Things I Read
This article suggests that absolute materialism may be on the decline, as evidenced by the increasing interest in aliens and other non-human intelligences. We think this is “reenchantment,” but the real enchantment, he argues, is recovering the profound dignity and significance of every human being. His words about how AI is training us to treat humans like machines are alarming.
Things I Listened To
I listened to this podcast by the Truth in Love Podcast about resources for evangelism in counseling.
Things I Watched
Watched this and was super edified. I can listen to Joel Beeke all day.
Things I Thought
At our elder and staff retreat last week we focused on the theme of “shepherd.” We started with Christ as the Good Shepherd, then we talked about what it means for elders to be shepherds, and then we talked about how we ought to shepherd the flock. It was a wonderful time. I think we are refreshed and encouraged to continue the good work God has given us: “shepherd the flock of God that is among you” (1 Peter 5:2).
Quotes to Ponder
I read this excerpt from the Puritan John Flavel this morning. So encouraging and so relevant to our Genesis study:
“God is providentially steering all to the port of his own praise and his people’s happiness, while the whole world is busily employed in managing the sails and tugging at the oars with a quite opposite design and purpose. They promote God’s design by opposing it, fulfill his will by resisting it, and enlarge his church by scattering it. They make the saint’s rest sweeter by making their condition so restless in the world. What a history we might compile, as we trace the footsteps of providence along the way. Here it prevented, and there it delivered. Here it directed, and there it corrected. Here it grieved, and there it relieved. Here was the poison, and there, the antidote. This providence dispelled a dismal cloud. This one straitened, and that one enlarged. Here a want, and there a supply. Words cannot express the delight we may find in such an employment. O reader, what a life of pleasure you might live by noticing the ways of providence towards you! What a heaven upon earth you may have! Taste and see the glory of the study of providence.”
