Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
3 Bullet Book: 2020, book #56: “You can never have a Christian mind without reading the scriptures regularly because you cannot be profoundly influenced by that which you do not know. If you are filled with God’s Word, your life can then be directed and informed by God.” — R. Kent Hughes
Finished on July 24, 2020
Another book from the Lifework Leadership Group, this was fantastic. There are only a number of books that can focus on the foundational aspects of a person in an intentional way and actually communicate effectively; this was one of those books. Throughout life, I’ve noticed that we might have role models in different areas but it’s uncommon to have a role model that encompasses everything we are seeking in someone. That’s where books such as this one can come in and really provide a major impact — it’s not that we are relying on one imperfect person but looking at a collection of lessons surrounding a topic.
The 3 Bullets
1. The author emphasizes that there is no substitute for covenant and commitment. There have been studies done to look at marriage in the United States and marriage in other countries. One such study that I recall looked at the US compared to India. The conclusion was that Americans married who they loved and Indians loved who they married. As with the earlier comment, we might not have the strongest examples of healthy marriage, yet, we can garner certain aspects from one married couple and other aspects from another. What I’ve learned thus far — being unmarried — is that mutual commitment is going to be one of the most important parts of a successful and long lasting marriage. Mutual commitment to each other, to faith, to ambitions, to a present and future together.
2. I thought it was interesting that the author reported, “The overwhelming number of Christian books are bought by women. Women read more Christian literature.” What does this say about men? Is it that men don’t want to learn as much? Maybe they get their information another way, but really, should a stark difference exist? Probably not.
3. The third main point worth highlighting is the emphasis on work. “Work must be good work before we call it God’s work.” If we are working but cannot add anything of value, who does that support or benefit? Like a gardener that can’t grow any plants or flowers, it’s difficult to develop fruits in this world if we don’t know how to cultivate and grow anything.
Legalism is self-centered. Discipline is God-centered.
The overwhelming number of Christian books are bought by women. Women read more Christian literature.
Marriages that depend on being in love fall apart. Those that look back on the wild promises they vowed in the marriage ceremony are the ones who make it. There is no substitute for covenant + commitment.
“You can never have a Christian mind without reading the scriptures regularly because you cannot be profoundly influenced by that which you do not know. If you are filled with God’s Word, your life can then be directed and informed by God.” — R. Kent Hughes
“Worship is an act which develops feelings for God nor a feeling for God which is expressed in an act of worship.” — Eugene Peterson
Work must be good work before we call it God’s work. Genesis 1:31 emphasizes this. EVERY vocation is a divine calling.
True spiritual leadership knows nothing of a self-promoting spirit. Reference John 3:30.
There are 2 distinct courses of life available for men who claim the name of Christ:
1. Cultivate a small heart: minimizes the sorrows of life and dodges the troubles of human existence.
2. Cultivate a ministry heart: encounter the index of sorrows scarcely imaginable to a shriveled heart. Open yourself to others.
I gave this book a 4/5
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