In life, as with hiking, things are found along the way. Below is a good idea list (ideas, some fun, quotes, etc.) with some of those discoveries. Using the blog’s themes, check out the resources below.* And have a great month!
Nothing Wasted Life Quote:
The story of Jesus is one of coming into lives and disrupting the rhythm, the well-worn path, bringing something new. (Source)
Extra: Just for Fun
Olympic Mistakes?: With the Olympics in full swing, here is a fun video of gymnasts pretending their mistake didn’t happen. Pretty impressive. I’d give points for the poise and creativity of some of these!
Theology & Spiritual Life
- Good thoughts on increasing our awareness of God’s presence in work, including:
“God’s presence is never in question, but our awareness of his presence is what makes the difference between a job and a calling.”
- Refreshing! The role of character in ministry has come up often lately. This article provided a good reflection and repentance for me in Gary Thomas’ look at the importance of character, especially humility, in ministry (paid or unpaid) via Francis of Assisi. One tidbit:
“…humility was valued even over education when “qualifying” someone for ministry. The thinking was that anyone could get a degree but it takes genuine spiritual experience to walk in humility.”
Wise Living/Productivity
- Both on rhythms of work:
- Very interesting conversation of the best number of hours to work in a day.
- Cal Newport in a brief post explores an interesting quote by Thoreau on the importance of space to doing good work.
- People’s approaches to their daily rhythms is always an interest to me. Here is a post from writer Tim Grahl on a “ultimate writer’s productivity guide” that also offers his own concrete example of a daily rhythm.
Relationships
- Suicide & the Church: An interview with a pastor who was previously an ER doctor on this important topic. Helpful practical info for pastors and church leaders in a short article. Including how modern culture engages suicide and that along with modern learning the ancient ways can also help.
- When to give a cellphone to your child? Three different opinions collected from various authorities by the Art of Manliness folks.
Leadership (self or others)
- Burnout: Whether ourselves or supporting those we care or lead, Redeeming Productivity provides a video discussion of six types of work burnout AND how to deal with it. Worth checking out!
- Whether leading yourself or others, there are various ways we serve others and bring God’s presence. Check out these three key ones and a great true story illustrating the importance from Gary Thomas.
- “I love you.”
- “I’m proud of you.”
- “I believe in you.”
*A listing here is not an endorsement of everything from that person or organization.
Image Credit: Ben Branum of Creative Studio Productions.
