5

There are plenty of things to be upset, angry, depressed, frustrated, anxious, sad and paranoid about in my week. I think it is far easier to be a cynic than it is to be optimistic. My wife is constantly challenging me on my pessimistic outlook which I am constantly trying to defend as "realistic." Her life verse is from the book of Philippians, Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. So in honor of my bestfriend, I will let you know my top 5 things to dwell upon each week to keep my thoughts on the right track (in no particular order).

1. Time with God. Whether this be in prayer (which I am horrible at), Bible reading, reading some book that challenges my thoughts, journal writing, or just sitting and reflecting. I love being able to spend time with God whenever I want. I love that God desires intimacy with me. I love that I follow a God of love and grace. I don't do this enough, but when I do I see how critical it is to my life.
2. Time with my wife. As the Kenny Chesney song says it, "no one can make me cry, make me laugh, make me smile, or drive me mad like she does." I do not think it is possible for me to love anyone else as much as I love her. She challenges me, she drives me to be a better person, she won't let me settle, she loves me despite my flaws, and when she smiles it makes me know everything will always be okay. God has made many amazing things in this world, but He hit his creative apex with my wife.
3. Time with my kids. I absolutely love my boys. They are among the greatest gifts God has ever given me. They make me laugh. They challenge my weaknesses. They make me cry when they want to snuggle and Trenton says "love u" to me to. They are so wild and crazy and yet so gentle in spirit. I cannot begin to comprehend how much better of a man I am because of their impact on my life.
4. Time with friends & family. Honestly this does not happen enough. I have a great family. My parents & siblings are amazing. I don't deserve them. My "family-in-laws" are awesome too. Its no doubt where Danielle got her incredibleness. Finally, I have such great friends. I could not make it through life without their advice, friendship, and willingness to help me process things without judgement.
5. Time spent with students and servant ministers @ church. I get a great opportunity to spend time with students and adults serving students. They are all such a blessing to me. When I get frustrated with the church or overwhelmed by the politics, I remember it is all about them. Ministry is people, and when I remember that I am on cloud nine.

So these 5 things are what I try to think about and spend my time on. I believe they are all "excellent & praiseworthy" and so that is where my heart and mind will focus on. My challenge to you? What's your 5?