Author: hcarmstrong
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Leading with Focus and Flexibility in Crisis

Dynamic Leadership Series Part 6 Crises have a way of testing the core of our leadership, pressing our priorities, shaking our assumptions, and revealing where our trust truly lies. For Christian leaders, these moments are not just disruptions; they are divine opportunities to pivot faithfully while keeping eternity in view. This spring, a tornado tore…
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Cultivating Connection: Three Keys to Effective Leadership

Dynamic Leadership Series Pt. 5 A Reflection on John 15 and the Inner Life of a Leader In John 15, Jesus invites His followers into something far deeper than religious activity or leadership performance. “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither…
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From Darkness to Light

Why Discussing Hard History Matters Recently, I had the opportunity to speak about the story of Pruitt-Igoe in St. Louis; a housing project once seen as a symbol of hope, but ultimately a tragic example of racial discrimination, economic neglect, and broken promises. The story of Pruitt-Igoe isn’t just local history; it reflects a much…
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I am Not the “Black Friend”

It’s a complicated thing to help friends work through and discuss issues of race. This can be especially true for Black people. Some days, it feels like a sacred calling. I know from experience the feeling of being in a board room or planning meeting and someone turns to me saying, “well Herman, you’re Black.…
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Selfless and Steadfast: Transformative Leadership

Dynamic Leadership Series Pt. 4 “ Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. ” (John 15:13). In this verse, Jesus defines the highest form of leadership: sacrificial, selfless, and steadfast. As organizational leaders, embracing humility and extending grace can transform our teams and cultures—just as Christ’s ultimate sacrifice reshaped humanity.…
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Freedom to Forgive: Corrie Ten Boom

Dynamic Leadership Series Part 3 When have you needed to extend or receive forgiveness through a cross-cultural offense—and what did it teach you? Real leaders know the importance of maintaining healthy relationships. And all relationships require continual forgiveness. Corrie Ten Boom, a Dutch Christian who helped Jews escape the Nazis during World War II, is…
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Don’t Let Go: Attitudes for Reconciliation

In today’s world, the need for racial reconciliation is as urgent as ever. Yet, there are still many who fail to see the importance of it or actively resist the effort. As individuals committed to making a difference, we have a responsibility to not only advocate for change but also help carry others toward understanding…
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How Do We Work Toward Racial Equity?

Race is a social construct—but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real. While race has no biological basis, it has shaped policies, institutions, and everyday experiences in ways that continue to impact our society. From voting rights to housing access, from healthcare disparities to education outcomes, the consequences of racial division are woven into the fabric…
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A Prayer for Confidence through Trials

Dynamic Leadership Series Part 3 In this series we have been examining the life of Joseph in the book of Genesis. Through years of abuse, mistreatment, and loneliness he held firm to his beliefs and displayed a radical sense of optimism. How? Joseph’s faith was in the power of God. All leaders go through trials.…
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Politics, Religion, and…

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.“ Proverbs 15:1-2 ESV In a recent experience teaching on how to engage and discuss politics at my church, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult—and rewarding—these conversations can be. While the topics are complex, I’ve also discovered three essential qualities that make discussing them much easier:…