Slow-Down Spirituality: A Conversation with David Goodman
Feb 27, 2024
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David Goodman shares his journey from OBGYN to New City, focusing on community, shared rhythms, and evolving faith practices. The podcast explores spiritual growth, transformation through books, the power of habits, living a fasting-focused life, and integrating prayer into daily life.
David's pivotal moment in Africa led to a shift in career and intentional spiritual practices
Integrating intentional habits like fasting and Sabbath can positively impact relationships and personal growth
Deep dives
Embarking on a Slowdown Journey Towards Intentional Spiritual Formation
David, an OBGYN, reflects on his transformative journey towards intentional spiritual formation shared through practices at New City. He emphasizes how moving to Africa for mission work led to a pivotal moment, triggering a realization about his broken habits. This revelation prompted him to delve into understanding how habits shape lives, ultimately guiding him to make significant life decisions.
Embracing Wisdom Through Shifts in Career and Spiritual Growth
David's experience in Africa highlighted his need for personal growth, leading him to reject opportunities in Africa and embrace a shift in his career by moving to Orlando. Immersed in practices from 'You Are What You Love' by Jamie Smith and 'The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry' by John Mark Comer, his spiritual journey unfolds, emphasizing the pursuit of wisdom and intentional transformation.
Impact of Practices on Relationships and Personal Growth
David discusses the impact of intentional practices on relationships, revealing how habits like fasting have enhanced communication and vulnerability with his spouse. He reflects on integrating Sabbath practices and 'Power Hour' with his kids, fostering deeper connections and peaceful family dynamics. Personal reflection, prayer, and deliberate interactions have manifested positive growth in various facets of his life.
Recommendations for Spiritual Formation and Avoiding Legalism
David provides insights on initiating spiritual formation, emphasizing a focus on individual practices for a month to avoid feeling overwhelmed. He highlights the importance of finding resources like the 'All of Life Guide' and 'Practicing the Way,' coupled with committing to consistent practices over time. Addressing concerns about legalism, he encourages aligning intentions towards a life with God, emphasizing the transformative aspect of opening oneself to divine influence.
In this episode, Benjamin Kandt talks with David Goodman about some of the elements from our Slow-Down Spirituality learning event earlier this month. David was originally going to participate as a leader and help with the teaching of the event, so this conversation is a way to recap some of the principles and practices that were shared there.
Here are some of the resources mentioned, as well as other helpful items: