Tag: Spiritual Formation

Encouraging Words from Gary Thomas

The Beautiful Fight is Gary Thomas’ new book.  It is a powerful work about spiritual transformation.  A few years ago I read his book A Sacred Marriage.  I was very impressed.  Since then, I have read many other books written by Gary Thomas.  I am not sure what it is that draws me to his work.  I… Continue reading Encouraging Words from Gary Thomas

Under Construction

Yesterday, I heard Tom Long speak for several hours at Truett Seminary (Baylor University).  He spoke on "Preaching the Gospel of Mark."  I have heard him speak on several different occasions and always come away with such an appreciation for his passion and his storytelling.  Yesterday, as I was listening to Long speak, I thought… Continue reading Under Construction

Question: How Does Startling Economic News Impact Your Spiritual Life?

You’ve seen the news.  Apparently, this economy is in a real crisis.  No doubt, you are watching, along with the rest of us, as those in Washington seek to formulate a plan to help this economy.  The proposal by Treasury Secretary Paulson will cost $700 billion dollars.  This week, Washington is trying to come to… Continue reading Question: How Does Startling Economic News Impact Your Spiritual Life?

Getting Back to the Center (Part 2)

This is now day six since I have moved from Windows to Mac (MacBook Pro).  It has been a fairly smooth transition so far.  Occasionally, I will come across some little thing that is just different than what might happen with Windows.  (Such as attempting to "right click" on the Mac the way I would… Continue reading Getting Back to the Center (Part 2)

For Those Who are Willing to Read Slowly

After all, some truths are meant to be savored.  They are more like a good steak in which you desire to savor every bite.  Far too many people come across important statements and treat them like a hot dog at the ball game.  Scarf it down quickly and get on with eating something else.  … Continue reading For Those Who are Willing to Read Slowly

The Ordinary Moments That Shape and Form

I have now read about a hundred pages in Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered by James Wilhoit.  He speaks of what forms us as believers.  While classes, sermons, and special seminars may be significant in our formation, ultimately the most important formative experiences are those everyday life experiences and the way we approach… Continue reading The Ordinary Moments That Shape and Form

Waiting

Richard Foster, who for many years has worked with Renovare, has written about waiting.  Foster is the author of several good works related to spiritual formation including Spiritual Disciplines, Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home, and Life with God.   Foster writes:  Waiting!  It is among the most universal of human experiences.  Waiting to begin school.… Continue reading Waiting

On Being a Jesus People — Together

Are you a part of a Christian group?  Are you married?  Do you have children?  Do you work with a team of ministers?  Are you a part of a group of elders?  Are you in a leadership role in which you work with others who are also in leadership roles?  Are you a part of… Continue reading On Being a Jesus People — Together