A vivid point of light

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”- Psalm 119:105

“A ‘life verse’ is a power clarifying tool when it comes to simplifying our lives.”- Bill Hybels

In Chapter 8 (“From Drifting to Focused: Claiming God’s Call on Your Life”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels tells of the time he went sailing with his dad from South Haven, Michigan to Chicago.  Bill was eight years old.  On the way they encountered a massive storm, which they fought for over ten hours.  Finally, in the distance, they spotted a vivid point of light- the Chicago Breakwater Lighthouse.  The safety of the harbor was near.

The experience was so seared into Bill’s mind that he painted a picture of that vivid point of light.  It hangs in his kitchen to this day.  In life, Pastor Hybels explains, we need a light directing us back to safe harbor:

“. . . we all need a vivid point of light from Scripture- a particular verse that resonates with us personally, to guide our paths and give us a reference point, no matter the size of the waves.”

When adversity overwhelms us, a life-verse can guide us back to the things that matter most.  In the next blog, Pastor Hybels discusses how he chose his life verse as well as the power of adopting a life verse.

Today’s question: What verse or verses immediately come to mind as a potential life verse?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Choosing your life verse”

A vivid point of light

Deepening your inner circle

Bill Hybels concludes Chapter 7 of Simplify with a discussion of Jesus’ relational circles.  Pastor Hybels states Jesus showed us how to maintain healthy friendship circles.

According to Luke 10:1, Jesus had a large circle of at least seventy-tw0 friends who were close enough to be called disciples.  Jesus also hand-selected His “small” group of twelve disciples.  Finally, Jesus needed the intimacy of an inner circle, so from the Twelve He chose Peter, James, and John.  A second inner circle consisted of three siblings- Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.  They were “kitchen table” friends with whom Jesus could relax.

Pastor Hybels suggests the following activities for deepening your inner circle:

1.  Take small steps- don’t dive in head first.


2.  Invest time- schedule time for deepening friendships.


3.  Create shared experiences- a meal, a hobby, volunteering.


4.  Wait for the volley- be sure you’re not doing all the initiating.


5.  Take off your mask (first)- share a small truth about yourself and see how the other person responds.


6.  In a crisis, show up- Pastor Hybels states: “Deep friendships are forged in the fire of pain.”

The author concludes: “When you simplify your friendships, you are well on your way to leading a richer, fuller, more joy-filled life.  You are on a path toward a simplified life worth living.”

Today’s question: What are the qualities of your deepest friendships?  Please share.

Coming Monday: the latest Short Meditation, “Yo Cliff!”

Tomorrow’s blog: “A vivid point of light”

Deepening your inner circle

Three levels of friendship

Bill Hybels continues Chapter 7 of Simplify with a description of three levels of friendship to help us determine the depth of friendship we have with friends and acquaintances.  Pastor Hybels explains: “Having a clear understanding of where each person first in your life helps you clarify your expectations.”

1.  Circumstantial friends.  Bill defines circumstantial friends as “friends by circumstance, and when circumstances change, the friendship ends.”  Life moves on.  Circumstantial friends come and go.  Circumstantial friends matter, and occasionally they become true friends.

2.  True Friends- for a Season.  The author notes that many of us will invest in and totally enjoy some very meaningful, true friendships.  Yet, we shouldn’t be disappointed if life reshuffles the deck and one of our true friends moves on.  Bill postulates that the majority of our true friendships actually will be seasonal rather than lifelong.  Setting the bar of expectation too high may not be realistic, considering how long friendships last in the real  world.

3.  Lifelong friends.  Circumstances and chemistry may align in such a way that friendships really do last a lifetime.  Pastor Hybels adds:

“For obvious reasons, we cannot force or manufacture lifelong friendships.  They are forged in the trenches of everyday life- and, by definition, they take a lifetime to develop.”

Today’s question: How have you been blessed by true or lifelong friends?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Deepening your inner circle”

Three levels of friendship

Bridge builder

Today Bill Hybels concludes his discussion of Solomon’s seven character traits (red warning lights) that are offensive to God (Chapter 7 of Simplify).

4 & 5.  Looking for Trouble (“a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that  . . . rush into evil”).  Solomon’s warning is to people who have no qualms about taking advantages of someone else’s vulnerability or gullibility to make a quick buck.  Pastor Hybels notes you can tell when people are up to no good because they go out of their way to justify their schemes.

In God’s eyes, even “corner cutting” and “little integrity lapses” are a big deal.  Compromising one’s morals is a slippery slope to avoid at all cost.

6.  Spreading Gossip and Slander (“a false witness who pours out lies”).  In Proverbs 11:13, Solomon writes: “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.”  Pastor Hybels reminds us we need to be truth tellers and confidence keepers.

7.  Divisive (“a person who stirs up conflict”).  Avoid a person who spreads dissension.  The author observes: “It doesn’t take long to figure out whether someone is fundamentally a polarizer or unifier; a bridge builder or a bomb thrower.”  Choose close friends who are as committed to being a bridge builder as you are.  It is a big deal to hang with people of sound Christian character, people who exhibit the foundational fruits of the Holy Spirit.

Today’s question: Which of Solomon’s character traits are most difficult for you to avoid?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Three levels of friendship”

Bridge builder

Red warning lights

Bill Hybels continues Chapter 7 of Simplify by encouraging you to take an assessment of your friendship circles.  This assessment is vital to simplifying your relational world.  It’s being a good steward of your life and taking a realistic look at the natural influence of others on you.

In Proverbs 6:16-20, Solomon lists seven character traits offensive to God.  These traits are so offensive they should act as red warning lights.  The first three red warning lights are discussed today.

1.  Pride (“haughty eyes”).  Pastor Hybels states that people with haughty eyes look down on others.  The word arrogance comes to mind.  Bill explains the divisive consequences of pride:

“Pride is corrosive, and it rubs off.  You’re going to have a hard time developing Christlike humility and thinking of yourself with sober judgment if your close friends are arrogant, full of pride, and looking down their noses at everyone else.”

2.  Dishonesty (“a lying tongue”).  Most people understand the importance of steering clear of blatant liars.  But it is just as important to keep our distance from people who consider little white lies acceptable.  Pastor Hybels cautions that omissions also are lies.  Silence implicitly signifies agreement, and it’s no different from overtly telling a lie.

3.  Mean- spiritedness (“hands that shed innocent blood”).  Here Solomon warns us to be wary of those using their power to exploit others.  Pastor Hybels observes that, in today’s violence-saturated world, it’s hard to cultivate a gentle heart.  Yet, in the face of raw violence in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus healed the servant’s ear.  We need more of the Holy Spirit.

Today’s question: How are your true friends “imitators of Christ” to you?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Bridge builder”

 

Red warning lights

Stupid rubs off

“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”- Proverbs 13:20

In Chapter 7 (“From Isolated to Connected: Deepening Your Relational Circles”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels begins by asking: “Beyond your family, how many friends would show up at your funeral?”  Throughout Bill’s years in the pastoral ministry, he has observed that most people guess high- way high.  People have fewer friends than they estimate.

Pastor Hybels lists the hallmark ingredients of a true friendship: knowing and being known; accepting and being accepted; serving and being served; celebrating and being celebrated.  He adds that “friendships require regular evaluation, pruning, and strengthening.”

There’s an expression in the South that “stupid rubs off.”  A few years ago Pastor Hybels went to a Chicago Blackhawks game that included six fights and a bench-clearing brawl.  As thousands of people exited the stadium, elbow-throwing, pushing, and shoving ensued.  Bill asks, “Can anger and violence rub off?”

Solomon’s statement in Proverbs 13:20 is absolutely true.  Pastor Hybels summarizes:

“When we surround ourselves with foolish people, we become like them.  And when we surround ourselves with wise, mature, good people, their high character rubs off on us too.”

Today’s question: What wise Christian friends have been a blessing during your desert, transition time?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Red warning lights”

Stupid rubs off

Speak words of truth

Bill Hybels concludes his discussion of four steps that help us partner with God to conquer fear.

STEP 4: Speak Words of Truth.  Pastor Hybels emphasizes that the truth wins, every time.  Therefore, it is critical that we speak truthfully when fear threatens to take control of our minds and emotions.  The author notes that there are three types of truthful words we can speak to counter our fears and establish God’s peace:

a.  Self-talk.  Pastor Hybels references the Mennen aftershave commercials of the 1970s, in which a man would slap himself in the face and proclaim, “Thanks, I needed that!”  When fear overwhelms us, perhaps it would be helpful to give ourselves a mental slap in the face.  Bill encourages:

“Stop believing that you can’t push back panicky feelings with the power of Christ and the power of truthful words, because you can.”

b.  Scripture.  When we face our fears, God does His part.  His presence is tangible.  The Bible is filled with words of truth to keep our fears from controlling us.  Speaking Scripture truthfully is a skill that grows stronger with practice, eventually becoming second nature. It’s powerful weapon in our arsenal against fear.

c.  Prayer.  Pastor Hybels believes that sometimes we pray “nonspecific, if-it-be your will types of prayers, rather than simply telling God exactly what we want Him to do.”  Whatever the outcome, we have the assurance God is with us and can expect His peace to follow.

Today’s question: What Bible verse most clearly speaks God’s words of truth to you?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Stupid rubs off”

Speak words of truth

Face fear head- on

“One ought never to turn one’s back on a threatened danger and try to run away from it.  If you do that, you will double the danger.  But if you meet it promptly and without flinching, you will reduce the danger by half.”- Winston Churchill

“We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”- 2 Corinthians 10:5

In today’s blog, Bill Hybels presents the third step that helps us partner with God to conquer fear.

STEP 3: Face Fear Head- on.  Pastor Hybels notes that studies have shown avoiding fears only causes them to escalate.  On the other hand, when someone takes the time to understand their fear’s origin, expose its lies, and face it head-on, that fear begins to diminish.  The author explains:

“The only way you will conquer your fear is to reach out for the steadying hand of God and face the thing you’re afraid of.  You have to lean into it and walk through it.  There’s just no other way.”

The Holy Spirit will help us discern the origins of our fears and reveal Satan’s lies.  Our part is to acknowledge our fears, identify them for what they are or are not, and take steps to free ourselves from the bondage of destructive fears.

Giving into fear is tempting because it brings temporary relief.  However, there’s a major downside to avoidance.  Avoidance legitimizes and affirms fear.  Surrendering our fears to Jesus brings order and discipline to our thinking.

Today’s question: What is your biggest barrier to being able to face fear head- on?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Speak words of truth”

Face fear head- on

Catastrophizing

“When he [the devil] lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”- Luke 8:44

Today in Chapter 6 of Simplify, Bill Hybels covers the first two steps that help us partner with God to conquer fear.

STEP 1: Understanding Fear’s Origin.  In order to conquer a fear, we first must understand where that fear originates.  Dr. Joseph Wolpe, a twentieth-century South African psychiatrist, discovered a single traumatic childhood event tormented many people their entire life.   Although a casual observer may not view that traumatic event as all that terrifying, it was scary enough to that person to start knocking over dominoes, causing him/her to erect walls of avoidance.

STEP 2: Expose Fear’s Lies.  Pastor Hybels emphasizes that deception is evil’s primary strategy for bringing about our defeat and destruction.  When destructive fear strikes, we manufacture worst-case scenarios.  The technical term for this is catastrophizing.  The author explains:

“The evil one loves to help you spin your worst-case scenarios, because they consume, distract, and derail you.  When fear has you in a stranglehold, it’s easy to take your eyes off of (sic) God’s power and provision.

Pastor Hybels cautions that if we decide to keep silent about the catastrophic lies spinning in our head, we invite a whole new list of troubles our way.  As Bill has stated previously, the truth is our friend.

Today’s question: What Bible verses have helped you overcome any tendency toward catastrophizing?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Face fear head- on”

 

Catastrophizing

Constructive fear

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.  Rather, by afraid of the One who can destroy both body and soul in hell.”- Matthew 10:28

Bill Hybels continues Chapter 6 of Simplify with the assertion that you can stand up and fight when fear invites chaos and tragedy to reign.  All that’s needed is a set of fear-fighting skills.  However, Pastor Hybels adds, some fears should not be fought.  They should be heeded.  He calls such fears constructive fears.

For example, a certain amount of fear can motivate you to do your best on a huge work presentation or a school exam.  Constructive fear also warns us of deeper, spiritual dangers as well- such as things that could imperil our eternal destiny.  Yet, to lead simplified lives, we must defeat another kind of fear.

Pastor Hybels describes destructive fear as “baseless, useless, and crippling. . . . It simply nips away at our emotional well-being, cluttering and complicating our lives by erecting false barriers in our work, relationships, and even our recreational pursuits.”  Destructive fear keeps you from fulfilling the mission God specifically has assigned to you.  The author believes that, according to the Bible, the journey to overcoming fear is a joint venture in which we partner with God.

Next Pastor Hybels presents four steps to help us enter this joint venture with God and do our part to bring about freedom from fear.

Today’s question: What helps you differentiate between constructive fear and destructive fear?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Catastophizing”

Ministry Milestone : On October 19, 2015, Crown of Compassion hosted its 200,000th visitor.  All thanks to God!

Constructive fear

Peace busters

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you.  I do not give as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”- John 14:27

“Simplifying our lives means eradicating pockets of fear wherever they lurk.”- Bill Hybels

In Chapter 6 (“From Anxious to Peaceful: Conquering Your Fears”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels observes that while we may have been successful in simplifying significant areas of our lives and look good on the outside, we’re in danger of collapse if fear is running rampant beneath the surface.  Yet, Pastor Hybels states, God desires that His peace would prevail in our lives.  The author reiterates:

“Fear is the fundamental barrier to peace, and it’s a deal-breaker when it comes to leading a simplified life.  Fear is debilitating. . . . No matter how good we look on the outside, we will crumble if fear has seeped beneath the veneer of our lives.”

Peace busters, Pastor Hybels notes, rob us of the peace God desires for each of us.  Common peace busters include financial pressure, relational breakdown, unexpected bad news, moral failure, and impending mortality.  Job loss, whether expected or unexpected, certainly fits in here.

What do you do when peace busters crash into your life?  Do you rationalize that you’re a natural worrier or resign yourself to living with low grade anxiety and fear?  Pastor Hybels encourages that you can live in shalom regardless of the peace busters threatening to undermine your life.

Today’s question: What are the major peace busters in your life right now?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Constructive fear”

 

 

Peace busters

Life- shattering injustices

Today Bill Hybels concludes his presentation of three categories to help us determine our response to those who have wronged us (Chapter 5 of Simplify).

CATEGORY 3: Life- Shattering Injustices.  Pastor Hybels defines a Category 3 wrongdoing as a “life- shattering injustice that comes your way, often out of nowhere, an unthinkable tragedy that forever changes the landscape of your life (for a noteworthy response to such injustice, read Victoria Ruvolo’s book “No Room for Vengeance” . . . In Justice and Healing).”

Working toward relational reconciliation minimizes the seeds of bitterness that could flourish in our hearts.  Forgiveness for Category 3 offenses only is possible by God’s grace.  Pastor Adam Hamilton, senior pastor of The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, describes the two dimensions of forgiveness:

“There is your internal release of bitterness, anger, or desire for revenge, and there is the extension of mercy toward the one who has wronged you.  Regarding your release of anger, bitterness, and desire for revenge, you must forgive.  The more serious the wound, the longer the process may take.  But failure to forgive in this sense gives power to the one who wronged you. . . .  But in the second dimension of forgiveness . . . we may actually harm wrongdoers if we extend mercy too quickly.  Wrestling with the hurt they have caused is part of their redemptive process, and for  Christians, redemption should always be the goal.”

Today’s question: Which of the three categories of offenses have you experienced?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Peace busters”

Life- shattering injustices

Where"s the fire?

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”- Isaiah 26:3

“We are not at peace with others because we are not at peace with ourselves, and we are not at peace with ourselves because we are not at peace with God.”- Thomas Merton

“Hurry is not of the devil.  Hurry is the devil.”- Carl Jung

This August Vicki and I vacationed in Door County (Wisconsin) to celebrate her 60th birthday.  While participating in a Door County tradition- the fish boil- at the White Gull Inn (Fish Creek), a couple sitting with us mentioned a wonderful cruise they had taken on a 1937 Chicago fireboat.  Connecting with my Chicago roots replenishes my soul, so I was all in.

The leisurely ninety-minute cruise began in Sturgeon Bay.  Leaving the harbor, the fireboat traveled down a man-made canal to a lighthouse at the entrance to Lake Michigan, where it then turned around.  I saw gulls, terns, cormorants, great blue herons, and a kingfisher.  On this peaceful Monday morning, no one was asking, “Where’s the fire?”

Longtime Tonight Show host Johnny Carson once quipped that a New York Minute is the interval between a Manhattan traffic light turning green and the guy behind you honking his horn.  Impatience and a hair-trigger temper are symptoms of soul-fatigue.  Pastor Bill Hybels of Willow Creek Community Church describes what happens when our souls are in a state of unrest:

“When we are depleted, we get scattered.  We lose our ability to focus, and we jump from one distraction to the next with little to show for it.”

Restlessness and unhappiness often have a negative reciprocal relationship.  Asking ourselves “Where’s the fire?” potentially deepens our despair.  External freedom is our misguided goal.  Only soul-freedom gives us release, rest, and God’s peace.   Over four centuries ago, French mathematician and Christian philosopher Blaise Pascal remarked that all human unhappiness stems from a single fact- people are unable to stay quietly in their own room.   Solitude liberates us from the fires of this world and positions us to be receptive to God’s whispers.  As Martin Luther writes, soul-freedom comes through joyful faith in God’s lordship and provision:

“Faith is a free surrender and joyous wager on the unseen, unknown, untested goodness of God.”

Through it all, it is well with my soul.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0dIWJ4t4Jg

 

 

 

 

Where"s the fire?

Legitimate wounds

Bill Hybels continues Chapter 5 of Simplify with the second category to help us determine our response to those who have wronged us.

CATEGORY 2: Legitimate wounds.  Pastor Hybels notes Category 2 wrongdoings are more complex, leading to legitimate wound requiring resolution and healing.  Sooner or later all of us experience legitimate wounds.  They are a consequence of living in a sinful world.

When we’ve been wounded, wondering about justice is a legitimate question.  As the innocent party, it only seems fair we should be compensated in some way.  However, Pastor Hybels identifies two problems with this sort of worldly thinking:

a.  seeking justice doesn’t provide anywhere near the satisfaction the aggrieved person believes it will

b.  seeking revenge misdirects our energy focus and doesn’t lead to a simplified life

By itself, justice-seeking doesn’t lead to relational peace, although there is a time and a place for justice.  At the end of the day, Bill stresses, each of us must come to terms with what has happened to us, and we must forgive.  Clinging to a desire for justice and revenge costs our offender nothing.  It only enslaves us.  Pastor Hybels concludes:

“Forgiveness means we fully acknowledge the wrong that was done to us, grieve over what has been lost, and yet, eventually let the other person off the hook.”

Today’s question: If you have been able to forgive those responsible for your downsizing or vocation loss, who or what has been most instrumental in facilitating that process?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: the new Short Meditation, “Where’s the fire?”

Legitimate wounds

Minor offenses

“It [love] is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”- 1 Corinthians 13:5

Today Bill Hybels discusses the first category to help us respond to people who have offended us (Chapter 5 of Simplify).

CATEGORY 1: Minor Offenses.  Pastor Hybels defines minor offenses as “wrongdoing” that is nothing more than a slight.  The offended party, however, has lost track of reality and is unable to see the other person’s perspective on the issue.  The offended party feels victimized.

The author states it is helpful to right-size the impact of a Category 1 minor offense, taking a step back from the perceived offense in order to view that offense with greater objectivity.  Doing so simplifies our interpersonal world and keeps our relationship slates clean.  Pastor Hybels writes:

“If you have enough of God’s grace filling your heart, you can see the situation in its proper perspective.”

On the other hand, an overly-strong response to a Category 1 offense should rouse our curiosity.  Why did such a minor slight trigger a disproportionate response?  Or is there a reason we’re too embarrassed to admit?  In either situation, a minor offense can serve as a directional arrow, pointing us to an area where we need to grow.

Today’s question: What minor offenses have elicited a disproportionate response from you?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Legitimate wounds”

Minor offenses

Relational breakdowns

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”- Romans 5:8

“You can tell a lot about someone’s heart by how that person prays when he or she has been wronged.”- Bill Hybels

In Chapter 5 (“From Wounded to Whole: Making Room for Forgiveness”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels points out that, at times, we grossly underestimate the emotional and physical toll of living with relational rift:

“Relational breakdowns extract energy from us.  They take up head space and heart space.  They hang over us like a dark, grey cloud.”

Pastor Hybels notes it is impossible to live simplified lives unless we attend to broken relationships. The prayer Jesus prayed while hanging on the cross- “Father, forgive them, for the do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34)- is a major foundation of the Christian faith.  In the midst of our sinfulness and wrongdoing, Jesus has forgiven us.

As Pastor Hybels observes, it is human nature to put ourselves before others.  However, we cause harm when we do so.  The true condition of our soul is revealed by our prayers.  The author has developed three categories to help us respond to those who have wronged us: minor offenses, legitimate wounds, and life-shattering injustices.  The first category will be discussed in tomorrow’s blog.

Today’s question: In what relational breakdowns do you need to experience healing?  Please share.

Coming Monday: the new Short Meditation, “Where’s the fire?”

Tomorrow’s blog: “Minor offenses”

 

Relational breakdowns

Pay versus passion

Bill Hybels concludes Chapter 4 of Simplify by discussing the fourth foundational alignment to filter your former and any potential future job through.

4.  Compensation.  Most often when we think of the word compensation, we associate the word with cash wages.  But compensation is much more than that.  Pastor Hybels adds that compensation includes how much a job satisfies our passions and challenges our abilities.

a.  Pay versus Passion.  In the age-old debate, pay sits on one end of the teeter-totter, passion on the other.  It’s either/or.  Bill phrases the question this way: “Should you follow your passion and perhaps earn less money, or should you go for the paycheck and downplay or disregard your passion?”

As the author notes, very few people experience the perfect balance between passion and pay.  People trying to resolve this dilemma generally choose one of two paths.

b.  Low Pay + High Passion= Supplement Your Income.  People who choose to remain in low-paying jobs aligning with their passions come up with creative solutions for supplementing their income.  When Bill and his wife Lynn founded Willow Creek, the church couldn’t afford to pay them for the first three years.  Both took on multiple part-time jobs.

c.  High Pay + Low Passion= Supplement Your Passion.  People working higher-paying jobs hat are less enjoyable do volunteer work that fills them with joy.

Today’s question: How have you resolved the pay versus passion conundrum?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Relational breakdowns”

 

Pay versus passion

Appropriately challenged- plus

Today Bill Hybels discusses the third foundational alignment to filter our former, or any potentially future job, through.

3.  Challenge.  Pastor Hybels observes that operating at the optimal challenge level brings the deepest job satisfaction.  He asks: “At which challenge level do you thrive?  The logical answer would seem to be “appropriately challenged.”  Wrong.

When people are under-challenged on the job, their skills atrophy and motivation comes to a dead stop.  Effort becomes lackadaisical and depression may set in.  Most people eventually quit.

At the appropriately-challenged level, people accomplish work on their own power.  There is no need to rely on other team members or on God.  The required amount of work is getting done, but there’s no sense of adventure or job importance.

If someone stays at the dangerously over-challenged level for very long, something will break.  No one is exempt from this law.  Something will blow and initial gains made will come crashing down- personally, vocationally, or both.

Pastor Hybels states the best work is done at the level of appropriately challenged- plus.  This level is above “appropriately challenged,” inching toward the low end of “dangerously over-challenged.”  And it’s our job to get to the right challenge level at work.  The author concludes:

“Finding the appropriate level of challenge at work is a key part of simplifying your life.  It’s like tuning your engine to operate at peak efficiency.”

Today’s question: At what challenge level would you place your previous job?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Pay versus passion”

Appropriately challenged- plus

The truth is your friend

Bill Hybels continues Chapter 4 of Simplify by stating he finds it helpful to filter your former job- or any revitalized and revisioned vocation you’re seeking in the future- through four foundational alignments: passion, culture, challenge, and compensation.  The first two alignments will be discussed today.

1.  Passion.  God wired each of us with a passion for something.  Getting the passion alignment right plays a vital role in job satisfaction.  Pastor Hybels believes the best book written on the subject is Letting Your Life Speak by Parker J. Palmer.

2.  Culture.  The author asserts if the culture alignment is off-kilter, satisfaction and fulfillment will be drained from your job.  It is essential to consider the following:

a.  Ask the right question.  Is this a place where you could thrive?

b.  The truth is your friend.  The Best Christian Workplaces Institute describes four levels of staff culture: Toxic (alarm bells should be sounding); Critical Moment (teams are moving toward either toxic or flourishing); Healthy (things look good, but not great); and Flourishing (running on all cylinders).  Facing the truth may be painful, but it will benefit you in the long run.

c.  Culture builder or culture buster?  In your daily actions, are you a blessing or a burden?  Whether your work environment is healthy or dysfunctional, you can be a blessing to everyone who crosses your path.  No one can ruin your attitude unless you give them permission to do so.

Today’s question: How does accepting that the truth is your friend position you to revitalize and revision your vocation?  Please share.

New addition to the Crown Jewels: “Approval addiction”

Tomorrow’s blog: “Appropriately challenged- plus”

The truth is your friend

Examining your work life

In Chapter 4 (“From Restless to Fulfilled: Refining Your Working World”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels reminds us that we spend roughly one-third of our adult life at work.  We will have one of two experiences on the job: (a) work will add significant levels of fulfillment and joy to life or (b) it will create a misery index that permeates all other aspects of life.

A significant step in simplifying life, Pastor Hybels notes, is examining one’s  work life.  The transitional period following a downsizing or vocation loss provides the opportunity to reflect on one’s previous job as well as establish essential criteria for a new and revisioned vocation.  Pastor Hybels looks at three ways a satisfying job simplifies one’s life:

1. Energy.  When you’re invested in a rewarding job, your energy level stays high throughout the day and gets refilled by being at work.  A miserable job, in contrast, leaves you drained at day’s end.  You have little energy for replenishing activities when you get home.

2.  Peace.  A miserable job environment creates inner turmoil that robs you of peace.  Your mental energy is wasted rehashing your day.  On the other hand, a healthy culture brings a deep sense of peace, simplifying your work day and off-hours.

3.  Self-confidence.  Pastor Hybels observes that a satisfying job boosts your self-esteem in healthy ways.  Knowing your contributions matter infuses you with a simple joy.

Today’s question: In examining your work life, would you describe your previous job as rewarding or miserable?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “The truth is your friend”

Examining your work life

God"s provision for my life

“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”- Philippians 4:11-12

Today Bill Hybels discusses the second relevant central tenet forming the foundation for full financial reconciliation with God (Chapter 3 of Simplify).

2.  Live joyfully within God’s current provision for my life.  Pastor Hybels notes it is human nature to look for greener pastures and wish for better circumstances or an easier life.  It logically follows that if we were to get these things we would be happy.

If this is the case, the author notes, Americans should be among the happiest people on earth.  However, a 2012 Gallup Poll ranked the United States thirty-third on a happiness scale.  In contrast, seven of the top ten countries were in Latin America, an area ranking low on typical economic indicators associated with happiness.

Pastor Hybels comments on the beautiful words of St. Paul:

“Someone fully reconciled to God financially can joyfully accept God’s current level of provision for his or her life. . . . It is our responsibility to make adjustments so we can live within God’s provision and be joyfully content whether He provides a little or a lot in any given season.”

Today’s question: What Bible verses have fortified your trust in God’s provision following your vocation loss?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Examining your work life”

God"s provision for my life

Financial reconciliation

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father.”- James 1:17

Bill Hybels continues Chapter 3 of Simplify with his opinion that exceedingly more Christians have spiritual reconciliation experiences with Jesus than financial reconciliations.  Pastor Hybels defines this second reconciliation:

“A financial reconciliation in which the power of God breaks the power of money in your life, His love cleanses your shame and guilt about your financial state, and the Holy Spirit fills you with the power to move ahead with all-new financial practices.”

Pastor Hybels asks us to imagine what it would be like if money- or the lack thereof- no longer had the power to tie us into knots, leaving us overwhelmed. In the author’s study of Scripture, over the years he has found five central tenets that form the foundation for total financial reconciliation with God.  The first two tenets are applicable to vocation loss.  The first is discussed today.

1.  All I have comes from God.  Not one of us has gotten where we are in life today totally on our own power.  We’ve had help from teachers, parents, friends, and co-workers- gifts directed to us from God.  God has given us everything we have and invites us to steward each of our gifts for His purposes in the world.

Today’s question: What people have been God’s gifts to you?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “God’s provision for my life”

Financial reconciliation

Financial stress

“There is no way to simplify your life if your relationship with money is out of control.”- Bill Hybels

In Chapter 3 (“From Overwhelmed to In Control: Mastering Your Finances”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels states a major contributor to throwing our lives into chaos is financial stress.  Financial stress leaves us vulnerable to unspeakable pain.  Even though other areas of our lives may be in good order, Pastor Hybels observes that a “dysfunctional relationship with money will result in an ever-present feeling of being besieged.”

The author asserts the sheer number of Bible verses related to money is a strong indicator right stewardship with our finances truly is of importance to God.  Good stewardship brings freedom and life-changing peace that permeates the heart.

In Luke 19:1-10, Zaccheus- the chief tax collector in the city of Jericho- had come to the breaking point.  Pastor Hybels believes Zaccheus held out hope that Jesus would free him from the crippling relationship with money that bound him.  Zaccheus was powerless to change his behavior.

Pastor Hybels asks us to consider the following question: “If your true financial condition were put upon a billboard for all your friends and family to see, would you feel satisfaction and peace?  Or would you feel deep embarrassment?”

Zaccheus experienced not only a spiritual reconciliation with Jesus, but also a second reconciliation- a financial one.  Pastor Hybels discusses this second reconciliation in tomorrow’s blog.

Today’s question: What Bible verses have been most helpful in relieving the burden of financial stress?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Financial reconciliation”

Financial stress

Chair time with God

“He [Jesus] went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom.”- Luke 4:16

“But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No.’ “- Mathew 5:37 (NKJV)

In Chapter 2 of Simplify Bill Hybels discusses several ways connecting with God can holistically benefit us.

1.  Church attendance.  Pastor Hybels makes a statement that, on the surface, might seem quite obvious- we need to be where God’s Word is taught regularly and weekly if we want to hear more from Him.  When we’ve been hurt by God’s people, it’s all too easy to erect barriers between ourselves and

God.  The author adds:

“If you want more of God’s direction and purpose in your life, you need to adopt the same weekly rhythm that Jesus practiced.”

2.  Chair time.  To feel closer to God or hear from Him through His Word, Pastor Hybels notes, we need to allocate purposeful time with God every day.  A chair is any place where we can sit uninterrupted and meet God.  Bill explains:

“Your chair time . . . should be purposeful and slow and protected from distraction, at a time of day that works best for you.”

3.  Keep your word.  As the author succinctly states, “let your yes be yes and your no be no in every area of your life.”

Where is your favorite place to spend chair time with God?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Financial stress”

Chair time with God

Your one- word commitment

Bill Hybels builds on his discussion of drafting a new proactive, holistic schedule in Chapter 2 of Simplify by stating you must begin with the right question.  That question needs to reflect your most important life goals.  Pastor Hybels emphasizes being intentional- not just thinking, but doing:

“Anyone can change direction in life, add or subtract priorities and activities, or reshuffle the matrix to put priorities in a better order.  That’s the transformative power of a schedule.”

There is the power of even a single word that’s written on your schedule and lived out.  American novelist John Grisham was an unhappy attorney who wanted to become an author.  He started by writing a one- word commitment to himself on the early-morning squares of his monthly calendar: “Write.”  He began by coming to work one hour early and writing one page per day.

Pastor Hybels encourages you that a one- word commitment on a calendar can change your life.  To do so, you should analyze and list the parts of your life in need of a do-over or makeover.  By using the calendar as a holistic tool for every area of your life, you can be certain your calendar is centered on things that matter to you.

Next, the author examines places in our lives that could benefit from holistic scheduling.

Today’s question: What is your one- word commitment?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Chair time with God”

Your one- word commitment

The undisputed boss

“Be very careful, then, how you live- not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.”- Ephesians 5:15-16

“My schedule is far less about what I want to get done and far more about who I become.”- Bill Hybels

Several years after Bill Hybels became a Christian at the age of seventeen, an older gentleman from his church began mentoring him.  One day, near the end of lunch, the gentleman asked Bill: “How would you spend your time if God were in charge of it?”  With that the older man paid for the meal and left.

The question stirred something in Bill’s heart.  Up to that point, Bill admits, he had been “the undisputed boss” of his time.  Ever since that day, however, that question continues to inspire a lifelong discipline for Bill.  Every day he asks himself: How would God have me spend my time today?

In order to stay spiritually centered, in tune with God’s whispers and able to listen to His guidance throughout the day, Pastor Hybels advises protecting those quiet, peaceful, and uninterrupted beginning hours to our day- surrendering them to God.  The author concludes that in rewriting our schedules, we’ll be making choices carrying far greater implications than we imagine:

“I’m of the opinion that the thoughtful arrangement of your daily and weekly calendar is one of the holiest endeavors you can undertake.”

Today’s question: How would you spend your time if God were in charge of it?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Your one-word commitment”

The undisputed boss

Lessons from a burrowing owl

“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.  Are you not of more value than they?”- Matthew 6:26

“It may be hard for an egg to turn into a bird; it would be a jolly sight harder for it to learn to fly while remaining an egg.  We are like eggs at present.  And you cannot go on indefinitely being just an ordinary, decent egg.  We must be hatched or go bad.”- C. S. Lewis

My cousin Pat and her husband Ted live in Cape Coral, FL.  Approximately two blocks from their condo there is a protected, open and treeless field- home to a family of burrowing owls.  Burrowing owls have long legs, a brown body with white speckles, and no ear tufts.  They stand about 9.5″ tall, have a 21″ wingspan, and weigh 5 ounces.

Burrowing owls may dig their own nest or utilize abandoned burrows of prairie dogs or gophers.  To catch prey they can hover over fields or run along the ground.  Owlets scare away predators by hiding in their burrows and mimicking the sounds of a rattlesnake.

We can learn life-transforming lessons from a burrowing owl.  In the song “Your Words” by Third Day, we hear the following: “Let me hear Your words above all the other voices, above all the distractions in this world.”  Those other voices, even our self-talk, may condemn us to feelings of worthlessness and insignificance following our vocation loss.  As C. S. Lewis (The Great Divorce) writes, ultimately each of us will adopt one of two postures before God, joyful surrender or defiant separation:

“There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God ‘Thy will be done’ and those to whom God says, in the end, ‘Thy will be done.’ . . . No soul that seriously and constantly desires joy will ever miss it.  Those who seek find.  To those who knock it is opened.”

God created and provides unique hunting techniques and protection for burrowing owls.  Through the Holy Spirit’s power, our joyful surrender roots our identity as sons and daughters of God.  God is “lifting up His countenance” (Numbers 6:26) upon us.  He is letting us know that He’s fully present and giving Himself to us.  Third Day sings:

“Everything else will fade away, but what will remain are your words.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byFfWfUOnVg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lessons from a burrowing owl

Outward activities and inner priorities

In Chapter 2 (“From Overscheduled to Organized: Harnessing Your Calendar’s Power”) of Simplify, Bill Hybels begins with the wry observation that “our schedules are packed so tight, we couldn’t slip a razor blade between appointments.”  Our busyness easily becomes a source of pride, feeding our sense of importance.  But this pride nourishes something unhealthy in us, and the cost is severe.  Pastor Hybels cautions:

“A runaway calendar . . . holds you hostage to tangible things- meeting, appointments, and projects- without giving proper priority to the intangibles: who you are becoming, your relationships with family and friends, your connectedness to God.”

Breaking the pattern of chronic over-scheduling necessitates conscious intervention.  Yet, people often sound as if they had no choice in the matter.  Pastor Hybels interrupts with a news flash: You are the boss of your schedule!

However, simply reshuffling the same deck of cards consistently will deal the same too-busy hand.  To achieve a simplified life, the hours of each day must be well-invested, holistically creating room for both outward activities and inner priorities.  The author emphasizes the calendar is our “primary tool” for helping us become who we want to become.

Next, Pastor Hybels asks us to consider how we would spend our time if God were in charge of it.

Today’s question: Following your vocation loss how have you established balance between outward activities and inner priorities?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: the new Short Meditation, “Lessons from a burrowing owl”

Outward activities and inner priorities

Customizing a replenishment plan

Bill Hybels concludes Chapter 1 of Simplify with a caution- when we’re at the bottom of our fullness bucket, we’re dangerous.  Living in a depleted state has serious consequences for every area of life.  We aren’t living the way God designed us to live.  Pastor Hybels provides two action steps to help us assess our movement from exhausted to energized.

1.  Take an honest assessment.  We need to take a sober assessment marking our current energy level, asking God what underlies our natural inclination for running on empty.

2.  Craft a custom replenishment plan.  The second action step involves customizing a replenishment plan unique to the way God created each of us.  For example, what people and activities replenish us when we’ve gotten a bit low in the tank?  Rather than worry about how well we fit replenishment into our overcrowded schedule, for now we need to envision a perfect day when all we do is what suits us.

Pastor Hybels describes our initial goal:

“The point isn’t to fill yourself up quickly, but rather, to train yourself to begin the habit of prioritizing the replenishing streams that breathe life into your soul and leave your bucket filled.  There are no shortcuts .  Change begins with small, daily steps.  Start now.”

Today’s question: What small, daily steps can you take to being customizing a replenishment plan? Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Outward activities and inner priorities”

Customizing a replenishment plan

Re- create energy and vitality

In today’s blog, Bill Hybels discusses the second through fifth keys to replenishing our souls.

2.  Family.  Although family looks different for each of us, Pastor Hybels emphasizes we all have a “family” of friends we’ve gathered around us- people God has brought into our lives.  To keep our bucket filled, our family relationships  need to be on the replenishing side instead of the energy-draining side.

3.  Satisfying work.  The author steadfastly maintains “if your job sucks the life out of you week after week, year after year, you will never be able to keep your energy bucket filled.”  We must prayerfully evaluate what truly matters, differentiating between needs and wants.  Pastor Hybels adds that the people he knows who are constantly filled up are quite satisfied with their vocation.

4.  Recreation.  Pastor Hybels confesses he had no form of recreation in his life whatsoever during his first fifteen years of ministry at Willow Creek.  He became so depleted he couldn’t find his way out.  His counselor explained that recreation means to re- create energy and vitality in one’s soul.  It’s essential to install some form of recreation as a “regular stream of replenishment.”

5.  Exercise.  A commitment to good health boosts not only physical health, but our mental health and energy reserves.  Pastor Hybels advises identifying the best hours of our day and modifying our daily routine accordingly.

Today’s question: Which of Bill Hybels’ five keys to soul replenishment are necessary for you to re- create energy and vitality?  Please share.

Coming Monday: the new Short Meditation, “Lessons from a burrowing owl”

Tomorrow’s blog: Customizing a replenishment plan”

Re- create energy and vitality

Connecting with God

Today Bill Hybels discusses the first key (of five) to replenishing our souls.

1.  Connecting with God.  Pastor Hybels unequivocally states the single biggest bucket-filler in his life is being firmly hand-in-hand with God (emphasis author’s).   Pastor Hybels adds that when he is really connected with God, he’s quicker to stay on God’s agenda and is far less concerned about other people’s opinions of him as well as their plans or expectations for his life.

Connecting with God filters out the noise of everyone else who wants our attention.  When we’re in a right relationship with God, Pastor Hybels notes, our identity is secured and our agenda is simplified.  We’re not tempted to run out and do things that God sees as totally irrelevant.

Furthermore, being intentional about spending time with God every day is the antidote to one particular energy-killer: image management.  Secure in  our identity as children of God, we are free to commit our energy to God’s agenda for our lives.  As the author concludes:

“Life is much simpler when we have only one agenda to meet: God’s.”

Tomorrow Pastor Hybels will discuss the remaining keys to replenishing our souls- family, satisfying work, recreation, and exercise.

Today’s question: What Bible verses have strengthened your intentionality in connecting with God?  Please share.

Tomorrow’s blog: “Re- create energy and vitality”

 

Connecting with God