Jonathan Leeman at 9 Marks writes a letter to godly seminary professors asking for one to write a short booklet to seminary students warning them of the dangers of seeking academic accolades, and reminding them of where the true value of their study lies.  This was spurred by a new book on the life of G. E. Ladd who was excellent in his academic work, but descended into depression and alcoholism because he was never accepted into the academic elites.

John Piper offers 5 reasons why God allows affliction in the life of a believer in an article titled ‘God’s Painful Exegetical Help‘.

Ligonier’s website has put together a helpful Recommended Reading List that will guide you to excellent writings on a multitude of subjects.  This will guard you from much wasted time and money on books that have questionable value.

I recently finished reading Lyle Dorsett’s biography of A. W. Tozer “A Passion for God”, and I have to say there was some disappointment with Tozer’s life. While he pursued his ministry and devotion toward God with amazing vigor, the testimony of his wife and children seems to point to a failure with his role as father and husband.

It’s good advice that we never elevate any one person to a position of flawlessness. We all have flaws, and truth be known, if each of our lives were to be examined and written about, there would be many things in our own lives that could be painted in a very negative light.

One thing is for sure, Tozer’s ministry and books are valuable for Christians.

John Piper and Sean Lucas have weighed in with some wisdom, particularly pay attention to Piper’s comments on emotional blackmail. This is something we should bear in mind, whether Tozer was guilty or not.

Sean Lucas and Pipers comments at Between Two Worlds

CJ Mahaney writes a wonderful series of posts on family vacations, where he identifies the single most important ingredient is the father’s attitude and leadership.

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3

Very interesting interview of Mark Dever about the purpose of the church, the regulative principle, preaching and many more things.

Tony Reinke at the Shepherd’s Scrapbook has quoted a very helpful portion of an address that J. Greshem Machen delivered at Princeton Seminary many years ago.

Al Mohler directs our attention to an article on the loss of the life of the mind and the ability to stay focused and pay attention in our digital age.

The article appears in the magazine TAG and was written by Courtney E. Martin.  It’s a fascinating look at how the culture in college has become overrun by the digital age.  Mohler concludes his commentary with this:

People who cannot maintain mental attention cannot know the intimacy of prayer, and God does not maintain a Facebook page. Our ability to focus attention is not just about the mind, for it is also a reflection of the soul. Our Christian discipleship demands that we give attention to our attention.

Way of the Master Radio compares the preaching philosopy of Rick Warren and John Piper.

Part 1.

Part 2.