<![CDATA[Devin Peterson - Field Notes in Formation]]>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:46:19 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Leaders Who Destroy VS Leaders Who Develop]]>Mon, 10 Apr 2023 17:00:42 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/april-10th-2023Leadership is a crucial element in any organization's success. The leadership style employed by a leader determines the outcome of the organization. In general, there are two types of leaders: those who destroy and those who develop. The former type of leader is known for their autocratic leadership style, while the latter is known for their democratic leadership style.
Leaders who destroy are characterized by their dictatorial leadership style. Such leaders do not value the opinions of their subordinates and do not delegate tasks to them. They make all decisions without consulting their team, leading to low morale and poor performance. They are focused on their personal interests and do not work towards the organization's goals. Such leaders are known to intimidate their subordinates and may use force to achieve their goals.

These leaders may offer short-term results, but they will eventually lead to the organization's downfall. They create an environment of fear and mistrust, where employees are afraid to speak up or share their ideas. The lack of collaboration and creativity leads to stagnation and missed opportunities. The employees become disengaged, and turnover rates increase. This results in lost productivity, revenue, and talent.

Leaders who develop use a democratic leadership style that values the opinions of their team. Such leaders delegate tasks to their team, creating a sense of ownership and responsibility among the subordinates. They create a positive work environment that fosters teamwork, collaboration, and creativity. They work towards the organization's goals and are committed to achieving them. They empower their team members, allowing them to make decisions and take ownership of their work.

These leaders create a culture of excellence, leading to high performance and productivity. They are committed to their team's success and invest in their development. They inspire and motivate their team, leading to higher morale and job satisfaction. They promote innovation and creativity, leading to new ideas and approaches that improve the organization's performance.

Leaders who develop not only achieve better results but also create an environment where employees feel valued and engaged. They create a sense of purpose and direction, which leads to higher job satisfaction and retention rates. The employees are more likely to share their ideas and collaborate, leading to new opportunities and growth. This results in increased productivity, revenue, and talent retention.

Moreover, leaders who develop are better equipped to handle crises than leaders who destroy. In times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, leaders who develop are more likely to take a proactive approach and communicate effectively with their employees. They prioritize the safety and well-being of their team and are willing to make tough decisions for the greater good. In contrast, leaders who destroy may resort to fear-mongering and may not take the necessary steps to protect their employees or the organization.

Furthermore, leaders who develop are more likely to create a culture of learning and growth within their organization. They encourage their team members to take risks and learn from their mistakes. They provide opportunities for training and development, both for their team members and for themselves. They are open to feedback and are willing to make changes to improve their leadership style. This creates a dynamic and adaptable organization that can thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
​
In conclusion, leaders who destroy employ an autocratic leadership style that is characterized by intimidation, dictatorial behavior, and personal interests. On the other hand, leaders who develop use a democratic leadership style that values their team's opinions, delegates tasks, and empowers their subordinates. Leaders who develop create a positive work environment that fosters teamwork, collaboration, and creativity, leading to high performance and productivity, along with better employee engagement and retention rates. They are also better equipped to handle crises, prioritize the safety and well-being of their team, and create a culture of learning and growth within their organization.
]]><![CDATA[Spiritual Disciplines: A Pathway to Deeper Faith]]>Mon, 10 Apr 2023 16:52:59 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/spiritual-disciplines-a-pathway-to-deeper-faithSpiritual disciplines are practices that help us connect with God and grow in our faith. They are not just religious rituals but intentional actions we take to foster a deeper relationship with our Creator. Spiritual disciplines can take on many different forms, and the beauty of them is that they can be tailored to fit our unique personalities and spiritual journeys.
Prayer
Prayer is one of the most important spiritual disciplines, and it is a powerful way to connect with God and express our deepest longings and desires. Prayer is simply talking to God, and it can take on many different forms. Some people prefer to pray silently, while others like to pray out loud. Some people like to pray in a formal setting, while others prefer to pray in nature. Whatever form prayer takes, it is a powerful way to connect with God and express our deepest longings and desires.

Prayer is an essential spiritual discipline that can help us experience a deeper relationship with God. Through prayer, we can communicate our worries, joys, and desires to God. It is an opportunity to express our gratitude to God for all the blessings He has bestowed upon us, and to ask for His guidance and wisdom in our daily lives. Prayer is not just a one-way communication, but rather a dialogue between us and God. By listening to God's voice and following His guidance, we can experience a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

​Reading Scripture
Another important spiritual discipline is reading the Bible. The Bible is God's word to us, and it is a powerful tool for spiritual growth. Reading the Bible can help us understand God's character, learn from the examples of others who have walked with God, and gain wisdom for living our lives in a way that honors Him.

The Bible is a rich source of inspiration and guidance. By reading it regularly, we can deepen our understanding of God's plan for our lives, and gain insight into how we can live a life that is pleasing to Him. Reading the Bible can also help us develop a stronger faith, as we become more aware of God's love and grace for us.

Fasting
Fasting is another spiritual discipline that can help us grow in our faith. Fasting involves abstaining from food or other pleasures for a period of time in order to focus on God and seek His will. Fasting can be a challenging discipline, but it can also be incredibly rewarding as we learn to rely on God's strength and provision.

Fasting can help us gain a new perspective on life, and deepen our appreciation for the blessings we have. By giving up something that is important to us, we are reminded of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. Fasting can also help us break free from unhealthy habits or addictions, and develop a greater sense of self-control.

Meditation
Meditation is a practice that involves quieting our minds and focusing on God's presence. It can help us develop a sense of inner peace and calm, and deepen our awareness of God's love for us. Worship is a practice that involves expressing our love and devotion to God through music, prayer, and other forms of worship.

Service
Service is a practice that involves serving others in Jesus' name, and is a powerful way to show God's love to those around us. Solitude is a practice that involves spending time alone with God, and can help us find clarity and direction in our lives.

Incorporating spiritual disciplines into our daily lives can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. As we seek to grow in our faith and deepen our relationship with God, spiritual disciplines provide a pathway to experiencing His love and grace in new and transformative ways.

When we incorporate spiritual disciplines into our daily routine, we are able to create a space for God in our lives. We become more aware of His presence and guidance, and we are able to experience His love and grace in new and transformative ways. Spiritual disciplines help us to focus on what is important, and they remind us of our ultimate purpose in life: to love and serve God.

So, whether you are just starting out on your spiritual journey or have been walking with God for many years, consider incorporating spiritual disciplines into your daily routine. They may just be the key to unlocking a deeper and more meaningful relationship with your Creator.

In conclusion, spiritual disciplines are essential for our journey of faith. They help us to connect with God in unique ways, deepen our faith, and experience a more fulfilling and purposeful life. By incorporating spiritual disciplines into our daily routine, we can create a space for God in our lives and experience His love and grace in new and transformative ways.

]]><![CDATA[LIVING LIFE WITH PURPOSE: DISCOVERING GOD'S PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE]]>Mon, 27 Mar 2023 20:35:23 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/living-life-with-purpose-discovering-gods-plan-for-your-life​Living with purpose is one of the most fulfilling experiences a person can have. When you know that you are doing what you were created to do, you have a sense of peace and joy that cannot be found anywhere else.
​As Christians, we believe that God has a plan for our lives. He has created us with unique gifts, talents, and passions that can be used to serve Him and others. However, discovering God's plan for your life can be a journey that takes time and effort. It requires a willingness to seek God's guidance, use your gifts and talents to serve others, and trust in His plan for your life.

The first step to living with purpose is to seek God's guidance. Spend time in prayer and ask Him to reveal His plan for your life. Listen to His voice and pay attention to the opportunities and challenges that come your way. God can use both positive and negative experiences to shape you into the person He wants you to be. Sometimes, it may take some time to hear from God, and you may not receive an answer right away. However, it is important to remain patient and trust in His timing.

Another important aspect of living with purpose is to use your gifts and talents to serve others. When you use your abilities to help others, you not only make a difference in their lives, but you also fulfill your purpose. God has given you these gifts for a reason, and He wants you to use them for His glory. Whether it is volunteering at a local charity, mentoring a young person, or using your musical talent to lead worship at church, there are countless ways you can use your gifts and talents to serve others and make a difference in the world.

Living with purpose also requires faith and trust in God. Sometimes, His plan for our lives may not make sense to us or may be different from what we had envisioned. However, we can trust that He knows what is best for us and that He will guide us along the way. It is important to let go of our own plans and desires and surrender to His will. This may require some sacrifice and stepping out of our comfort zones, but when we trust in God's plan, we can be sure that He will lead us to our true purpose.

In conclusion, discovering God's plan for your life and living with purpose can bring a sense of fulfillment and joy that cannot be found anywhere else. It is a journey that requires faith, patience, and a willingness to serve others. Seek God's guidance, use your gifts and talents to serve others, and trust in His plan for your life. With these principles in mind, you can live a life of purpose and impact the world for His glory.
]]><![CDATA[16 WAYS TO IMPROVE WORK PERFORMANCE]]>Mon, 20 Mar 2023 21:01:08 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/16-ways-to-improve-work-performanceAs employees, we all aim to excel in our jobs and strive to be better than yesterday. Improving work performance can help us achieve that goal. In this blog post, we will discuss 16 ways to improve your work performance and be successful in your career.
1. Set clear goals
Setting clear, achievable goals is crucial for improving work performance. It helps us stay focused, motivated, and measure our progress. Make sure that your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

2. Prioritize your tasks
Prioritizing your tasks can help you manage your workload efficiently. Start with the most urgent, important tasks, and then move on to the less critical ones. You can also use tools like the Eisenhower matrix to prioritize your tasks effectively.

3. Avoid multitasking
​Multitasking can reduce your productivity and affect the quality of your work. Focusing on a single task at a time can help you complete it faster and better. Avoid distractions like social media, emails, or phone calls while working on a task.

4. Take breaks
Taking breaks can help you recharge your energy and improve your focus. Take short breaks between tasks or work sessions, and use that time to stretch, take a walk, or meditate.

5. Learn new skills
Learning new skills can help you stay relevant in your field and improve your work performance. Attend workshops, seminars, or training programs to learn new skills and stay updated with the latest industry trends.

6. Seek feedback
Seeking feedback from your peers or supervisors can help you identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes. It also shows that you are open to constructive criticism and willing to improve your work performance.

7. Set boundaries
Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Avoid working overtime or taking work home, as it can lead to burnout and affect your productivity.

8. Stay organized
Staying organized can help you manage your tasks and time effectively. Use tools like calendars, to-do lists, or project management software to stay on top of your tasks and deadlines.

9. Develop good communication skills
Good communication skills are crucial for building relationships with your colleagues, clients, or supervisors. Practice active listening, clear and concise communication, and be open to feedback.

10. Take responsibility
Taking responsibility for your actions and mistakes can help you build trust and credibility with your colleagues and supervisors. It also shows that you are accountable and willing to learn from your mistakes.

11. Stay positive
Staying positive and maintaining a positive attitude can help you overcome challenges and improve your work performance. Focus on your strengths and accomplishments, and use them as motivation to achieve your goals.

12. Stay updated
Staying updated with industry trends, news, and developments can help you stay ahead of the curve and improve your work performance. Subscribe to industry newsletters, attend conferences, or follow thought leaders in your field.

13. Collaborate
Collaborating with your colleagues can help you learn new skills, share knowledge, and improve your work performance. It also helps build a positive work environment and fosters teamwork.

14. Take care of your health
Taking care of your physical and mental health is essential for improving work performance. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, eat healthy, and practice mindfulness to reduce stress and improve your focus.

15. Stay motivated
Staying motivated can help you achieve your goals and improve your work performance. Find what motivates you, whether it's recognition, personal growth, or monetary rewards, and use that as a driving force.

16. Celebrate your achievements
Celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, can help you stay motivated and improve your work performance. Take time to acknowledge your accomplishments and use them as a source of inspiration for future goals.

Conclusion
​Improving work performance requires effort, dedication, and continuous learning. By following these 16 ways, you can improve your work performance, achieve your goals, and be successful in your career. Remember to set clear goals, prioritize your tasks, learn new skills, seek feedback, and take care of your health. With hard work and determination, you can take your career to the next level.
]]><![CDATA[You’re Not ALWAYS right!]]>Fri, 16 Dec 2022 19:52:57 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/youre-not-always-rightHave you ever felt like you, or maybe a small group of likeminded people, had all of the answers to life's question and everyone else lacked your “common sense?” Maybe you just don’t understand how some people can “be so stupid” as to see the world the way they do. After all, the world just makes so much sense to you, and others just don’t seem to get it. Have you ever considered that their world makes as much sense to them as yours does to you? 
Now, to be clear, I’m not saying that everyone is right, or that “perception is reality.” But, I am saying that to each person, their perception is their reality. Not only is it reality, but it becomes the lens by which they make sense of everything else. While we often criticize this, it’s actually a defense mechanism that has been hardwired into our brains. From the time we are very little, we learn a set of principles (usually passed down from our parents or some other formative source) and the rest of our lives are spent retaining information that reinforces those principles - or rejecting information that doesn’t. This is why I often say that experience can be a great teacher, but also a great deceiver. Our past experiences actually have a way of clouding our judgment and producing faulty reasoning. It’s a phenomenon known as the Baader-Meinhof Complex, “Confirmation bias” or “Frequency Bias.” When we experience something for the first time, we tend to assume that we will experience it that way every time - we tend to see those results even if someone with fresh eyes would see it differently. 

So, how can we combat this reality? We all deal with it, so what strategies should we employ to fight back? Here, I’ve offered four that I try to live on a daily basis! 

Keep an Open Mind
When we find ourselves needing to make a decision, even if it’s just sharing our opinion, we will naturally default to what feels comfortable: that which reinforces our formative principles. Though it’s easier said than done, before you buckle down with your conviction, take a moment to question your thinking. Theodore Roosevelt once said, “If I can be right 75 percent of the time I shall come up to the fullest measure of my hopes." This viewpoint conditioned Roosevelt to believe that he would be  wrong at least 25% of the time! If we’re being honest, how many of us assume we’re wrong even 1% of the time? Approaching life with this mindset allows us to have meaningful conversations, learn from others, and, frankly, be more pleasant to be around! 

Consider Alternative Viewpoints 
Have you ever wondered why PhDs are often regarded as some of the most intelligent people on the planet (whether they are or not is a discussion for another time)? It’s not necessarily because of their wealth of knowledge. In fact, some programs don’t even have a comprehensive exam! Actually, it’s because they are required to read and understand every perspective on their topic before forming an opinion (thesis statement). While not everyone will have the desire to pursue a PhD, we can all apply this same principle! Doing so will help you in two main ways. First, it will give you more opportunities to learn, and maybe even change your perspective. Secondly, it may serve to reinforce your perspective, but in an informed way (as opposed to ignorance). PhDs are also required to effectively “defend” their opinion, which requires a meaningful understanding and respect for every other points of view. Now, this doesn’t mean that you have to agree with other perspectives; it just means that you need to respect the fact that intelligent individuals have taken the time to think through the content, and have come to a different conclusion than you have. One of the worst things you can do is ONLY read material or talk to people who agree with you. Sure it’ll feel good to have your formative principles reinforced, but what if those principles are not aligned with reality? Is it better to live in a vacuum, or to seek truth and learn from others throughout life? Take some time to consider where you learned what you know? We’re those sources credible? Is it possible that they were merely regurgitating something that they had been taught in the same way? As Socrates once said, “an unexamined life is not one worth living.”

Make a Bet
In her book, “Thinking in Bets,” poker champion Annie Dukes shares her experience with high stakes poker and how it has changed the way she makes decisions. She encourages the reader to place a monetary bet any time they make a judgment call. How sure of your perspective are you? Would you be willing to risk $5.00? What about $50.00? What about $100.00? Putting our “money where our mouth is,” helps us to second guess how sure we are of our position. Or, maybe we're so sure, that we’re willing to go “all in!” Either way, this strategy helps us to stop and think before we speak. 

Keep Yourself Accountable 
Since our formative perspectives are usually inherited, we very often begin with them as our presupposition. That being said, they are generally left unexamined and unexplored. As we move through life, we acquire new principles that sound good, but ultimately contradict our baseline beliefs. However, we don’t realize it because we have failed to explain these principles in the first place. One way to avoid this is to surround yourself with people who will call you out on your inconsistencies. Of course this requires deep trust and relationship, but these bonds are invaluable! If all of your friends agree with you, then either you need to get new friends or you may just be far too argumentative for people to want to challenge you. Either way, there’s work to be done! 

Wrapping Up
All of us dig out heels in the ground and fight for what we believe is true! But no matter how sure you are, there’s always room for error. Thinking otherwise is nothing more than blatant arrogance. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be confident in what you believe. It does mean that true confidence should come from examination and an ability to consistently and effectively defend your point of view. That doesn’t mean arguing until you’re blue in the face, it means meaningfully considering every perspective and coming to a conclusion that handles all the facts appropriately. If we can do this regularly, then experience truly does become a great teacher. 
]]><![CDATA[The Alpha & Omega of Theological Studies]]>Sat, 26 Nov 2022 21:55:37 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/the-alpha-omega-of-theological-studiesI recently wrote a post entitled “Hinge Points: Solving Big Problems with Small Steps.” Here, I shared how my journey into the study of Bible and Theology was slow and confusing. I spent many years struggling to wrap my mind around the big concepts, and constantly felt myself pulled from one school of thought to the next. Even when I started taking courses in seminary, I struggled to find firm footing and feel confident in my views. That was until I found a “hinge point”: one concept that brought it all together.
Christ at the Center 
At first glance, Scripture, and consequently the study of theology, appears to be a collection of stories, ideas, and answers to life’s big questions. It could be viewed as a rule book, or even an instruction manual for righteous living. In reality, it’s a story (and the study of a story) about one person: Jesus Christ. Once I came to this conclusion, I stopped trying to wrap my mind around every concept, every theory, and every isolated school of thought that exists in Church history. Instead, I began to focus on the one consistent theme that runs from cover to cover. 


Not Just a Sunday School Answer 
Before I go on, I want to be clear that by focusing on Jesus, I do not mean that I abandoned the study of theology and just focused on my own person experiences of Jesus. This approach is becoming increasingly popular and it misses the richness that comes from the deep reflection and rumination of active study. Instead, I mean becoming more and more familiar with Christology (The study of Jesus) and using that as a foundation for everything else. 


What is Christology? 
Christology is the study of Christ, or, more accurately, the study of the second person of the Trinity. Among such questions as the nature of Christ (humanity vs deity) and the role of Christ in redemption, Christology grapples with the purpose of Scripture altogether. 


Is Christ a Valid Hinge Point? 
Some struggle to accept Christ as a valid starting point. After all, the Bible is full of material leading up to the first mention of the person Jesus Christ. Certainly the mature reader understands that that material speaks to the prophecies that set the stage for the coming of Christ, but shouldn’t that material all be scrutinized before broaching the subject of Christ Himself? 


When in Rome…
Without a doubt, God revealed Himself to the Jewish people first, long before Jesus walked the earth. This revelation, and the religion that it birthed among the Hebrew people set the stage for the coming of Christ. Judaism and the Law served to set apart a people group that would later become the Church of Jesus Christ. The church would then serve as God’s primary vehicle for redeeming the world. However, the gentile nations (those people who were not the Jews) were not converted by first understanding the Law, and then revealing Christ. Instead, the evangelists to the gentiles started with Christ and used that understanding to teach the rest of Scripture. 


Like Father, Like Church 
Similarly, the early Church Fathers wrestled with many questions surrounding Christ and how He fits into our theological understanding. As the central figure of the Christian faith, a well rounded understanding of the person (both historically and conceptually) was seen as essential to the survival of the orthodox teachings of the Church. While many topics were discussed in the writings of Augustine, Jerome, and Athanasius, the central idea was surrounding Christ Himself. 


Christ: The Perfect Revelation 
Without a doubt, God has revealed Himself since the onset of creation. However, until Christ came in the flesh (specifically as we see Him on the cross) mankind was only given an essential glimpse. Christ on the cross revealed the nature of God as being one of justice, love, and mercy. When we look back into the Old Testament, and see what appears to be a God of wrath and cruelty (one who very much resembles the ancient Canaanite gods who required death and blood), we might be confused with the apparent contrast of a self sacrificing God who gives Himself as the ultimate sin offering. But, when we start with Christ, and use this as a lens for reading the rest of Scripture, we realize that Christ (as the perfect revelation) is the same in Matthew and Mark as he was in Leviticus: taking on the sins of His people and appearing to deserve of death on a cross). All the while, He was redeeming His people by descending to a level we could understand. 


The Beginning & The End 
As a hinge point, Christology holds the study of Theology together. It keeps the student on track and keeps us from majoring in the minors. So much time has been spent debating topics such as young earth and old earth creationism, premillennialism and postmilinialism, and Calvanisn and Arminianism. While these topics can be interesting, and certainly provide beneficial insight for reflection, they often serve to distract us from what’s really important. I believe that a well rounded understanding of Scripture and theology begins and ends with Christ at the center.
]]><![CDATA[HINGE POINTS: SOLVING BIG PROBLEMS WITH SMALL STEPS]]>Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:36:28 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/hinge-points-solving-big-problems-with-small-stepsI don’t know about you, but when I try to learn a new skill or improve in a certain area, I’m very impatient with my progress. I have the idea that I should be an expert, even though I’m just getting started. Truth be told, there are many factors that cause me to feel that way, but I venture to believe that I’m not alone. No one wants to be the rookie, but every master started somewhere. 
INFORMATION OVERLOAD
I believe one of the primary reasons for this feeling is that, especially in this digital age, there is so much information available for every topic imaginable. For the novice, it would seem that finding a thread and following it toward mastery is nearly impossible. I remember when I first started studying Bible and theology. Before I enrolled in seminary, I began my study with a handful of books that my dad had left me when he passed away. I read through these books, only to discover that they were mostly outdated and spoke to only one point of view. When I would try to engage in conversation with others, I quickly realized that my understanding was inept.  

MICROMASTERY
I plan to write another post at a later date walking you through my seminary journey and how I finally came to a point of feeling grounded in my theological understanding, but suffice it to say, I found a foundational principle within the plethora of data; a framework for interpreting any new information that I would discover in the years to follow. Some time later I stumbled upon a book by Robert Twigger entitled, “Micromastery: Learn Small, Learn Fast.” In this book, Twigger explains how learning “micro skills” will give you the basic building blocks for future mastery in any field. For example, learning to properly cook an omelet will give you the necessary skill for mastering any recipe in the future. While this concept was new to me, it’s a timeless truth! Ask any educator and they will tell you that reading is the “micro skill” necessary for all effective learning: teach a student to read and they can teach themselves anything! 

HINGE POINTS
In my own process, I call these “hinge points” because everything else “hinges” on them. I believe that every topic has at least one hinge point and that mastery of that concept (or concepts) can lead to mastery of that topic! So what concept are you trying to understand, or skill are you trying to acquire? What is the most foundational principle holding it all together? Grapple with that principle and you’ll find your way to tackling the whole thing! 
]]><![CDATA[Casting Vision That Lasts]]>Thu, 12 Oct 2017 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/casting-vision-that-lastsThis past week I had the pleasure of enjoying the beauty that is Jamaica. As my family and I landed in Montego Bay and jumped on a bus headed to Ocho Rios, we could not help but admire the magnificent landscape. Passing my breathtaking tree kissed mountain tops, my eyes quickly caught an eerie sight: houses abandoned in a state of partial construction. Being from the bustling suburbs of rapidly growing housing developments, I was utterly shocked to see the absence of driven construction workers bringing the structures to living conditions. Instead, roofless concrete buildings stood like ghost towns. On our full hour and a half ride through the Island, dozens of houses shared this commonality.
After speaking with some of the locals, I quickly discovered that in Jamaica, it is commonplace for one house to take up to three generations before completion! My mind was blown by this concept! In the United States houses are often completed in a matter of months. Jamaican homes are generally constructed from cinder block reinforced with rebar and concrete to withstand the high winds and heavy rains during the hurricane season. What is more, hard work and determination in one week's time typically result in enough money to buy only one cinder block for the residential structure.

     All of this got me thinking about visionary leadership and goal oriented organizations. Too many leaders today present a "flash in the pan" mentality that seek immediate gratification and quick results. The "gurus" of the leadership scene are all the rage - the idol of the aspiring executive. They build big buildings, and they do it fast; big results are their campaign slogan. People love to follow these charismatic skyscrapers. But, to what end? What is really being accomplished? How can visionary leaders learn from this Jamaican construction concept. 

Dedicated Work Ethic
     The long-suffering Jamaican has a paramount advantage over the American consumer. The locals work with a different kind of rhythm than what you'll find in most U.S. organizations. Money doesn't appear to be their primary motivation (after all, the average worker brings in about $80 per month). Their focus seems to be much more anchored toward the task at hand and the completion of something greater than themselves-something community impacting. Each concrete block purchased furthers the next generation. This level of fore-empathy (that is feeling for people yet to come) is very foreign in the fast-paced scene of modern business.

Generational Transcendence
     Another valuable lesson to be learned  is how generations can come together to achieve a common goal. When the first member of the family sets in place the initial cinder block, he knows full well that it maybe his grandson who lays the last. He doesn't intend to finish the project, and accepts the reality that he may never see the final stage. Trust and respect are quintessential to this process - believing that those up and coming are willing and able to finish what has been started. In the same way, vision that begins and ends in one man's lifetime is the lowest form of strategic planning. Vision should transcend the vision caster, soaring beyond where he could ever dream. Let's not forget that the temple in Jerusalem began as a thought in the heart and mind of King David, but didn't see fulfillment until Solomon's reign.

Commitment to Quality Over Quantity
     Finally, Jamaican homes are built to last. In contrast to the cheap materials of the popular tract home, these concrete mammoths are intentionally designed to withstand the fiercest of storms. Quick and easy development often leads to quick and easy collapse. A typical house in the United States my take less than a few month to complete, but the finished product is often unsound-unable to stand the test of time.
Too many "experts" in the field have the next "steps to quick success" and "easy ways to make a million." Rarely is anything that comes easy worth having. Our structure should be sound - sound structures take time to build.

     Vision is a funny thing; it's more of a living being than an abstract thought. Once it has been cast, it takes on a mind of its own. Some may shape its course, and some may find a way to kill it, but if allowed to take on wings it will truly soar. Let it grow organically; taking its time to ensure quality. Work diligently for something beyond immediate gratification. Above all, when the time is right, entrust its completion to the next generation. 
]]><![CDATA[The Problem of Evil]]>Thu, 19 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/the-problem-of-evil     The problem of evil has been called the Achilles heel of Theism – it is the argument that requires the greatest amount of defense and explanation. This is the enigmatic question of, “how can an all-powerful, all-good, God coexist in a world where evil exists?” Anyone who has been faced with a tragic loss or unprovoked misfortune has asked this question in some form or another. Many skeptics have rejected theism for this very reason, and many Christians have turned from the Faith due to inability to rectify this paradox. While this seems to be an unanswerable question, many have attempted to justify God and offer an explanation. 
​Four Biblical Propositions 
     Those who are hindered by the problem of evil find the greatest amount of difficulty in the logical impossibility of a God who coexists with evil yet has the power and the will to stop it. That is to say, if God could stop evil, and if he wants to stop evil, why does evil still exist? Objectors to theism further assert that the Bible teaches these things (that God exists, that God is all-powerful, that God is all-good, and that evil exists) so the Bible must be illogical. Without further analysis, this objection is a difficult one to refute. In an attempt to resolve the problem, several rather extreme approaches have been created. Unfortunately, each of these methods does more damage to theism than they do good. 

​Four Negative Options 
     Since objectors claim that the coexistence of the aforementioned proposition is illogical, many have attempted to "modify" the understanding of theism to bring about a sufficient response. The first proposition, the existence of God, is the target of most objectors (namely the atheists). This method concludes that God is the crux of the logical problem and must, therefore, be eliminated. Unfortunately, when we remove God from the equation, we also remove the other three presuppositions: if there is no God how can He be all-powerful or good; if there is no God to stand as the moral example for determining what is good and what is evil, how can we say that evil exists? While this does solve the initial problem, it creates more in the process. Another modification is to accept that God exists and that God is good but to reject that He is all- powerful. This paints a picture of a transcendent God who wants to put an end to evil but is unable to do so. The result of this conditioning is a philosophy known as finitism. These theories place God up against an equally powerful force that thwarts His righteous endeavors. Conversely, others choose to see God as being all-powerful, but not caring or good. The final attempt at modification is to deny that evil exists. This, however, results in a complicated worldview that will typically lead one to begin to deny reality itself, including God as a transcendent Being. 

Theodicy 

     Each of the aforementioned methods does considerable damage to the theistic view, which is why atheism is a typical result of such thought. The theist also has an answer to the problem of evil: theodicy. Technically, any attempt to justify God in light of the problem of evil is a theodicy. However, most conservative theologians would argue that a true theodicy is one that tries to answer for God while honoring the Truth as God has revealed in – the truth found in Scripture. The theist’s answer to the problem of evil comes in the form of perspectives by which an individual is encouraged to view the world and events, which take places around them. The first perspective has to do with man’s Createdness. Distinct to man, as opposed to the counterpart created order, is being made in the “image and likeness” of God (Gen.1:27). One component of this is man’s free will – the ability to choose and act upon impulse. It would have been impossible for God to create humans, in His image and likeness, without granting this free will; not because He is incapable of this (in the way that dualism asserts) but because doing so would be a logical impossibility. The only way that man could truly be free is if consequences for his choices were also a reality. Consequences for man’s actions often result in what we observe as evil. It is also important to note that evil does not exist as a substance. This denial of evil's substantial existences is not the same as denying that evil exists at all. In life, several things are not substances within themselves, but simply the absence of something else (i.e. the absence of light is darkness). These things only exist because something else does not – evil is then the absence of good. Since God has granted man free will, as per the requirement for genuine humanity, man may choose to deny what he knows to be good, thus actualizing evil. The actions carried out by man often result in unfortunate circumstances for them and those around them. On a much larger scale, the introduction of evil to world and race by the first people (Gen. 3) has created a world that is full of evil components: natural catastrophes, malicious actions, and a depraved nature in man (Rom. 1). The most important aspect of the theistic response is found in the act of redemption carried out by God through the Second Person of the Trinity: Jesus Christ. Even though it was man (all humankind) who has brought forth the reality of evil to the world, it was God who ultimately paid the price. Jesus Christ took on the full weight of sin and evil and paid the ultimate price of death. When the skeptic asks how an all-powerful, all-good, God can coexist with evil, it must be realized that God must exist in order for evil to be identified (He stands as the moral object by which we determine such a thing), He must be all-powerful in order to lay down his life and raise it up again (through Jesus Christ), and must be good in order to take the punishment that rightly belonged to mankind on Himself. In short, God's act of redemption answers the problem of evil. 
]]><![CDATA[Theism: A Primer]]>Thu, 05 Jan 2017 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.devinpeterson.com/field-notes-in-formation/theism-a-primer     Theism simply means, “belief in God.” The Theist is an individual who bases his life on the presupposition that there is a God and lives according to the implications that such a belief contributes to the world in which he lives. Conversely, an atheist is one who does not believe in God and lives his life with the implications of this worldview. Another opponent to theism is agnosticism, which derived from the Greek word “γνωστός” (gnostos) meaning known – agnosticism objects that knowledge of a deity cannot be confirmed or denied. While atheism and agnosticism have become prominent teachings in society today, they base their foundations on rather weak arguments that do not stand the test of logical consideration. Theism is a “first truth” meaning that it is universal (applicable to all cultures and periods of time), necessary (it must exist), independent (does not depend on being taught). This reality serves as an unshakable foundation for the theistic argument. 
The Priority of Theism 
     Along with being a first truth, theism is also a rational intuition, innate knowledge, and a self-evident truth. There are only a small number of things in life that can be listed as “innate” or instinctive. These are things that do not have to be taught and are natural responses to occurrences in life. Those who are honest with themselves will realize a fundamental knowledge of what is beyond them that is present and apparently at work in reality. Of course, this innate knowledge does not reveal enough about this Being to formulate a conclusion about who He is or what He wants, but it does demand a response on the observer to believe or not believe. Consequently, this ultimatum does not exclude the observer from the implications of this reality. 

The Positive Assertion of Theism 
     One thing that makes theism unique to its opponents (namely atheism and agnosticism) is that it affirms what is rather than what is not (or what cannot be, regarding the agnostic belief that knowledge of God cannot be obtained). For the theist, unobtainable feats of knowledge are not necessary. However, for the opponents to theism, an omniscient individual is necessary to deny God’s existence. How could someone, unless they possessed all knowledge, state that an omniscient being does not (or cannot) exist. This is an absurd claim – one that makes the argument for theism much more logical. 

Evidence for Theism 
     Beyond the positiveness of theism lie four arguments that have been used for centuries to reinforce the claim.1 The first of these arguments is the cosmological argument that looks to creation (namely the universe) to prove the existence of an eternal creator. Secondly, the teleological argument looks to defend the existence of God by way of the intricacy of design in the universe – design that confirms the existence of a designer. Many theists also use the anthropomorphic argument, which asserts the existence of man as clear proof of a prototype, which served as inspiration for mankind. Lastly, some have used the ontological argument, which offers that our conception of God is enough to prove that He exists.2 These four arguments have served as a fantastic framework by which many great thinkers have deduced that there must be an eternal Being present and at work around us. 
]]>