Best of the Week for January 8
In Best of the Week we link to a handful of the best articles, videos, books, etc. that we have come across in the last week. We hope this will point you to some of the right places and give you gospel-rich tools and thoughts for life and mission.
7 Killer Steps to the Best Missional Year Yet
“I remember the year when my whole life crashed. I was in the height of ministry; leading small groups, having foster kids, and writing fervently…Much of life stopped. Yet shockingly, my heart to serve Him missionally became more determined than ever…Scripturally, Jesus and His disciple’s mission wasn’t easy. Yet they accomplished much for the Kingdom. How did they resolve to live missionally, and how can we too this year?”
These seven points are insightful and timely. Most of what will help us to live out the mission God has given us are being intentional and planning well. These seven steps will help with both.
Church Planting in Paradise
“At the same time, we seek to be distinct—“unlike” the culture. In a culture that worships the creation, we worship the Creator. This has implications for how we view relationships, kids, finances, recreation, hospitality, and time. Practically, in a society that lives for the weekend, gathering on Sunday becomes a declaration of allegiance.”
This one is written about the suburbs, which we in Waxahachie technically are not, but everything here applies to us. Give a thoughtful reading to this and ask the Lord to give you 1-2 steps to take.
Apologies Ad Nauseam: Parents and Repentance
“We might think that God is redeeming our sinfulness against our kids by teaching them about confession, forgiveness, and a parent willing to participate with them in it. And that’s true. But where we may run amok is forgetting that our confession and receiving of forgiveness should be effecting something significant in us. The way God redeems us from our sin isn’t by keeping us in it, but by moving us out of it.”
This was a faithful word to me. I apologize to my kids a lot more than I wish I had to. And I see God doing things through my weakness. I also want to repent, and I should.
12 Gospel-Centered Books on Marriage and Marriage Counseling
These are great books to help you pursue godly marriage that is centered around Jesus instead of humans. I am not familiar with them all, but I love the ones I am. If you’re looking for a good read and want to take some steps toward a stronger, more Jesus-focused marriage, grab one of these.
How to Read More Books in 2018
“Many of us recognize that reading is a key way to gain wisdom and insight. But it’s not always easy to find the time or motivation to read books.”
Following a post on “12 Books On…” here’s some help in getting some of them read. I’m guilty here, and I found the first point a really helpful and so doable encouragement.
Why Do You Give to the Church
This is the first in a short series of Bible study videos on what it really means to be a “cheerful” giver. Very motivating for me.
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