Hal Donaldson is the president and CEO of Convoy of Hope, a global, faith-based, nonprofit organization that works with communities to address root causes of poverty and hunger. According to Forbes, Convoy of Hope is among the 50 largest charities in the United States. Through its disaster responses and community development programs, Convoy has distributed more than $3 billion worth of food and supplies, helped more than 300 million people, and currently feeds more than 639,000 children every school day. Hal has received numerous public service awards. He has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from San Jose State University and a Bachelor of Arts in biblical studies from Bethany University. Hal and his wife, Doree, have four daughters. Chris has known Hal for many years and is so honored he and Tracy could talk with Hal in Next Step Leadership. Hal is also the author of many books, including his latest, What Really Matters: How to Care for Yourself and Serve a Hurting World. As you hear Hal's testimony, you will understand better the importance of his book. Through his own wounds, Hal has chosen to realize what really matters and how to bring that truth to people in need all over the world.

https://convoyofhope.org/

https://haldonaldson.org/

In this second conversation, Pastor Greg Dixon picks up where last week's episode ended. Chris and Tracy want you to hear these types of stories. We might pretend to be strong while deep inside wounds are impacting us. We might present powerful messages and vision and teaching sessions and songs, while our inner worlds carry the pain from past encounters. True leaders seek to be in the job that is best for them and for the people they serve. It should not be about titles. It should not be about the ladder of success. What are you passionate about? What has God placed inside your heart for the work of the kingdom? Promotion in God's kingdom looks so different that how our culture views it. Are you sitting in the chair that is best for you? Are you secure enough in Christ to sit in that chair? Greg also gives practical advice for the life of serving in ministry: Family, friends, time management, preparation, priorities, and boundaries. Look at your life and ministry to see what healthy boundaries you need to set.

https://ucf.cc/staff

Tracy and Chris invite you to join their time with Pastor Greg Dixon. Like each episode in Next Step Leadership, this week's words are valuable for all who listen. Greg serves as executive pastor at Upward Christian Fellowship in Flat Rock, NC. Years ago, Greg's lead Pastor died unexpectedly. Greg began to serve as lead pastor during a very difficult season of life and ministry. In this conversation, Greg tells his testimony. God worked on Greg through his reluctance and his struggles, but God guided him to Emmanuel University. He talks about his pastor's death and about how the congregation was affected. Greg tried to care for the people while he was also grieving. Greg encourages listeners to know what area is best for them to serve. Moving up to a higher role in leadership isn't always where God leads us. Stepping into a job considered lower in our culture might be the high place God takes us. Is there an area you need to see a counselor? Is hard work taking the place of healing? Listen to his story of grief and growth, change and service, hope and healing.

https://ucf.cc/staff