"Most people don't expect you to understand what we're going to tell you in this book. And even if you understand, they don't expect you to do anything about it. And even if you do something about it, they don't expect it to last." Thus begins "Do Hard Things", and right from the start, it grips us with the realization of how far the standards for young people have fallen! Look around you; look at your own life. Are you doing "hard" things? Could you be doing more? What exactly are hard things? Whatever work God gives to those who seek after Him and wish to obey Him in everything is going to be challenging, but that only builds up our spiritual foundation. As young people in this modern-day society, we have the chance to change the course of the world, but only if we are willing to grasp God's power, His gift of life and strength, and change what we know to be wrong.

On page 5 you'll see a list of "radical questions". What do you think of them?

* "Is it possible that even though teens today have more freedom than any other generation in history, we're actually missing out on some of the best years of our lives?"

* "Is it possible that what our culture says about the purpose and potential of the teen years is a lie and that we are its victims?"

* "Is it possible that our teen years give us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for huge accomplishments--as individuals and as a generation?"

* "And finally, what would our lives look like if we set out on a different path entirely--a path that required more effort but promised a lot more reward?"

The authors make it clear that they're not out to make our lives miserable; we don't have to eat gruel for breakfast or take freezing showers, or read textbooks all night and then chop wood all day. There is a difference between duty and personal convictions, just as there is a difference between doing hard things that will make a difference and nurture to you, or someone you know, spiritually, and doing stupid things for personal gain. We should live for God's glory, and strive to do what He presses upon us to do.

What society sets as an option for teen years is known as the Norm, the regular. This book is a launching pad for rebelling against normality. Yes, it's hard going against the crowd, but if that's what God wants for us to do, then we must do it, with His strength, with His eternal mindset, to the best of our mortal abilities. Will it make a difference? Even though you may not see the fruits of your labors, you may be the only Bible anyone ever reads. In doing small works for God as well as large (for it's the obedience that counts, not the size of the work), we can bring light into this dark world. "...we've noticed that once wrong ideas are debunked and cleared away, our generation is quick to choose a better way, even if it's more difficult."

You have taken the first step in becoming a rebel to the low standards set by modern society. How much farther are you willing to go?

Questions for Discussion:

Give your own answers to the four "radical questions" above; give them some thought, it'll be well worth your time.

What is the difference between doing hard things and doing stupid things for personal gain? Give examples of each.

What are some of the ways modern society has sought to undermine our God-given abilities?

God bless! Hopefully the discussion for chapters two-three will be posted over the weekend.

~PIP~

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Comments

Jan. 16, 2009 - Untitled Comment

Written by Anonymous

Hey, I'M writing a review on that book too!!!! Cool.

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Jan. 16, 2009 - I'm Impressed...

Written by Momsie

I'm a rebel of sorts, and I'm glad that you are, too! :) Your discussion questions are very meaty, thought provoking and valid. Do they have a book like this for us *old folks*? I do know that doing those hard things has certainly made a difference in my life. Bravo~

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Jan. 16, 2009 - Untitled Comment

Written by Ness

Do hard Things is such a good book!
I read it awhile ago and just started re-reading it;-)
Thanks for telling me about the pictures. I've been having some trouble with getting the pictures on so that they can be seen! I'm going to try to fix it;-)
~Ness

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Jan. 16, 2009 - Untitled Comment

Written by inkblotter

Good post! I've actually never read that book, but it sounds good.

Thankfully our ham didn't end up having any mold on it. That made me happy :)

~Ariel

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Jan. 16, 2009 - <em>Untitled Comment</em>

Written by GottaluvBooks

You know when you read my blog name,you would think I've read all books,lol(just joking).I've got to see if I can find this book.The questions really got me thinking.I am hardly in the midst of unbelievers,but your right,every little thing you do counts.Serving the Lord is a great(and the greatest) thing to do.I pray you have a great week in the Lord,and God bless you,

Gotaluvbooks

Edited by GottaluvBooks on Jan. 16, 2009 at 10:43 PM

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