One of my goals in the new year is to spend more quality time in writing for this blog. But, I don’t just want to write about things that no one cares about. So, I’d like to ask you: 
What topics would like for us to discuss on this blog?
(Obviously they need to stick to the general realm of spiritual formation, but I’m open to ideas).
Also, I’d like to develop more of a sense of conversation and community on the blog. We have a lot of readers and visitors, but not too many commenters (you may notice that we have a new comment system that will allow you to link your comment to your Facebook or Twitter account too). It’s totally fine if you just want to read and reflect, but I also want to invite you to join in the conversations! Feel free to express your thoughts, questions, whatever (just stick to the general rule of being courteous and respectful).
So…if you have some ideas for topics, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.
I am a big fan of the posts that end with simple, easily implemented changes a person would be interested in doing once read. You have done some before, so I am at a loss for an example, though the previous post on goals would do as somewhat of an example. I read Spurgeon's mornings and evenings every day and am constantly astonished at what he can accomplish in one paragraph (despite some of the devotions that cleary do not translate to today's culture). I think with this, it doesn't focus neccessarily on things you can do, but mostly on your thought life and attitude in daily living, that in turn can then affect your actions.
I'm always interested in blogs about books. I've been reading “Crazy Love” by Frances Chan and “The Principle of the Path,” by Andy Stanley and not only are they phenominal books, but they, in my opinion, would provide a great jumping off point for blogs (especially if you did a blog on every chapter or idea).
I definitely want to make things practical and offer ways to implement particular things. I'll make sure to keep that in mind! Thanks!
I've done some book reviews before, but I've never thought of blogging throughout a book (like per chapter like you said). I like that idea!
By the way Crazy Love is a great book!
I'm all about practical application…. where the rubber meets the road. It's easy to follow scriptural principles that are spelled out (literally) in black and white…. but what about those that are not so clear?? Priorities: God, family, then what…. church activities, education, career, friends, activities (scrapbooking, football…..)…. what is supposed to give and when?? Based on what??
Thanks! NJ
Frances Chan has a new book out I've yet to read (it's on my list).
Folks,
I’m not sure, how many of us will be agree with this but I’m planning to read the Bible in one year. I think if we stay accountable to each other and report here each week or as the time permits, it will be a great journey.
- Sten
If you have a messge from the Lord, speak it. If you don't, don't.
I hear you drgregb, but we should also remember that everything we say should be said with the intentionality, attitude, and purpose that we are speaking the words of God ( [11]whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies--in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (ESV)" target="_new">1 Peter 4:11). I don't want anything that I write here to be meaningless, that's why I'm asking for what people would find useful to their journey.
Sorry if I've misunderstood your comment
Peace
I have done that for over a decade. Now I am taking one gospel (This year's is luke) and spending one week per chapter. It a way to slow down and put myself there, and pay closer attention. I also do one Psalm a week. I am meandering through the epistles as the spirit moves me onto the next passage – they are harder to live than to understand.
I am writing out modern versions of the old testament stories, to see how amazing it would seem to us today, not just for them then. It is a slow process, but puts muy thoughts more in line with God's instead of trying to get God to fit my ideas of hurry, hurry, hurry, gobble, gobble, gobble.
I do suggest for anyone who is new to the Bible and reading through in a year to get a Chronological Bible to help it make sense of the fact that some books are occuring at the same time, and speed read fast past the begats and the census numbers. Keeps you from getting bogged down. There is always time, God willing, for understanding the begats and the chronologies, but there i8s much more of it that will do more to form you character, faith and amazements than the begats at this point.
Writing out the Old Testament stories is a great idea for getting them into your mind and heart!