The Best of 2012
This is a little late, but I thought I’d share the top nine posts from last year as selected by Angela, my virtual assistant with eaHelp. Thanks to Angela for reading over last year’s posts and picking out her favorites. Don’t miss the bonus quote at the end. That one is my pick, and it’s a good one.
You’ll notice that a lot of the posts have to do with patience and perseverance. It was that kind of year for me. This year, so far, is much different.
I’ve noticed something. People in our churches are used to opening their Bibles during the sermon. I assume that many of them are reading their Bibles during the week at home. But, except for during the sermon, and maybe small groups and Bible studies, Bibles remain closed…
I am wondering what church would look like if we didn’t put the Bibles away so quickly.
Whatever you’re facing today, take heart. Wilberforce persevered for 46 years. Hang in there.
I’m good at some things. Waiting isn’t one of them. “Nothing is more difficult than to give God the honor of relying upon him, when he hides himself from us, or delays his assistance,” writes Calvin. This is a something I’m finding to be true.
The Other Side of the Boundary
It’s not like I’m giving up my boundaries. But I’m continuing to learn from brothers and sisters on the other side of these boundaries. I’m continually humbled by what I see every time I do so.
With a great little quote from Seth Godin on not giving up.
I spent a lot of time watering mud last week. Nothing seemed to be happening. I felt a little foolish, actually.
That all changed on Saturday when I went outside and saw this…
The way to avoid stagnation, individually and as churches, is to confront our fears and idols. Disrupt yourself.
Early last year, Ryan Sim put his house in Toronto for sale and moved an hour east to Ajax to start a new church, Redeemer Church. I’m excited to ask Ryan about his church planting efforts in this short interview.
Relentless. Not a bad word for anyone who’s been gripped by the gospel, not to mention church planters.
Bonus
My favorite quote from last year comes from an interview with Scotty Ward Smith:
Live as close to Jesus as you can. Constantly preach the gospel to yourself. Walk closely with a “gospel posse”. Risk or rust for the rest of your life. Love one spouse well the rest of your life. Never be surprised to discover how broken the bride of Jesus is; how immature and selfish you can be; or how much God loves you in Jesus. Ache for heaven and serve in this moment.
