The Busy Christian's Guide to Busyness by Tim Chester
Week 4: Chapter 3 — Busyness and the Desire for Approval
Read Chapter 3 of The Busy Christian's Guide to Busyness. Key passages to consider: Galatians 1:10; John 12:42-43.
Previewing Week 4 of The Busy Christian's Guide to Busyness
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 11-week guide when you’re ready.
This chapter gets personal: Chester suggests that one of the most powerful engines of busyness is our hunger for other people's approval. Read with a willingness to see yourself honestly.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Chester identifies the 'fear of man' — the craving for human approval — as a major driver of busyness. In what practical ways does the desire for others' approval tend to fill up your calendar? Can you think of a specific recent example?
2.He points out that saying yes to requests is often easier than saying no because 'no' risks disapproval. How much does the fear of someone's disappointment or frustration shape your response to requests on your time?
3.Chester draws on Paul's statement in Galatians 1:10 — 'If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.' What does Paul mean, and how does Chester apply it to the problem of busyness? Is there a tension between healthy people-pleasing (kindness, service) and the disordered kind Paul is addressing?