I heard something today that really got me thinking. It was advice from an old preacher. He told me, Tony, always aim to be a cow preacher, not a chicken preacher. Now, hold on a second and let me explain. This might sound a bit odd, but I promise it makes sense.

So, what’s a chicken preacher, you ask? Picture this: a chicken pecking around, finding bits and pieces in the dirt, then turning around and dropping them into the chicks’ mouths. It’s quick and easy, right? But is it the best way? Maybe not.

Now, let’s talk about cow preachers. Imagine a mother cow in a field. She chews the grass, swallows it, brings it back up, and repeats. It goes through a whole process, passing through several stomachs, before it becomes milk for her calf. A bit more effort, but way more nourishing.

This idea stuck with me because it’s not just about feeding others. It’s about doing the work ourselves first. Isaiah’s words ring true here: people can talk all they want, but where’s the heart? We can speak beautifully, but it means nothing if our hearts aren’t in it.

Here’s where it gets practical for us, especially those of us leading or encouraging others. It’s about being genuine. Be a cow preacher. Make sure what you’re sharing has been worked through in your own life first. It’s got to be real.

Let’s break it down:

• Engage deeply with what you’re teaching.

• Ensure it transforms you first.

• Then, share it in a way that truly nourishes others.

Being real and genuine is the best way to keep our hearts close to what matters. Let’s remember that next time we find ourselves sharing or leading. It’s not just words; it’s life. Let’s make sure it’s real, like the milk from a cow. That’s my challenge for us today. Let’s go out there and be cow preachers.