Support rather than enthusiasm

'Evangelicals have done a superb job of evangelizing people, bringing then to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord, but they are failing to provide believers with approaches to living that keep them going and growing in spiritual relationship with him....Many start the life of faith with great enthusiasm, only to discover themselves in difficulty shortly afterward. Their high hopes and good intentions seem to fade away. The spirit is willing, but the flesh proves weak.....People need support to keep them going when enthusiasm fails'

Alister McGrath quoted in 'Future Grace' by John Piper, P 10. 

If you are looking for a read that can help you ...'when enthusiasm fails'.... 'Future grace' is one to seek out, dwell in and take much encouragement from. 

The happy secret to better work

This book came onto my radar recently...

Bits and bobs

I love Matt Redmond's 'Random thoughts' and this one makes me want to go and buy the new Radiohead album.

Thinking Anglicans has a whole lot of stuff on the C of E getting managerial that includes a quote from Ric Thorpe who is splendid. Eugene Peterson is not a fan of the managerial in ministry.

Ever since I discovered my Myers Briggs profile on a course run by Deidre Tidy it has been of interest to me. Here is some stuff on what book to read depending on your MB profile.  If you'd like more this is about best leadership type by profile. Eugene Peterson hates Myers Briggs.

This open letter to someone having an affair is powerful, Eugene Peterson hates divorce and the pain it causes as he described to me once in his talks on Ephesians.

15 verses to get into you (h/t Challies)

This review by Denny Burk has horrified and stuck with me long after I read it as its implications will with you I imagine.  On that same topic, Mrs C and I watched 'Spotlight' which is a terrifying and compelling film not to be missed.

I happened upon this book list on prayer. On balance Eugene would I think approve.

A friend went to work with Jackie Pullinger for three weeks and while she was there read 'Different: living the holy life'. It impacted her greatly and she tells me it will you if you read it. Eugene is a fan of holiness.

Searching for a sermon I listened to recently, I found this post entitled 'The 7 Greatest sermons I've ever heard' . I plan to listen through a few of them for my holiday devotions, refreshment, inspiration and refilling. Interestingly, but not surprisingly, no Eugene. He's not everyone's cuppa.

I've revisited 'The Passionate church' and think it holds such good visual tools for discipleship.

In August I've seen and visited lots of people in our church and its been wonderful and so very encouraging. Looking out over all the people in our garden at our recent church BBQ I felt deeply moved (once again) by God's grace to us all.

Saturday blog-sweep

The wounds of a leader

The Olympic refugee team

Four ways the world will pressure you to conform

5 ways to wake up without a ministry

When trouble comes

Gospel coach

Tuesday bits and bobs

1. I caught this on Radio 4 'Brexit and the English Reformation' which was fascinating.

2. Someone spoke to me recently about this book which looks interesting.

3. A carer looking after my mum's friend gave her the book of the story of her life which is called 'Ordinary people finding Jesus'.  My mum read it and then gave it to me. I have just started it.

4. This article is interesting entitled 'How to accomplish more by doing less'

5. An interesting piece on respected theologian Wayne Grudem endorsing Donald Trump.

6. The founder of Ted pick his 'Top 5 talks'

7. 'Nine ways to keep your prayer life fresh' and 'Nine ways to keep your Bible reading fresh'.

8. John Piper reflects on when it is right to leave a church.

9. Louie Giglio on burnout

10. What to do if you are in a spiritual dry spell.

Focus 2016

They only have one of the talks up which was by Archie Coates but it will give you a taste of Focus.