One More Thing

Hi Five Oakers,

The weekend's almost here and there are a few things I want to share with you.

The Weekend

If I asked you to list the things that give you life--life-giving, rejuvenating activities--you might list things like time with family and friends, vacations and weekend, Bible reflection and prayer. I'm not sure you'd list one of the most invigorating things we can do in our lives, the subject of this weekend's sermon. Yet what we're talking about in our last Connect sermon is one of the ways we image God and live as God intended. It's truly life-giving.

Next week we launch our new series, Promised Land, a study of the books of Joshua and Judges. Week one is a study of fear and courage.

FYI

Mark Galli on "Why We Need the New Battle for the Bible: It's time to turn to Scripture as our final authority"

To emphasize theology will entail a battle, as any pastor will sense. It will be a battle against those who have fed too long on the milk of therapeutic Christianity, and who will demand immediate application. It will be a battle against false teachers, who will react defensively. It will be a battle against our own sloth, as this type of teaching requires more intellectual labor than “10 ways to improve your marriage.”

Michael Hyatt on "3 Powerful Habits Every Leader Needs to Excel: Plus 17 More That Will Give You a Significant Edge"

Curiosity is vital for leaders because learning is vital for leaders. I’m constantly reading, experimenting, and playing with new ideas and fresh approaches. Without curiosity, my leadership would have stagnated decades ago. Without the habit of curiosity, yours will too.

Mayo Clinic Staff on "Stress relief from laughter? It's no joke: When it comes to relieving stress, more giggles and guffaws are just what the doctor ordered. Here's why.

Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. In contrast, positive thoughts actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses.

A joyful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. (Proverbs 17:22)