FIVE in FRIDAY - August 1, 2025

   

 Five things that have inspired and encouraged me this week:

1. BIBLE PASSAGE I'M FOCUSING ON

"Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”  Matthew 7:7-8 NLT

This passage is at the heart of prayer - asking, seeking, knocking. All of those are active words. Prayer isn't a passive activity, it is an act of faith to pray and trust God to deliver.  

2. BOOK I'M READING

Old Testament Wisdom Literature: A Theological Introduction

I will be teaching Wisdom Literature at our local prison this fall for Carson Newman University and I had to choose a textbook for this class. I've never taught this course before, and I don't remember what the textbook was when I took the class back in the dark ages, so this was my best guess for a textbook. I'm about halfway through and I really like it. Some of it is really academic, but much of it is solid interpretation and application. The authors, Craig G. Bartholomew and Ryan P. O'Dowd do a good job of weaving in the practical application with the academic information. I think it will be a helpful book to the students, and to anyone who wants to learn about this unique genre of literature in the Old Testament. 

3. BOOK I'M LISTENING TO

Get Out of Your Own Way: A Skeptic’s Guide to Growth and Fulfillment, by Dave Hollis

Dave is the the husband of Rachel Hollis, a best selling author and sought after conference speaker. Dave is also a former Disney executive who handled business deals for blockbuster movies. 

The book is his journey of victory over alcoholism, depression, mental frustration and anguish, and getting control of his life. He talks about the mental shifts,  resources, and the power of God that enabled him to take full responsibility for his health, life and future. He also teaches about the discipline it takes to not only get back on track and stay on track. 

4. QUOTE I AM PONDERING 

"You have to train your mind as much as your body." Venus Williams

That is a powerful quote from one of the greatest and most successful tennis players in history. For a great "mind-training" program, follow the instructions of Philippians 4:8, "Fix your thoughts (train your mind) on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise."

5. FRIDAY FUNNY!

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