![[Interview] “Harmony isn’t the absence of tension,” says global mission leader commenting on major trends today](/media/cache/thumbnail/0/03/307sp_625w_410h_1x_1y.jpg)
Relationships define reality for us. Everything is interrelated. The interconnectivity of all things, physical and spiritual, are held together by relationships. So much so, that I believe in and started to develop a relational hermeneutic of Scripture that can better help us understand the purposes of God in the world today.
As challenges increase in the world, knowing that facing struggle does not mean that life is out of control or terrible can provide great hope. It is hopeful to remember that a cold dark night on the side of Everest isn't a destination, it is a means to an end. Similarly, the stuff that life throws at us is a pathway to growth in Christ for the follower of Jesus.
According to the late Eugene Peterson, an unbusy person may be highly productive but his or her attitude is such that there is always time to care for others and develop fruit that will last. This is both a subversive act in our day and age and a testimony to our apocalyptic hope.
Evangelicals who ignore or gloss over the discipline of confession are setting themselves up for immaturity. Confession of sin to trusted others is an important part of the formation process for followers of Jesus, it strengthens the believing community and provides mutual support for helping each other grow in the faith and away from sinful habits. It is a healthy discipline that we dare not lose.
For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven... a time to be quiet and a time to speak. The writer of Ecclesiastes notes the times, but how should we know what the time is? Here are ten indicators for each to help discern when it is a time for quiet and listening, or a time for speaking and influencing.
