March is a good time to open your sails to the fresh winds of the Holy Spirit! The power of the Holy Spirit renews believers and churches. That same power keeps obedient Christians faithful and effective over the long haul.

March: “In like a lion, out like a lamb.” The windy weather of early March reminds us of the Holy Spirit, manifested at Pentecost in the sound of a mighty rushing wind (Acts 2:1). Are you open to the Spirit’s leading? Do you routinely open yourself to receive the Spirit’s power as fuel for Christian service?

Pastors and lay leaders in churches over 40 who allow themselves to become disconnected from the Holy Spirit’s power inevitably “crash and burn.” We’ve seen this happen in a variety of ways, including:

• discouragement leading to paralysis and exit or depression
• activity without prayer leading to exhaustion
• neglect of important human relationships leading to pseudo-intimacy and moral failure
• impatience leading to strident demands and angry outbursts
• disappointment leading to a sense of betrayal and bitterness

One Christian leader whose work has stood the test of time is Billy Graham. His crusades have helped revitalize cooperating churches by challenging them to prioritize evangelism and make room for new Christians referred by crusade counselors. Crusade evangelism has its problems; typically only a fraction of those responding to crusade invitations are active in churches a year later. However, Billy Graham also inspires by his sterling example. He has maintained integrity over decades of influential ministry.

Our book review this month, _The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham_ by Myra & Shelley reveals the source of Billy Graham’s remarkable staying power.

Our web review connects you to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s advice on “finding a good church.” Do you agree with their criteria? How does your church compare?

I pray for you as you partner with God for renewal in your church! May the Spirit of the Living God fall afresh on you, giving you joy in the journey. “But then God our Savior showed us his kindness and love. He saved us, not because of the good things we did, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins and gave us a new life through the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4-5).