It happened at a breakfast meeting with Tim Bergkvist, Program Director for Doctor Marriage ministry. We were discussing new projects, website improvements, and the daily blog. The topic of feeling bad about missing a printing deadline arose. From that disappointment the Doctor Marriage working philosophy was born. There are three parts to our philosophy:

Always Practice Gratitude

Tim said, “Look where we are!” We are on God’s team. Doing God’s work. Part of a small team doing huge, life changing work. God is using us to strengthen men and bless wives. Because of what God is doing we must regularly practice gratitude.

No blame! No Shame! Just keep moving Forward!

We have spent enough of our life blaming, shaming, feeling bad, and living stuck. From this day forward no more wasting time with criticism or negativity. Rather, we will correct, adjust, and move forward. Starting today, no blame or shame-ever. We will simply adjust as needed and encourage each other as we do Kingdom work.

There is no Failure. Just New Learning!

Learning is the goal. And, there is no failure in learning. There is just learning-what works and what does not work. And, in a learning model, what does not work is part of learning what does work. We won’t spend time asking who failed, why did you fail, or what did you do wrong? Rather, we will ask, what did we learn?

Bible Connection

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that can’t be shaken, let’s continue to express our gratitude. With this gratitude, let’s serve in a way that is pleasing to God with respect and awe, because our God really is a consuming fire.

Hebrews 12:28-29 (CEB)

Prayer

Father, I have a heart full of gratitude. I am so blessed. Thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you for giving me a vision. And, thank you that I can be part of your love story. Help me spread love, growth, and healing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Note from Tim

Stephen is gracious-He makes it seem like my idea. But he’s always operated this way since I first started working with him, long before Doctor Marriage. I am truly blessed to be working with such a gracious sage. It is my sincere hope that this working philosophy helps you in your own marriage, ministry, and work projects.