Book Worth Reading:
The Ego Is The Enemy by Ryan Holiday
Talk about humbling, in this book the author recounts General Sherman’s observation that Ulysses S. Grant after his presidency, "lost everything in an attempt to 'rival the millionaires, who would have given their all to have won any of his battles'". This book will grip you. Definitely worth a read.
Quote Worth Considering:
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn lived through terrible tyranny and refused to let it corrupt him. He knew it was impossible for an individual to fight against pervasive evil and corruption. Still, he said, our duty was simple. Our credo must be: “Let the lie come into the world, let it even triumph. But not through me.” Refuse the temptation of gossip and fear-mongering.
Bible Study Topic Worth Investigating:
I have always been fascinated by faith. It seems to be untouchable in some aspects. It is even mystical to some. However, faith is much more simple than we have considered. Take a look at Hebrews 11, James 2, and Luke 17. Then chase down the concept of hearing and its connection to faith. (That alone will change what or who you are willing to listen to.) it’s a very fun topic. I even preached a message about it awhile back called The Doctrine of Faith. Worth a listen? I don’t know. Ask someone else.
New Habit Worth Adapting:
I have now begun the process of daily journaling. Journaling is not something I ever thought I could actually follow through and do. I have struggled with the concept for years. What I have found in this and every other challenge for me is that there is always a better way to do it that will make you not hate it. I wish I had my journal entries from ten years ago. Alas, I will start now for the sake of my future self.
I will link the free app I use below. It’s a great app and you can do audio recording instead of a bunch of writing. I end up with about 5 minutes of daily reflection. I normally start by greeting my future self and then talking about my ideas. Maybe it’s not for everyone but I think it would be more helpful to you than you know. I assure you it’s safer to ramble to an encrypted app than to be a gossip.
Challenge Worth Accepting:
Do you pray as a family? Do you pray with someone else? We must have our own time and place of prayer, but I have seen too many times the value of a collective prayer. Perhaps your family is not interested in the concept of prayer. If that is the case then find yourself a prayer partner or even a small group. There is a power in group prayer. For families it may not be easy. It may not be comfortable. Perhaps too many hurtful words or bad situations make it seem uncomfortable. Refuse such intimidation. Recognize that the reward of prayer is greater than any risk it may have to your pride and stubborn nature.
My recommendation is this:
Form a prayer group. Either with family or peers. May be even two or three families group up.
Agree to meet once per week at the church. Arrange a beginning time and an ending time. Make it feasible. As much as you want to meet and pray 3 hours at a time it isn’t always practical. Remember this isn’t to replace daily prayer but rather to supplement. Make it 15-30mins.
Each person bring a prayer request to the group. One per week per person only. Make a shared note or text. Then pray over those things together.
This could launch into a Bible reading group as well. Shared accountability is unstoppable.