out Sugar Hill Church. Upon hearing this, I always reply "that's great! I run as far as I can from religion!" And that's when a real conversation gets started.  Somehow, we've learned...

WHAT DO YOU HONOR? With AChuck On Easter evening, after an amazing Easter Morning and a fun, family afternoon, Jenny and I just callapsed. Partly from our physical exhaustion and primarily from our emotional and mental exhaustion. As a break from 5 Sunday Worship Gatherings, and an afternoon full of fun,...

Each Saturday I share a BLOG from another writer that has encouraged me. In hopes of extending that encouragement, I hope you'll enjoy this article from Regi Campbell. See you tomorrow at SUGARHILLChurch for 1 of 5 Easter Services at 7:00 (outdoors at the Sugar Hil Bowl), 8:00, 9:30, 11:00,...

4forGOODFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen This is a bit of a change from my usual 4forFRIDAY. In light of the weighty and significant remembrance of all The Lord Jesus endured today, I thought I would offer A FEW READINGS and MEANINGFUL thoughts on how to Celebrate this Easter Weekend, at a very personal level....

MAUNDY - MAUNDY with AChuck It's Thursday - Maundy Thursday! Maundy is derived from the Latin word for "command," and refers to Jesus' commandment to the disciples to "Love one another as I have loved you." Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, which Followers of Jesus consider the institution of Holy...

Wednesday Peace with AChuck.  On this Wednesday, following Palm Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, Jesus was still and with His guys. He must have been humanly exhausted from a Tuesday of teaching in the temple, amidst a crowd of religious leaders launching barrage after barrage of attacks to discredit Him. And yet,...

Tuesday, the day the Son publicly taught in the temple for the last time before His death, burial and resurrection. Here's the thing - Jesus stood His ground. The religious elite were plotting and scheming to remove Jesus. They were powerful. They were frightened and angered that Jesus of Nazareth...

The Taxes We Pay with ACHUCKAllen It's that time of year, again. Tax Time. Its that day when you look at your previous years income and realize that you have paid for a lot of Americanism. If you lived in the Ukraine, Syria, or Somali, you'd gladly pay those taxes to have...

It's the Sunday before Easter. That's how most of us see Palm Sunday. Every year, it's one of those very special days to me. It's a reminder that I, and maybe you, truly resemble the crowd in Jerusalem some 2,000 years ago.  I've had seasons that I've welcomed Jesus of Nazareth...

Each Saturday I enjoy sharing a blog that has been an encouragement to me. I trust that today's Saturday Share might bless you as well. Today, I'm thrilled to share one of my favorite bloggers, Regi Campbell. The Split Personality of Jesus: by Regi Campbell Okay, I know the title of this...

Tomahawk Bashar al-Assad with ACHUCKAllen Let me make this clear. If you read yesterday's post, I am not an expert on Syria, or its present leader, Bashar al-Assad. BUT! I am confident that America cannot, and should not turn her heart or eyes from the crisis in Syria. These desperate people...

4forFRIDAY with ACHUCKAllen Each Friday, I attend to share at least four READS, LISTENS, LEARNINGS, GADGETS or REVIEWS. These are not designed to be doctoral dissertations or theological statements. They are recommendations that I've enjoyed, and hope you will as well! Here is this week's 4forFRIDAY: A New Album I'm enjoying, from Miranda...

Sorrow in Syria with ACHUCKAllen  The ongoing crimes against humanity in Syria are both heartbreaking and horrific. Add North Korea and Russia to the mix and it's a first class disaster.  While President Obama was in office, then citizen Donald Trump tweeted that the crisis in Syria "wasn't America's problem." Now, after...

What You Should Say with ACHUCKAllen When I first read the quote (later in this post) from Jackson Kiddard, I stopped in my tracks. It created in me a thought or four about what I'd like to say to the two most influential men in my life. They are already walking...

CHUCK IT Again; with ACHUCKAllen Yesterday's BLOG post and Sunday's sermon was the start of a book project. The response has been pretty awesome, so I'll give you a couple more CHUCK IT's for today. Please start making plans to join us for EASTER AT SUGAR HILL CHURCH, starting with Palm...

CHUCK IT! with ACHUCKAllen (part 1) 5 Deletions that will Radically Improve Your Life! Most of my adult life I have tried to add things to my life that might make life better, healthier or simpler. The vast majority of those add-ons didn't create the desired outcomes. But when I started off-loading some...

SATURDAY SHARE from ACHUCKAllen - Today's Share: EXCUSING YOURSELF FROM GOD’S BLESSING by Tripp Atkinson   Is it possible that you are excusing yourself from God’s blessings? Let me explain… In Exodus 3, we see that Moses found himself in a really awkward situation one day. It was one of those awkward situations...

Each Friday I offer at least four recommended reads, listens, learnings, gadgets or reviews for your consideration. These aren't doctrinal dissertations or theological underpinnings, they are a collection of recommended resources or places that I've enjoyed. I hope you enjoy them as well! Here is your 4forFRIDAY March 31, 2017. A...

Lifehacks for Busy People with ACHUCKAllen A lifehack is a different way to attack a problem or a better way to do your normal life better. A lifehack allows you to see a better way to approach your day or structure your time. It might be a more efficient use of your...

My Kids are Driving Me Crazy: Advice for Young Parents. By ACHUCKAllen If it can happen, odds are good that I've experienced it. Two marriages, six daughters, and more than 20 different pets. I know the plight of parenthood. I am still paying the tax of raising these little bundles of joy...

Sweet Home Alabama with AChuck I remember it like yesterday. The first time that I heard Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama." I was at High School football camp, August 1974. We went to a place somewhere near Loganville, Georgia that was known as Camp Bow and Arrow. In our "A-frame cabin", Dink...