In "What's Best Next" Matthew Perman offers a great tool for understanding the relationship between the gospel and productivity. All too often Christians can fall into a fear of productivity or a pragmatic approach. The fear of productivity is seen when Christians see productivity as "unspiritual" whereas the pragmatic approach seeks to accomplish the most as effective as possible without regard for how the gospel influences priorities.

In the book, Perman begins by laying out the importance of putting God first in our productivity. Doing so allows us to avoid the pitfalls of both being unproductive and focusing on efficiency rather than effectiveness. Getting things done is important for believers because God values us getting the right things done as part of our discipleship.

After laying the foundation for the "why", Perman offers the "how" to increase productivity. Here Perman does well to bring together deep principles with deep practicality by looking at what I would call rhythms that help with productivity. Doing the right things daily positions one well for accomplishing the right things in the long run.

I believe this book is valuable both for pastors, who unfortunately have a reputation in many circles for being inefficient. The book is also valuable for Christian professionals who desire to have a deeper understanding of how the gospel impacts everyday life and work.

Interesting, and the author writes well. Definitely makes you think.