Making the Most of This Week

Well hi everyone! You don’t need me to tell you that this has been a truly crazy few days and if you’re anything like me, your days suddenly look a lot different than they used to. It’s hard to suddenly see your kids home from school, your people shut in their homes, and so many of our friends and family either working from home or unable to work. It feels a little like living in a movie and it’s hard to wrap your mind around. 

Basically we’re finding ourselves in a situation where either panic or denial are the easiest places to go in your mind. This post is in resistance to that. In this situation, I see opportunity. I see potential to know Jesus better. There are bright places to find in the storm. 

In the summer, I share a “Little Things” newsletter with recommendations for things to watch, listen to, and read, every week. Here, you’ll find the same! New and uplifting things to try and take in if you find you suddenly have more time on your hands and you feel moved to use it well. I’m also adding a spiritual development category because in my own life, this week is my week to break down spiritual strongholds and grow nearer to Jesus because time can no longer be my excuse. 

God works all things together for his good and so there is good to be found. Here are some ideas. 

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To Read: 

1. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: I cannot recommend this book enough. God is using it to transform my heart. I can’t speak this strongly enough - if you don’t have anything to read, make it this. 
2. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before: I’ve recommended this book before, but if you’re in need of a sweet and lighthearted read to get you through, this is my favorite by far. ​
3. Little Fires Everywhere: This book becomes a series on Hulu tomorrow! It’s a Reese Witherspoon pick and totally engaging. It will suck you right in. 

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To Watch: 

1. Brooklynn Nine-Nine: I’m obsessed with the Office and it has always been my go-to comfort show, but I’ve been looking for a short, funny, fall asleep show and my whole quarantined fam has loved this one. 
2. Bon Appetit’s Youtube: This channel is a gold mine and perfect for my fellow Food Network junkies. I absolutely love it. 
3. Troop Zero: My parents were crazy about this one! I hear is has strong Sandlot vibes and is a sweet pick for older families.

To Listen To: 

1. The Daily: I DO NOT need tons of news in my life right now. I want to be intentional about who is speaking into my mind in these times and I’m loving this as a daily resource. 
   
2. Fresh Air Playlist: I’m A LOT more cooped up these days. We are still getting out for daily hikes, but this playlist feels like fresh air. 
   
3. House to House Playlist: As I’m working from my parents’ kitchen table, this is playing in the background the whole time. I am working on being in a state of inner prayer at all times and this is helping. 

Spiritual Development: 

1. House to House Teaching: I’m learning so much from this church right now and, not surprisingly, this teaching rocked my world yesterday. This is a perfect addition to your quiet time. 
2. Psalm 91: This scripture feels like a song of our times. I am so comforted by the ongoing relevancy of God’s word. He is GOOD. Let this soothe your soul today. 
3. Rock City Teaching: Rock City leads well in our city. Check out this teaching ad

I saw this quote on social media this morning: 
“Conversations will not be cancelled. 
Relationships will not be cancelled. 
Love will not be cancelled. 
Songs will not be cancelled. 
Reading will not be cancelled. 
Self-care will not be cancelled. 
Hope will not be cancelled. 

May we lean into the good stuff that remains.”