The words to an old hymn have been rattling around in my head and heart the last week. The chorus goes, "Trust and obey, for there is no other way." The words have been a great comfort in a couple of situations that are dominating my life right now.

One involves the care of my nearly 88-year-old mother who still lives alone, but is in failing health, and my attempting to do what needs to be done for her from 1,400 miles away. It is very sad to watch someone who has been so healthy and independent all of her life to begin depending on others for so much. On my trip to Ohio, I had to help her face the fact that she can no longer drive.

Some at the 18,000-member church that is hosting The Gathering 2010, April 21-23, have volunteered to take in house guests for the event to reduce costs for stores strapped for cash.

The bookstore at Gateway Church in Dallas sold around 100 copies of Caroline Leaf's new book, The Gift in You (Thomas Nelson), at a special signing. Customers also purchased approximately 50 copies of her previous book Who Switched Off My Brain? Controlling Toxic Thoughts and Emotions.

Define: What are the best-sellers for your store? Are they similar to those found on many of the industry best-seller lists?

Today's P.O.S. systems can help you determine the best-sellers for the existing product mix of your store. By selecting various time frames and product departments within the report generator, you can develop a specialized best-seller list for your store.

Engraving Bibles or other products means a commitment of money, personnel and time. Selecting a machine to purchase is perhaps the easiest part of this decision. There are several machines that do a great job in imprinting and are reasonably priced.

But, just having an engraver does not guarantee your staff will do a great job. Engraving takes patience and practice. There will be plenty of mistakes, and your staff will need lots of encouragement before they feel comfortable providing this service.

According to a recent study by the Barna Group on Easter beliefs and attitudes, while most Americans consider the holiday to be a religious one, fewer identify the resurrection of Jesus as the underlying meaning.

Retailers who help choose the winners of the 2010 Christian Retailing Retailers Choice Awards will be entered into a drawing to receive some of the 270-plus nominated products, absolutely free-but the ballot closes today.

Which approach do you employ in your store and why? Share your experiences, thoughts and ideas on how to best manage your Bible department with others at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

1 Chron. 29:12, New International Version