Redeeming Productivity
Getting More Done for the Glory of God by Reagan Rose
“Productivity has been hijacked, and it’s time we take it back,” so begins Reagan Rose in his book: Redeeming Productivity. Reagan devotes ten chapters to explore how the world has redefined productivity through techniques which “rarely come along.” Suffice it to say that Reagan is not against techniques and methods, however he notes that “only when we have our theological foundation right can we start to build productive practices that truly honour God.”
Reagan’s book is structured between pillars and practices. These five pillars, which include the origin, purpose, content, power, and motivation for productivity, are drawn from the bible. For example, Reagan notes that the world’s self-centered philosophy of life is opposed to that of the bible which defines life with reference to God who is the creator and sustainer of everyone. Thus, in chapter one he reminds the reader that “Christian productivity is not primarily about who we are, but whose we are.”
Christians have been sucked into the world’s view of productivity which thinks that life is about us rather than for God’s glory. A biblical understanding of one’s origin (created by God) will fuel one’s purpose which is to glorify God. He writes, “The world will say we are here to make ourselves happy, rich, and successful. But all of these purposes fall short of our true and ultimate purpose: we exist to glorify God.”
Alongside these pillars are five practices to help the reader organize their work and life within a biblical worldview. First, Reagan admonishes the reader to craft a morning routine because it sets the tone for the rest of the day. He writes,
Since I write and talk about productivity for a living, I often get asked some version of the question, “What’s your number one productivity tip?” And while there are dozens of practices I could recommend that can help someone become a better steward of their time, the answer I give is always the same: start with your mornings.
Reagan affirms that morning habits as reading the Bible, journaling, praying, organizing, and exercising allows us to give God the best of our time and energy.
Another overarching theme of Reagan’s book is the reminder that we are stewards of our lives. Throughout the book, Reagan uses the parable of tenant to drive home this point. Just as the servants gave an account to their master, we all will someday give an account to God for how we used the resources, time, and skills he gave us. This should free us from jealousy and discontentment because, “It’s not about competing to be the best or most productive. It’s about making the most of what the Lord has given us.” We are motivated to lead faithful and fruitful lives because we know whose we are, and someday we will hear that divine accolade, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
From a personal perspective, this book has been both challenging and a blessing. I have been motivated to glorify Christ as I better organize my day, set goals, and track my commitments whilst being free from the overwhelming pressure of a “me-centred” success. I highly recommend this book.
Bonus: I was pleased to host Reagan on the first episode of my new podcast, “Into Books.” Please give it a listen and share!
RESOURCE LINKS
Reagan’s book is available on Moody Publishers
Reagan’s website Redeeming Productivity