Joshua Balarie

I think about challenging reading like exercise. A reading plan is like creating and committing to an exercise plan. Difficult and daunting at times, but actually quite pleasant in the swing of things, with a solid sense of accomplishment after each session. That’s what reading The Bible every morning feels like: a workout for my brain.

And to extend this: I see people online constantly lamenting that they can't make or keep friends in adulthood, as if friendship is something that just happens to you rather than something you actively create. This, too, requires intentional effort. Want to get invited to dinner parties? Start throwing them. Menu planning, grocery runs, washing dis... See more

Consider the parents who will tell you, with tears in their eyes, that having children is the most meaningful thing they've ever done. Ask these same people about sleepless nights with colicky babies, teenage rebellion, college tuition anxiety, or the daily negotiations over screen time and vegetables. They won't deny the work... they'll tell you i... See more

We tend to grossly overestimate the pleasure brought forth by new experiences and underestimate the power of finding meaning in current ones.

The 10-year yield serves as a bellwether for the broader economy. When it fluctuates sharply, it signals investor uncertainty about future growth, inflation, or interest rates — all factors that influence everyday financial decisions.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.