A phrase in the quote below has prompted much reflection:
I didn’t realize how much I relied on urgency as a substitute for structure. It wasn’t good. I don’t recommend it. So now I’m learning, or trying to learn, how to give myself structure, how to set limits. Flexibility has served me well. I needed it. Now I need to shift into something different. ─Annie Mueller
The following thought questions might be helpful in pondering and applying the quote above:
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What is it, either one thing or a group of things, that gives needed structure to our lives?
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How does a Christian deal with structure and flexibility, especially considering the model in the New Testament for faith and practice?
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Where is the golden mean between never making a decision and letting urgency determine how we decide?
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The quote above suggests that there are times when more flexibility is needed, other times when structure is more welcome. Is that true? How does that work over time?
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What can the disciple of Christ count on for his necessary structure in terms of setting limits, making decisions, and managing life transitions?
It's interesting how we drift into urgency. I have structure (mainstay), but I have slipped into urgency a number of times and, mostly, not pleased with the end result.