Who is Dave?

I’m old and hopefully wise too with over 30 years of ministry experience as a pastor and missionary in many contexts and cultures. I am an ordained minister,  have a Masters of Divinity, and am a certified Spiritual Director through Sustainable Faith. I am comfortable connecting with persons from other faith traditions or with someone who may be in a season of doubt. I have my own experience with grief, pain, and disappointment and have found that places of struggle, times of transition, and moments of grief are fertile soil for personal transformation. I meet with people at Winning at Home in the Holland/Zeeland area, at my home office in the Muskegon area, or virtually. In my free time I like to read, hike, travel, and go fast on my bike.

What other services do you provide?

I offer premarital counseling and enjoy officiating weddings. I am a certified facilitator for Prepare/Enrich which is an amazing tool for marriage coaching. I enjoy helping people gain clarity on what their best play is vocationally. I am a certified coach using the Identity Profile Self Awareness Tool (IPSAT). Developing a high level of self awareness is the key to growing as a leader and learning how to lead others. My wife and I are both ordained ministers and we often tag team for marriage conferences, preaching, and contemplative spiritual retreats. References upon request.

What is spiritual direction?

Spiritual Direction provides a space to reflect on your life, invite God’s presence, and pay attention to the movement of the Holy Spirit. Spiritual direction centers on your relationship with God, with the goal of awakening and strengthening that relationship. The purpose is to help you discern God’s presence in the midst of your struggles and questions. The focus is less about you living for God and more about you living with God.

How is spiritual direction different from therapy, coaching or mentoring?

Spiritual Direction is not problem-centered like therapy nor skills-centered like mentoring/coaching. They certainly overlap, but the focus of receiving direction is developing your relationship with God and fostering a deeper understanding of yourself. The typical rhythm for Spiritual Direction is monthly; this allows for the slow and steady work of God to create new patterns in your life.

Who would benefit from spiritual direction?

You! Honestly, anyone can experience significant transformation by slowing down and leaning on God. If you have grown weary, if you have become disillusioned, if you have been wounded, then Spiritual Direction could provide the space you need for growth and healing. Receiving Direction has the potential to restore a quiet confidence to your soul, grow your connection to Jesus, and increase your love for others. Pastors and Ministry Leaders in particular can benefit from proactive tending to their soul.