Do Hard Things

I have been reading the book Do Hard Things by twin brothers Alex & Brett Harris. After reading this book, I feel that it should be a must-read for all teenagers. One of the amazing things about this book is that it is written for teenagers by teenagers. It is a call for a teenage rebellion against low expectations. At the start of the book, Alex and Bret invite readers to explore some radical questions. Let me share them with you here:

• Is it possible that even though teens today have more freedom than any other generation in history, we’re actually missing out on some of the best years of our lives?


• Is it possible that what our culture says about the purpose and potential of the teen years is a lie and that we are its victims?


• Is it possible that our teen years give us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for huge accomplishments – as individuals and as a generation?


• And finally, what would our lives look like if we set out on a different path entirely – a path that required more effort but promised a lot more rewards?

I am impressed with the wisdom, maturity, and spiritual depth of these two young men. They are challenging their peers to consider something outside themselves and pursue a path that can change the world.

If you have not read this book yet, I would recommend getting a copy and reading it. I am strongly considering a teaching series on Wednesday nights this fall built around the material in this book.

If you want to learn more about Alex and Bret, you can visit their website: www.THEREBELution.com. There you will find their blog as well other information about their life, dreams, and passions.

One of the verses that Alex and Brett quote is 1 Timothy 4:12: “Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.” Often, Christian teenagers are more often being told what not to do than they are what to do. Alex and Brett would argue, and I agree, that Christianity needs to be as much – if not more – about what we do as it is about what we don’t do.

Are there certain behaviors and habits we need to avoid? Absolutely! But if all we do is live to avoid poor choices, we won’t discover the abundant life Jesus speaks of in John 10. Instead, let us consider the words of Paul in 2 Timothy 2:22: “Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.”

shine!

Jason