Author: Ellie McNair | Living Education Charlotte Faculty & Program Assistant
A summary of an introductory speech presented to the students given by a Living Ed Alum at Orientation.
You have started the adventure of a lifetime. This Living Education program, nine months of it, is an adventure. You have your favorite stories, real or fictional, that speak to you and challenge your perception. If you consider your own life and all that has led up to now. This is a big step forward. You are Bilbo Baggins of Bagend, stepping out to follow Gandalf on a grand trip.
But what do they encounter on those travels? Danger, hardship, hopelessness. You will most likely have these too.
Danger–in the form of classes with teachers who will push you to either secure your beliefs or fail.
Hardship–will come through daily living, working, breathing, with people who are so different that they make your skin crawl. Make your Christian love for them grow daily so you can cope with the situation.
Hopelessness–that comes the first time you realize every other person in the house, room, class, and church is also a human being. With their unique flaws and peculiarities that make them imperfect.
What Kind of Adventure?
What kind of adventure is this, you might ask? Where’s the swashbuckling hero, or daring heroine? Look around you …this is your cast. Like Daniel and his three friends, you are here to stand together. Where’s the challenge? Building a base in God’s ways is your daunting task. Push each other to do so. Dig deeply into what you are learning. Know why you are taking each and every step in your life. Does it follow the mind of God? Your Creator, whom you came here to learn about? Or is it your own will that you have justified as His by your human logic?
Do you have questions? Ask them! But not of each other, with the limited understanding you came here to develop and grow. That’s youth asking for the counsel of his friends. Look to your teachers and the instructors God has put here to guide you to His truth. To understand, ask the “Gandalf’s” in front of you daily, because later in life, you may not have one available to you. Deepening understanding of those things is what you came here to do. Well, at least that’s what you said it was in your essays.
This program is an adventure of a lifetime. Treat it as such, and you will walk away in nine months with an unquestionable accomplishment that can stay with you for a lifetime. And truly, this is the start of your own Christian walk, which is the adventure for eternity. The opening scene is set – where will you go now?
Ellie McNair is a Living Education alum from the 2021-2023 school years. She currently works for the Living Education program as the Women’s Life Roles Instructor and Program Assistant.
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/IMG_8685-e1787059594653.jpg7881233Sabrielle McNairhttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngSabrielle McNair2026-08-18 17:21:592026-08-18 17:49:37“Adventure of a Lifetime”
These posts summarize the forums that our Living Education-Charlotte students attend each week.
As this year of Living Education-Charlotte comes to a close, the students were privileged to receive a final forum address from Mr. Gerald Weston, Presiding Evangelist of the Living Church of God. In Mr. Weston’s message, he discussed an individual in the Bible who became unusually successful on more than one front, and who shared some lessons we can draw from his life – the character of Joseph.
How Do You Count Success?
Mr. Weston began by asking the students this question. It’s easy to try and measure success by human metrics: money, popularity, status, or resources. But real success is measured by obedience to God and living according to His principles. In turn, God is the One who blesses us with more than we could ever imagine – even if we don’t always see how things will work out.
That is what happened to Joseph. Genesis 37:1 states that Joseph was merely 17 when his life began to change in some very dramatic ways. Joseph was young, and while clearly living according to a different standard of morality than some of his brothers, was at times a little too exuberant in his demeanor. His dreams angered his brothers, and his quickness to tell his brothers all about it led them to sell him into slavery.
Not the End of the Story
As Mr. Weston pointed out, if we didn’t know how the story ended, it would be easy to draw some rather reasonable conclusions and leave it at that. Here was a young man who, while trying to do the right thing, should perhaps have been a little more tactful, and here was a seemingly hopeless ending.
But the story doesn’t end with despair. In fact, it’s only the beginning. Proverbs 16:7 states that “when a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Even though he was in a foreign land, Joseph found favor with his new master, Potiphar – such that he was given responsibility over his entire house.
Joseph Excelled
Joseph distinguished himself among Potiphar’s other servants. He went above and beyond, and impressed Potiphar to the point of elevating him above the others. Mr. Weston pointed out that there was a noticeable difference between Joseph and the other servants, and that Potiphar was capable of recognizing it.
Even when faced with false accusations of misconduct by Potiphar’s wife, Potiphar may not have fully believed her. Instead of executing Joseph, he allowed him to live in prison, and even in those dire circumstances, Joseph did not lose heart. In fact, Joseph continued to find favor with the authorities in prison, and distinguished himself even in those difficult circumstances.
God Has a Time For Each of Us
It wasn’t God’s plan for Joseph to remain in prison forever – in time, He did release him. But even in a time of waiting, God did not leave Joseph to his own devices and forget about him – God was preparing him for a time when he would be in charge over all Egypt. Similarly, God allows us to go through times of blessings and times of difficulty in order to teach us lessons, as well as to prepare us for future roles and responsibilities. What we do in the meantime is just as important as what we do when it becomes our time.
Joseph could not have predicted that he would meet Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker, or the role they would play in his life. He could not have predicted that he would be released to meet Pharaoh. And he could not have predicted that God would allow him to be elevated to the station he would later fill. But even though he didn’t have a picture of what his future would be, Joseph never wavered in his faith or his principles. He still carried himself with intention and applied quality to his behavior – even taking the time to shave before meeting Pharaoh. Through all of it, Joseph gave credit to God for his success.
Lessons From Joseph
Joseph was a young man who distinguished himself among his peers because of his character, values, and commitment to living God’s way in spite of his popularity. He was hardworking and trustworthy, and was an excellent example of Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before unknown men.” God chooses to elevate or humble us depending on the lessons He wants us to learn – but regardless of the circumstances in which we find ourselves, we should be grateful for His involvement in our lives, and we should strive to adhere to His principles faithfully. Like Joseph, we must do our part, strive for excellence in our conduct and the endeavors we take on, and stay focused.
Success can be measured in many ways – but our real goal should be to become part of God’s Family in the Kingdom. Matthew 6:33 tells us to “seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” While it’s not wrong to have earthly goals, we need to stay focused on what is important. It’s important for us to have a balance between keeping that focus, and trying to do well at what we have been given here and now.
When it comes to our own lives, we have the same choice Joseph did – how will we choose to conduct ourselves? If choose to live our lives like Joseph did, we’re staying committed to a way of life that is bigger than any earthly successes we could ever imagine.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/stevepb-coins-948603.jpg10001500David Markopouloshttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngDavid Markopoulos2026-05-29 11:08:562026-05-29 11:08:58Mr. Gerald Weston: Lessons From Joseph’s Life
These posts summarize the forums that our Living Education-Charlotte students attend each week.
Mr. Rod McNair is an evangelist serving as the Assistant Director of Church Administration. In a recent forum message addressed to this year’s Living Education-Charlotte students, Mr. McNair encouraged the students to engage in the hobby of gardening.
Tend and Keep the Earth
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In today’s world, there are many people who worship and revere the earth – however, Mr. McNair reminded the students that while this is an imbalance, God has still given us a responsibility to tend and keep the earth.
This element of our earthly responsibility will exist in the Kingdom as well. Micah 4:4 states that “they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree, and no one shall make them afraid, for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.” This idyllic picture is an exciting reminder of what we have to look forward to. But we don’t have to wait to enjoy what nature provides – we can find joy in taking care of the earth now.
Stay in Touch With Creation
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get out of touch with reality, especially with the distractions available with modern technology. Taking an interest in the earth and growing things is a way to stay in touch with nature and reality, and to appreciate what God has created. And there are many lessons to learn from growing things – spiritually, we ourselves are like seeds being nurtured and watered by God throughout our lives.
Why Grow Things?
Mr. McNair shared three reasons to grow things:
Connect with the Reality of God: The intricacy of God’s design is evident in the natural world. Staying in touch with that reality is healthy and important.
Health: Growing plants, flowers, and produce helps reduce anxiety and stress, mitigate ADD effects, and decrease depression and PTSD.
Save Money: Growing one’s own produce is a low-cost way to have some food on hand, and saves money long-term.
Grow Something!
Mr. McNair reminded the students to be practical, choose something you’d enjoy growing, and to take advantage of the climate in which you live. To conclude, he gave the students a gift: their choice between tomato and pepper seeds in a paper cup for them to take home and begin growing on their own. This “assignment” was a fun and easy way to begin the hobby of gardening at home.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/bru-no-grapes-3550729.jpg10001500David Markopouloshttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngDavid Markopoulos2026-05-28 16:22:202026-05-28 16:26:17Mr. Rod McNair: Grow Something
The eighth academic year of Living Education-Charlotte has come to a close. On the morning of Friday, May 22nd, 2026, our students gathered with their families and guests for graduation, receiving their hard-earned certificates.
Opening the ceremony, Program Director Mr. Jonathan McNair shared a slideshow presentation of the year in review. Following this, Mr. McNair addressed the students and guests by recounting statistics and details of the year. He compared the experiences and lessons learned this year to a smorgasbord. Life presents a wide variety of rich experiences and choices, but there are also bad ones. Mr. McNair encourages the students to make the effort to choose right.
Following this, Mr. McNair introduced his brother and Assistant Director of Church Administration, Mr. Rod McNair, to give an address to the group. Mr. McNair’s presentation revolved around a central piece of advice he himself had learned as a student many years before: You will be the same person in one year as you are now, save for the people you meet and the books you read. Mr. McNair admonished the students to pick their associates wisely, and to read well and widely.
The highlight of the ceremony was the conferring of credentials. Instructors Mr. Kenneth Frank and Mr. Wayne Tlumak announced each student and helped Mr. Gerald Weston, Presiding Evangelist, in presenting the certificates to each graduate. Surrounded by friends and family, this special occasion is an exciting milestone and accomplishment for each and every student. Following the presentation of the certificates, Mr. Weston addressed the group, and encouraged the students to make the most of their educational experience here in Charlotte as they continue forward in their lives. Afterward, students and guests enjoyed a beautiful reception filled with fellowship and refreshments.
This year of Living Education has produced 10 alumni of our foundations program, receiving their Certificate in Biblical Foundations. Additionally, three returning alumni have now graduated from our Student Leader Program, and will soon be headed to Thailand to volunteer as English teachers over the summer. All in all, Living Education-Charlotte has produced 84 alumni over its eight academic years.
Over the past nine months, our students have learned many things. They’ve learned about the Bible, personal finance, cooking, music, history, and more. But even more than that, they have been taught how to put God’s way of life into practice for themselves. This year of education is only the beginning of a lifetime of godly learning.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
Mr. Jacob Hall is a pastor serving in the Edmonton, Alberta area. In his recent forum message to the Living Education-Charlotte students, Mr. Hall gave helpful advice on mastering the fundamental elements of our calling.
Mr. Hall was a former student of Living University, and remembered his time as a student. He reminded the current students that what they are doing now is setting a foundation that has the potential to change the trajectory of their lives. But it’s important to remember that what will keep us on the right path is maintaining a personal relationship with God.
How can we make sure we’re maintaining that personal relationship with God? Mr. Hall covered four fundamental tools to do so, and encouraged the students to evaluate how one is doing in each area personally.
Bible Study
Mr. Hall reminded the students that it’s important to prioritize studying our Bible, and to strive to read it every day. John 6:57 tells us: “As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who feeds on Me will live because of Me.” In our Christian walk, we learn more about Christ and the Father through the inspired writings of the Bible, allowing us to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for who They are.
Mr. Hall also pointed out that there is a great deal of uncertainty in life. We’re faced with hard decisions, and paths whose ends we can’t always see. But God’s word illuminates our path and gives us a framework through which we can navigate life. Making a priority of intense Bible study is a critical key to developing and maintaining a deep, personal relationship with God, as well as understanding how and what to do when things are unclear.
Prayer
Prayer is another crucial tool—do we take advantage of it? Having 24/7 access to God the Father’s throne is a gift, and we should use this opportunity to directly communicate with Him. God wants a relationship with us, and building this habit of daily, consistent prayer is deeply important to developing that relationship. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 admonishes us to “pray without ceasing”—an instruction we should take to heart and learn to develop as a habit.
Meditation
The tool of meditation is another important contributor to our relationship with God. Taking the time to reflect and consider His ways, laws, and blessings, as well as the lessons you’ve learned is deeply important. In doing so, we learn to orient our minds toward the way He thinks, and we set a pattern of thinking like Him. Mr. Hall pointed out that in order to take on godly character, we have to put continual effort into right, godly thinking.
Fasting
Fasting is a way to humble ourselves and draw closer to God. James 4:6 states: “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” When we fast, we are allowing ourselves to become weak and rely on God, as well as eliminating distraction. It’s important to fast regularly and build a habit of humility before God.
Master the Fundamentals
If we master the fundamental elements of our calling, we’re able to build on them and grow in our faith. Having a firm foundation in our faith and our relationship with God requires consistent effort, and making sure we don’t neglect the basics.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/bertvthul-avenue-815297.jpg10001500David Markopouloshttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngDavid Markopoulos2026-05-06 17:09:322026-05-06 17:11:13Mr. Jacob Hall: Master the Fundamentals
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PXL_20260215_205804776e.jpg15001489Katelyn Wissingerhttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngKatelyn Wissinger2026-04-22 16:49:012026-04-22 16:49:05Women’s Life Roles Class
Author: Hevian Ponce de León Morales | Living Education
Estas publicaciones resumen los foros a los que nuestros estudiantes de Living Education-Charlotte asisten cada semana.
El señor Michael DeSimone, gerente de medios digitales y radiodifusión de la Iglesia impartió un mensaje para los estudiantes de Living Education-Charlotte sobre cómo conseguir trabajo, compartiendo tres estrategias clave para obtener el trabajo que deseas. Las estrategias que compartió pueden ser de gran ayuda para conseguir el empleo que buscas.
Cómo conseguir una entrevista El señor DeSimone comenzó este foro explicando cómo obtener una entrevista de trabajo. La mayoría de las personas simplemente envían solicitudes masivas a las ofertas que ven; esta es una manera ineficaz de asegurar una entrevista, y aún menos para conseguir el empleo. El señor DeSimone incentiva a los estudiantes a orar e investigar las compañías en las que ellos estén interesados en laborar en lugar de limitarse a consultar las ofertas.
Además, no deben esperar a que se desocupe una vacante en la compañía: ¡El cielo es el límite!
Michael DeSimone dio instrucciones específicas para que tu currículum destaque entre los demás y no sea descartado. Debes enviar una carta de introducción a la empresa mencionando tu nombre al menos 3 veces para que te reconozcan. Como seguimiento, también debes enviar tu carta de presentación y tu currículum. Asegúrate de enviarlos a alguien que pueda tomar decisiones de contratación o a alguien que pueda remitirlos a la persona adecuada.
Finalmente, haz un seguimiento con una llamada telefónica. Sé persistente y no te conformes con dejar un mensaje de voz. En su lugar, haz todo lo posible para hacer el seguimiento directamente por llamada.
¡Domina la entrevista! Una vez que tengas la entrevista, el Sr. DeSimone aconsejó a los estudiantes a no improvisar. Preséntese de 5 a 10 minutos más temprano, bien arreglados y vestidos apropiadamente para la ocasión. La recomendación es vestir un poco más formal de lo que corresponde a las expectativas del trabajo y su empleador, uno o dos niveles más alto de lo esperado.
Asimismo, invitó a los estudiantes a estar preparados para cualquier pregunta y practicar con entrevistas de simulación previamente. Es importante conocerse a uno mismo, entender sus fortalezas y debilidades. Prepárese para responder preguntas acerca de usted mismo y sea honesto con el entrevistador.
Negociación de la remuneración Si el entrevistador reconoce que puedes proveer valor a la empresa y está decidido a contratarte, es importante moderar tu entusiasmo antes de negociar el salario. No hables de dinero demasiado temprano o demasiado tarde en este juego. Si tu entrevistador está decidido a contratarte, querrá mantener la posibilidad de hacerlo. Esto significa que existe una menor probabilidad de rebajar un salario que, en teoría, es conveniente para ambas partes. No hables del sueldo hasta que sepas que ya tienes el trabajo en la bolsa, y que ambos lo desean así.
Estos principios importantes son herramientas muy útiles para conseguir una entrevista, superarla con éxito y comprender los detalles de la remuneración. El Sr. Michael DeSimone animó a los estudiantes antes de buscar empleo a ser persistentes y proactivos.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
Author: David Markopoulos | Living Education
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/stocksnap-office-925806.jpg10001500David Markopouloshttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngDavid Markopoulos2026-04-22 10:28:532026-05-08 10:12:09Mr. Michael DeSimone: Las Tres Claves Para Conseguir Trabajo en la Empresa Que Deseas
This past weekend, the male students of Living Education-Charlotte, joined by Mr. Jonathan McNair, set out on an exciting adventure in the mountains of North Carolina. The picturesque views of Linville Gorge set a beautiful background for our annual men’s backpacking trip. The purpose of these trips is to help our male students draw closer together as men, spend time in the great outdoors, and learn essential survival skills.
Setting out from the dorms, the intrepid crew of adventurers ascended a steep uphill trail, took a pre-packed lunch overlooking the scenic views of the gorge near the top of the ridge, and ultimately descended toward a clearing where we camped for the night. After an eight-mile day, we were glad for an early dinner and the chance to enjoy the evening before heading to bed. The next day, despite blustery winds, the sun came out, setting a warm tone for the day as we retraced our steps and ultimately made our way back to the cars—and civilization! This year’s trip helped our male students build basic camping skills, gave them the chance to grow closer together as brothers, and provided lasting, enjoyable memories in the great outdoors.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
Author: Katelyn Wissinger| Student, Living Education – Charlotte, 2025-26
Where & What: A Student’s Perspective
From March 20 to March 23, the ladies of Living Education went on a trip to Charleston, SC, to reflect on what they learned this year, build stronger bonds with each other, and learn about the history and culture of a new place. Mrs. Weston and Mrs. McNair came on the trip, which provided a wonderful opportunity for us to build friendships with women of varying ages.
From March 20 to March 23, the ladies of Living Education went on a trip to Charleston, SC, to reflect on what they learned this year, build stronger bonds with each other, and learn about the history and culture of a new place. Mrs. Weston and Mrs. McNair came on the trip, which provided a wonderful opportunity for us to build friendships with women of varying ages.
Our trip included traveling to a range of different places and exploring the Charleston, SC area. On the Sabbath, we joined the Walterboro, SC, congregation for services, fellowship, and a scrumptious potluck meal afterwards. That evening back at our rental house, we engaged in a team-building activity, assembling three different themed charcuterie boards. With our creative hats on, each team carefully built the boards; it was hard not to eat half the ingredients while we made them!
On Sunday, all of us got dropped off at the bottom of the city of Charleston for an exciting scavenger hunt. The students were divided into two teams and had an hour to try to find as many things on a list that included major tourist attractions and historical sites around the city.
Finally, on Monday, as we returned to Charlotte, we stopped at an old plantation, Middleton Place, to wander through the beautiful gardens, with bush after bush of blooming azaleas.
We all enjoyed spending more time getting to know each other and developing lasting memories on this year’s ladies’ trip to Charleston, SC.
The Purpose of Ladies Trips
Author: Sabrielle McNair| Living Education Program Assistant
Why Bother?
The question is begged, “Why a ladies’ trip?” Most activities at Living Education throughout the year involve our male and female students together. However, God created men and women differently. What women are called to do within the church body differs from what men are called to do. Biblically, women build up their homes with tireless hands, Proverbs 14:1, “The wise woman builds her house,” (NKJV). She would dedicate herself to the family with all her thoughts, time, and actions. So, with the acknowledgement that men and women are different, the question is, “What key element is critical in the support for women today?”
In a word, connection. What can help prepare and support women’s roles in the church is connection. Female friendships and deep bonding are a rare commodity. In a barrage of media and online “connections,” the loneliness epidemic is rampant. And with isolation growing daily, how much more precious are those connections in our lives? The probability is that there are ladies in our church today, struggling to build connections of true meaning and support. So what can we do?
It may seem excessive, but how about a ladies’ trip or get-together? A group of women sets aside time to focus on one another and grow in understanding. If it’s a three-day weekend? Great! An evening after church? Perfect! Whatever time there is to be given to one another, the benefits are endless.
How is this different from fellowship at church? In many aspects, it isn’t. There is talking and perhaps food, the same as at church services. The differences are in the intentionality and focus. When women, just women, come together, there is a different atmosphere than when it’s a mixed group. Topics can be more personal and women-specific challenges that cannot typically be discussed at church, purely for propriety’s sake, can be examined and considered. There’s no hedging about what it is you’re going through. And another woman may be able to relate to your struggle. Still, that kind of trust takes time to develop. And with effort put in outside of church fellowship, that trust is more likely to develop.
What about the age difference? Isn’t it normal to have friends mostly your age? Friendships have come in all shapes, sizes, and ages through history. In your local congregation, there may only be one or two other individuals, even roughly close to your age. But plenty of women, older or younger than you, can serve by developing a friendship. We’re taught to develop these cross-generational relationships in the Bible (Titus 2:3-5, NKJV). Do we take that admonition seriously, and do our actions and time spent reflect that mindset?
How To?
What elements could specifically help facilitate female connection in your area? Consider a Ladies’ Trip. Maybe you’re already doing one—fantastic! Or perhaps you have tried organizing something for your area, only to find you lack the people interested or the time to do it. What factors can be considered when planning a ladies’ trip in your area?
First, the people. What is the demographic in your area? Younger ladies, older women, busy moms? Figure out who you are serving first and foremost. What can they do and afford, and how can you plan for the highest possible participation?
Second, the activity. For some areas, an active ladies’ weekend of touring a city may be the way to go. For others, an evening of getting together and developing a new skill, such as crafts or cooking, might work better. Whatever you plan, work to serve and include as many as you can, and change it up from time to time. There’s more than one way to make it happen.
Lastly, the focus. Let people know why you want them to come. Be open and honest, saying that it’s not about the thing you’re doing; it never is. Yes, it may be fun to see new places, eat good food, and perhaps crafting is your personal favorite. However, the primary goal of a women-only event like this is to develop connections. Letting people know you value the opportunity to grow in your relationship with them can show outgoing concern.
Why Ladies’ Trips? Because we need it. Women are different than men; the kind of emotional support required is different because it builds community within our church in ways no other activity can. And because connection, deep, meaningful, loyal, honest, connection is a precious commodity. It’s just one more way to promote it and strengthen the bonds of the God-given family of the church.
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_7390.jpg11251500Katelyn Wissingerhttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngKatelyn Wissinger2026-03-30 12:13:102026-04-20 09:00:00Ladies Trip to Charleston, SC
These posts summarize the forums that our Living Education-Charlotte students attend each week.
Mr. Brent Mitchell is an area pastor serving in the New York and New Jersey congregations. In a recent forum addressed to the students of Living Education-Charlotte, he delivered sound wisdom on how to build trust.
Trust in Teams
Trust in an essential ingredient in teams—however, the absence of this important trait can lead to poor outcomes and ineffective communication. Mr. Mitchell heavily emphasized the importance of trust and trustworthiness as not only being important virtues to embody, but also the fact that trust is an outcome—it is the product of action and effort.
Foundation of Trust
It’s important to understand trust as an outcome—this dimension changes it from a static trait into an active result. It should also prompt us to ask: who do we trust? And who trusts us? How effectively do we embody trustworthiness? As Mr. Mitchell explained, we learn to do so by developing in character and competence.
Building Trust
Mr. Mitchell described seven key character traits that help us exhibit trustworthiness toward others.
Honesty –Being able to honestly express our feelings and opinions based on what you know. Honesty is a critical aspect of being truly trustworthy. Proverbs 12:17 states: “He who speaks truth declares righteousness, but a false witness, deceit.” If we want to be truly trustworthy, we should be completely free from deceit.
Courage – Being honest and trustworthy takes courage, especially when we face external pressure.
A Pattern of Good Works – Having integrity and a reputation of being upstanding and moral goes a long way. We should be striving not only to build good, godly habits, but to do good to others.
Dependability – Other people may rely on us, and we should strive to be dependable for those who need our help. Dependability drives trust.
Transparency – Sometimes it’s important to share our cards with others and to be transparent about our side. This is an important factor in exhibiting trust.
Kindness – Kindness is deeply important for building trust. Helping people know that they are cared for and looking out for their best interests is deeply critical to facilitating trust in teams and interpersonal relationships.
Authenticity – Having a clear conscience helps us have a positive alignment of our actions and beliefs. This means being genuine—not pretending to be someone you’re not.
Embody Trustworthiness
Mr. Mitchell encouraged the students to give people time and work at exhibiting trustworthiness. He also referenced the Parable of the Talents—with the tools and opportunities God gives us to build relationships and work in teams, especially in the Church, we should take full advantage and work hard to be trustworthy. If we want others to trust us, be trustworthy.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
https://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/un-perfekt-handshake-4040911-1.jpg8171500David Markopouloshttps://www.lcgeducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/logo_basic-website-300x94.pngDavid Markopoulos2026-03-27 14:41:372026-03-27 14:42:09Mr. Brent Mitchell: The Result of Trust
