Chop Wood. Carry Water

We trust that you had a great Christmas and were able to spend some meaningful time with family and friends. With a little free time in our schedules over the break, many of us naturally began reflecting, learning, and thinking ahead to the year to come. During that time, we were prompted by a book we read called Chop Wood Carry Water.

The Heart of the Story

It’s a fictional tale about a man who travels to Japan to become a samurai archer. However, he discovers that the deeper lesson isn’t about mastery or achievement. The real joy comes from doing the right things day in and day out. It’s about the mundane. The repetition. Showing up faithfully to take care of the little things.

That idea resonates deeply as we consider our Christian walk. Following Jesus isn’t usually dramatic or flashy. It’s often found in the daily routine of obedience, service, and trust. Yes, we have the eternal hope of heaven. Jesus secured that for us on the cross through His death and resurrection. Salvation is not something we earn; it is a gift.

Life as a Marathon

But life here on earth looks far more like a marathon than a sprint. The Apostle Paul uses this exact imagery when he talks about faith as a race. One step at a time. Eyes forward. Staying the course.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Hebrews 12:1–2

Practical Steps in Our Faith Journey

So what does that look like practically?

It looks like waking up early to open the Bible when no one else is watching. It seems like making time for prayer in the middle of busy schedules. It looks like showing up for people consistently, even when they don’t always show up for us. It looks like working hard and leading with integrity at work, at home, and in our relationships as husbands, fathers, and friends.

There is no shortage of responsibility in our lives as men.

And if you’re reading this while mentally racing toward the next email or task on your list, let’s pause for just a second.

Our True Value

Here’s the truth we need to hear again and again: Our value comes from who we are, not from what we do.

Our value to God is already settled. It is infinite and unchanging. God is far more concerned with the man we are becoming than the accomplishments we stack up. He already won the prize for us when He sent His Son to the cross. There is nothing left to prove.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8–10

Reflecting on Our Growth

As we look toward a new year, maybe the question isn’t, “What do I want to achieve?” Perhaps it’s, “Who do I want to become?”

In his book, Medcalf suggests writing down five character traits to focus on and revisit daily. Things like courage, humility, empathy, gratitude, persistence, joy, or love. What about us? What kind of man do you want to be this year?

The Importance of Daily Faithfulness

Until then, keep chopping wood. Keep carrying water. The daily faithfulness matters more than you know. 👊

Building a Supportive Community

In our journey, it’s essential to surround ourselves with a supportive community. We can lean on each other for encouragement and accountability. Whether it’s through small groups, church activities, or casual meet-ups, let’s commit to being there for one another.

Embracing the Journey Together

Let’s embrace this journey together. We’re all in this as brothers, striving to grow in our faith and character. When we support each other, we create a stronger bond and a more profound impact in our community.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we step into this new year, let’s commit to our daily routines with renewed vigor. Let’s encourage one another to stay the course, focusing on who we want to become rather than just what we want to achieve.

Together, we can cultivate a life of purpose and faithfulness. Let’s keep chopping wood and carrying water, knowing that every small act of faith matters.