BlakeAtwood.com

Go here to see the full list, but these would be my three favorites:

I have been very slowly working through Uprising by Erwin McManus because I keep reading other books. This is not meant as a slight to Mr. McManus. In fact, I think I keep finding other things to read because Erwin challenges me too deeply. To wit, from today’s reading:

We are seldom afraid when our opposition is smaller than us. When we keep our challenges manageable, we not only manage our fear, but squelch our faith. One way to deal with our fears is to surround ourselves with security and predictability. We may look courageous when in fact all we’ve done is minimize our risk. Whenever God calls us to something, it inspires not only faith, but also fear. God always summons us to something bigger than ourselves. When he calls us to battle, the opposition will always be greater than the strength we have.

Last year I resolved not to make any resolutions. My reasoning? It’d be the one resolution I knew I could keep. Mission accomplished!

But this year is different. This year has been very different. So much so that I can’t resolve to do anything new. I have to revolt against what I’ve been doing.

I have to make New Year’s Revolutions.

I will fight against my past complacencies: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, relational. I’ve let far too many things slide because of my laziness, or forgetfulness, or selfishness, or ignorance. But I’m keen to my blindsides now, aware that my inaction breeds habits that must be forced out by… force.

By revolution.

Revolting against my sinfulness, I will fight to put God above all.
Revolting against my selfishness, I will fight to love my wife as Christ loves the church.
Revolting against my laziness, I will fight to better apply myself at my work.
Revolting against my indolence, I will fight to exercise and to get outside much more often.
Revolting against my ignorance, I will fight to read more and write more.

By contrasting who I’ve been with who I want to be, I can see the path set before me. It’s not an easy path; it takes dedication, commitment, perseverance, endurance, patience, and a whole host of other qualities that I possess in small qualities or rarely display at length. But it’s a burden worth bearing, because the reward is so great.

Even then, remember…

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. – Matthew 11:28-30