John Mark Comer uses the Ruthless Elimination of Hurry to repeat what so many have already said. He has compiled research and practical tips to encourage Christians how to live a full life. What differentiates this book from the many others is the attitude we should approach it with...
Ruthless.
What comes to mind? Active, decisive, aggressive, recurring. A willingness to submit our calendar and priorities to the Holy Spirit. So who should read this not-so-new book? People who are hungry for change, ready to repent where needed, and to see their schedule in light of eternity.
John Mark Comer breaks this helpful book down into three parts: The problem, The solution, and four practices for unhurrying your life.
“I woke up late. I meant to write a teacher appreciation letter the night before but I got home exhausted from small-group..What’s that new moms name? I wish I could remember, I’ve met her twice already.” Welcome to our problem, hurry.
The beauty of the solution is its simplicity. Our goal is to internalize the great truth that is Matthew 11:28, clearly laid out in Scripture for us to cling to,
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, & learn from me, for I am gentle & lowly in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
How do we internalize this great truth and apply it repeatedly? The third part of Comer’s book is the nitty-gritty how:
1. Silence and solitude
2. Sabbath
3. Simplicity
4. Slowing
Part 3 is full of hilariously simple, frustrating tips that we’ve heard repeatedly including “don’t impulse buy, give things away, drive the speed limit, put your phone to bed, etc.” The question for us is which of these repeated tips will we actually try in our daily life?
The goal of this book is to prompt internal reflection for yourself and your community. Take the time to ask yourself and the ones you love the following:
1. What comes to mind when I envision an unhurried life?
2. What does Scripture say about an unhurried life?
3. What is the first thing the Holy Spirit brought to mind that makes your life feel hurried?
4. Which of these four disciplines is the most difficult for you to accept?
5. Do I need to read this book?
A quote highlighted in the Epilogue from Alcoholics Anonymous demonstrates the main point of the book: enjoyment of Jesus. “That I may be reasonably happy in this life, and supremely happy with Jesus forever in the next.” Come to Jesus, enjoy him today and enjoy him forever. His yoke is easy and his burden is light. Jesus has already made this possible. Now is the opportunity to respond with gratitude and the freedom of an unhurried life.
Meet the author!
Natalie Ford is a wife and mom with a passion for making Christ known. She is an avid reader, enjoys the outdoors and loves to be with her people at CRBC.