Ploductivity: A Practical Theology of Work & Wealth

This is an enjoyable and quite useful book on productivity and proper placement of things into a practical, living, and working theology and their purpose in one's overall life. Doug Wilson is a sound thinker and quite solid voice for our day and an exceedingly helpful guide in encountering, engaging, and responding in intelligible and realistic ways to all that is coming at us in this crazy world. I could hear his voice in my head as I read through this delightful little volume as if he were reading it to me. That only added to the charm and way that he has about him in relaying his intended message to his audience whether it is humorous, whimsical, ghastly, dire, or just good ole common sense and practicality. Learning to consistently and effectively be productive by stewarding your time and resources in a diligent yet patiently plodding sort of way has been a seemingly obvious yet untapped technique, and I am already implementing it in my life and thought process. To say I'm enthusiastic about reading another Doug Wilson book is full candor.

Having grown up thoroughly entrenched in midwestern Chridtianity, I've always felt a conflict between ambition and godliness. Wilson points out that in my sort of paradigm, there's a false dichotomy. He removes sin from tools and trades and places it where it belongs: in our hearts. The tools, technology, and other forms of wealth don't carry sin in themselves; that's something we workers bring to the table. This is not a guide to working productively. This is a practical Christian worldview of work and wealth. Very glad to have read it.

Mr. Wilson provides some helpful gems here and there. For that, I am thankful. But his rhetoric is poor. For example, here is a sentence from the beginning of chapter two: “The sin enters in when the means of self-sufficiency are placed in the hands of someone who has entirely the wrong attitude about autonomous self-sufficiency.” Moreover, Mr. Wilson’s use of the old King James translation is a bit confusing and troubling. Why he chose not to use the ESV as the predominant translation is beyond me. I mean, multiple times in the text he references the ESV translation as being the more accurate interpretation, so it is puzzling to the reasonable reader as to why he stuck with the old KJV. See e.g., pgs. 14, 24, etc. And for those not familiar with the old KJV, it makes reading this book far more frustrating than it needed to be. I am thankful that Mr. Wilson is a solid man of faith, and that he has done wonderful things for the kingdom of God, but I am disappointed with Ploductivity.

Loved this book. A fast read and a FRESH (finally) take on “Christ and Culture.” No tips, but trust that a human in connection with the Living God and His general principles will know the steps to take.

I have read many productivity books. I have even read many productivity books written from a Christian perspective. Previously my favorite in both areas was Do More Better by atom Challies. Today, that book has been supplanted. It is not because Ploductivity gives a superior system than these other books. Instead, it is because the author brings the truth of the accessibility of true productivity, while affirming a need for the motivation o come from above. Great book. Easy read. It will have far reaching impact in my life.

A very quick, profitable, read. It reminded me of a conversation I had with R J Rushdoony in mid 80s over how to read and what! Great inspiring read and a better reminder of first principles. Labor is good. Pondered long over the thought that wealth is the accumulation of labor. Mine and those I choose to labor with. Very enjoyable read.

Been on a Douglas Wilson kick lately, and I am enjoying it. This book was helpful, insightful, and entertaining. Plenty of insights in this short book that give you plenty to think about. This is the type of book that has those insights that end up changing your worldview in a positive way, even if it is only slightly. I thank and praise the Lord Jesus Christ for the faithful and wise men that He raises up for the benefit of the Body of Christ, always to His glory.

I really wish everyone would read this. Mr. Wilson kicks complacent faith in the face without breaking a sweat in this sweet little book. The first part of the book makes a case for godly ambition and the stewardship of the tools God has provided us while the latter part has practical application and encouragement. I was compelled to keep chipping away at fruitful work.

I am already a Doug Wilson fan, and when I saw this book release, I immediately recognized its likely value. Wilson presents a picture I so often struggle to remember—that of a tree bearing fruit—as an image of what our work ought to be like. I found this book to be very helpful. Thank you, Doug, for all you do!

With his usual wit and charm, Wilson makes quick work of the topic of productivity according to the most important book in history. He concisely, expertly reduces complex, age-old studies like wealth and economics to relatable concepts in the modern era, while keeping consistent with Biblical standards, timeless ethics and proverbial wisdom. There's nothing new under the sun, and Wilson continues to simplify what we make unnecessarily complex. If you want to know how man can thrive exponentially for the glory of God and see these as the complimentary aspects of the Gospel as they are, this will butter your biscuit. I've read countless productivity books and this one tops them all by grounding our fleeting pursuits not just why and how, but what, or rather, Who, productivity is for.

This is an enjoyable and quite useful book on productivity and proper placement of things into a practical, living, and working theology and their purpose in one's overall life. Doug Wilson is a sound thinker and quite solid voice for our day and an exceedingly helpful guide in encountering, engaging, and responding in intelligible and realistic ways to all that is coming at us in this crazy world. I could hear his voice in my head as I read through this delightful little volume as if he were reading it to me. That only added to the charm and way that he has about him in relaying his intended message to his audience whether it is humorous, whimsical, ghastly, dire, or just good ole common sense and practicality. Learning to consistently and effectively be productive by stewarding your time and resources in a diligent yet patiently plodding sort of way has been a seemingly obvious yet untapped technique, and I am already implementing it in my life and thought process. To say I'm enthusiastic about reading another Doug Wilson book is full candor.

Having grown up thoroughly entrenched in midwestern Chridtianity, I've always felt a conflict between ambition and godliness. Wilson points out that in my sort of paradigm, there's a false dichotomy. He removes sin from tools and trades and places it where it belongs: in our hearts. The tools, technology, and other forms of wealth don't carry sin in themselves; that's something we workers bring to the table. This is not a guide to working productively. This is a practical Christian worldview of work and wealth. Very glad to have read it.

Mr. Wilson provides some helpful gems here and there. For that, I am thankful. But his rhetoric is poor. For example, here is a sentence from the beginning of chapter two: “The sin enters in when the means of self-sufficiency are placed in the hands of someone who has entirely the wrong attitude about autonomous self-sufficiency.” Moreover, Mr. Wilson’s use of the old King James translation is a bit confusing and troubling. Why he chose not to use the ESV as the predominant translation is beyond me. I mean, multiple times in the text he references the ESV translation as being the more accurate interpretation, so it is puzzling to the reasonable reader as to why he stuck with the old KJV. See e.g., pgs. 14, 24, etc. And for those not familiar with the old KJV, it makes reading this book far more frustrating than it needed to be. I am thankful that Mr. Wilson is a solid man of faith, and that he has done wonderful things for the kingdom of God, but I am disappointed with Ploductivity.

Loved this book. A fast read and a FRESH (finally) take on “Christ and Culture.” No tips, but trust that a human in connection with the Living God and His general principles will know the steps to take.

I have read many productivity books. I have even read many productivity books written from a Christian perspective. Previously my favorite in both areas was Do More Better by atom Challies. Today, that book has been supplanted. It is not because Ploductivity gives a superior system than these other books. Instead, it is because the author brings the truth of the accessibility of true productivity, while affirming a need for the motivation o come from above. Great book. Easy read. It will have far reaching impact in my life.

A very quick, profitable, read. It reminded me of a conversation I had with R J Rushdoony in mid 80s over how to read and what! Great inspiring read and a better reminder of first principles. Labor is good. Pondered long over the thought that wealth is the accumulation of labor. Mine and those I choose to labor with. Very enjoyable read.

Been on a Douglas Wilson kick lately, and I am enjoying it. This book was helpful, insightful, and entertaining. Plenty of insights in this short book that give you plenty to think about. This is the type of book that has those insights that end up changing your worldview in a positive way, even if it is only slightly. I thank and praise the Lord Jesus Christ for the faithful and wise men that He raises up for the benefit of the Body of Christ, always to His glory.

I really wish everyone would read this. Mr. Wilson kicks complacent faith in the face without breaking a sweat in this sweet little book. The first part of the book makes a case for godly ambition and the stewardship of the tools God has provided us while the latter part has practical application and encouragement. I was compelled to keep chipping away at fruitful work.

I am already a Doug Wilson fan, and when I saw this book release, I immediately recognized its likely value. Wilson presents a picture I so often struggle to remember—that of a tree bearing fruit—as an image of what our work ought to be like. I found this book to be very helpful. Thank you, Doug, for all you do!

With his usual wit and charm, Wilson makes quick work of the topic of productivity according to the most important book in history. He concisely, expertly reduces complex, age-old studies like wealth and economics to relatable concepts in the modern era, while keeping consistent with Biblical standards, timeless ethics and proverbial wisdom. There's nothing new under the sun, and Wilson continues to simplify what we make unnecessarily complex. If you want to know how man can thrive exponentially for the glory of God and see these as the complimentary aspects of the Gospel as they are, this will butter your biscuit. I've read countless productivity books and this one tops them all by grounding our fleeting pursuits not just why and how, but what, or rather, Who, productivity is for.

Great little book demonstrating the importance of work as well as a few tips on being more productive. A must read for those looking to accomplish more with the time they are given.

Productivity that I'll buy. As usual, Doug made me think about why I'm doing what I'm doing. I've made GTD an idol at times and I exhausted myself. This book has truly help in killing that idol. Now I gotta make sure the zombie stays dead, 🤔.

If your experience with productivity books has left you feeling worse than when you picked them up, or if you are tired of fad gimmicks that seem to complicate your busy schedule, then this book may be just what you’re looking for. Straightforward biblical wisdom for playing the long game and glorifying God with the work he has planned for us.

I appreciated the biblical principles of wealth and work applied to the world I see outside of my window (and inside of my own head). If you're a Christian who has developed a tendency towards striving after your results more than Christ's rest, then this book is an easily consumed encouragement to calm the storms in your head and set you back on a productive and persevering course...for the glory of God.

If you're not reaching your potential (and you're not) this book is for you! Wilson is much like the Apostle Paul here. He gives the reader practical application regarding productivity but he saturates it with the Gospel. Read it and do it! Accomplish great things for God bit by bit.

Wilson thinks a great deal about everyday concepts. Thankfully he analyzes through a lens of Scripture. The application of biblical principles & theology of work, good, and wealth generate more delicious food for thought for this stay-at-home mom.

This is a no-nonsense read that does not fool around trying to be clever. It is actionable and a provides a solid foundation will prove to be priceless.

If Durable Trades by Rory Groves is the reference book for a generation of men looking to restart their work in different professions/trades, this is the handbook they should have in their back pocket to remind them of the telos, or purpose, of their work.

Excellent book and an engaging read. Doug is profoundly capable in getting to the heart of a matter, always via The Word of God. A blessing of a book that has planted many seeds of wisdom in my life and household and nudged me away from my uneasiness surrounding the immense technology of our age, with a grasp of how that can actually be used wisely for the Kingdom.

Doug has written a masterful anti-manichean, anti-gnostic orientation to the goodness of the grace of God, in the good world He created, and that Christ as King is conquering to present to His and our Father. Our nano-plodding has value solely because of Jesus and His purposes I highlighted many items. His various definitions and analyses of situations are edifying and thought-provoking.

Recently finished the book. I will be giving it a second read. Mr. Wilson presents simple and common sense wisdom in regards to tools, work and productivity. He also causes one to stop and think. He challenges your perspective, thinking and even your present strategy. The book is a good and useful read. It’s very practical.

A helpful view of work and how Christians should think about it. Thank you Mr Wilson for yet another great read. As a housewife and employee, considering God's purpose in work has been very encouraging.

This book was easy to read with short chapters and digestible content. Doug Wilson does a great job of defining the terms and providing practical insight into the tools of our day and our work. It was a help to me!

It was okay…😒

This is the best book on productivity I’ve ever read, and Doug Wilson is an extremely entertaining writer. You will not be disappointed. I highly recommended this book for it’s practical advise and biblical wisdom.

An easy read, but packed full of opportunities for future study. Left me most with a desire to use the time God has given me well, and unto the Lord (not unto myself). Thank you Pastor Wilson.

Doug layers theology perfectly to justify the kingdom work of “productivity”! This is a great short read and a great way to start the new year!

I really enjoyed it, but it seemed to be more of a Christian defensive of tools specifically digital tools. But the few gems about productivity were quite helpful, but overall I really enjoyed it.

Really put it all in perspective ! Has a delightful sence of humor. Motivates you to use all you have for the glory of God.

Easy read and great biblical instruction.

I loved this book, but it's also not what I thought it was going to be about. Doug Wilson is astonishingly productive as a reader, author, blogger, leader, pastor, and entrepreneur. I have been fascinated by how his influence has grown over the years and read many of his books. I thought this book would be more focused on productivity tips given the title. (For an example, his book Wordsmithy on writing is one of the most practical writing books I have ever come across, full of book recommendations and actionable tips - I expected something more along those lines here.) But for what this was, I loved it. Not sure how many people I will recommend it to in my circle, but I was able to get a lot of useful nuggets out of the book. Here are some of things that I'm still pondering and working over in my mind: * Technology is a form of wealth. As Christians, we have a responsibility to use wealth, and technology, effectively. Great argument here, one that I was aware of but Wilson takes further than just a surface reading. * Worrying about the future is outside of our purview. * God has ordained good works for us - work hard at the work in front of you. * Do small things everyday and you will be productive. * The future is going to be great, Jesus is in charge. It's weird to read a Christian book and notice how optimistic it is about our current and future states compared to most of what is out there. Don't expect a lot of practical advice, but look forward to some profound insights into modern wealth and time management for Christians. Recommended.

I would like to preface the following review of this book by saying that I attend Doug Wilson's church and have greatly benefited from his thought and some of his other writings, particularly on the Christian family. That said, I did not find this book very helpful or compelling. Ploductivity makes a few good, general points (e.g., technology, like all forms of wealth, is not inherently evil), but is pretty redundant and not very practical as regards productivity. While purporting to be "a practical theology of work and wealth," in other words, the book lives up to the "theology" aspect much better than the "practical" aspect. Overall, I do not think Wilson has achieved his goal--stated in the introduction--of writing the last book on productivity you'll ever need (I would much rather award that accolade to Tim Challies' Do More Better, a book of similar length to this one but much more practically helpful for productive living). Incidentally, I find Wilson's habit of referencing (or even directly quoting!) other authors in this book without citing his sources to be troublesome--a biblical habit, perhaps (see Matt. 2:23), but still not very academically or authorially responsible.

How do we live in light of wealth and work? Gospel and material blessing? How do we encourage the blind of the blessing of sight in a new creation or the lame in leaping one day; especially in light of heretical health and wealth doctrines? With hermeneutical challenges by the socialists on how to handle wealth, how is a Christian to respond? Douglas Wilson takes an approach that is less of "do this" or "do that" as far as productivity goes, but rather the crux is living corem Deo, rightly in God's created order under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. But what does that look like? How does this impact our businesses and our menial efforts? I don't always read a book in one sitting, but when I do, it is a book of this quality. Well written, easy to read, saturated with Scripture, and practical for our lives. In a day and age that pressures for ministry towards godliness as though they are the Roman Catholic church of the 16th century, we really need to revive the message of station and spheres. How do we operate in our station and how do we steward in our spheres? This book is in no way exhaustive and while I asked several questions the book doesn't, I think it will answer them and more. After reading this, you will likely want to do those dishes a little better, study a little harder, and write a little bit better. I highly recommend!

My difficulty in writing this review lies in having too much to say about it, rather than not having enough. In this helpful work, Wilson uses two sections to present first the theology of productivity (work, wealth, tools, media/matter, missions & media/matter, markets and progress, as well as the theology of glad suspicion). In the second section, learning Ploductivity, we read how to put thoughtfulness, elbow grease and shoe leather to our theology of work, and at a pace that can be maintained over time. Having highlighted far too many sections of this book, I’d like to share just one of my favorite excerpts. “Many people put off working on something until they have been able to “carve out” adequate time to work on it. They need elbow room in order to get it done, and since they never get the adequate elbow room, they never get the work done. “I could write the great American novel if I only had three months free and clear . . .” And of course, three free months, free and clear, are not to be had... But you likely have another spare fifteen minutes a day lying about, not to mention some other possible projects you have your eye on. Chip away at them. Do a little bit, and do not fall for the idea that unless you can pour yourself into something for half a year, there is no point doing it at all.” Simple. Yet profound. For the Christian who is sometimes overwhelmed at the speed of modern life, who has limited time, focus, or energy (young kids not amazing sleepers, anyone, or is it just me?), who has a fairly regular daily routine, you are a plodder. So be a faithful plodder, a purposeful one, and a theologically sound one, Wilson admonishes. As part of proper theology and applied theology of work and productivity, I appreciated the focus on mastery of ones craft. Again, Wilson says it better than I in chapter 11, The Master Key. “It is impossible to read through the Scriptures and come to the conclusion that the Lord thinks slipshod work is good enough. I have mentioned that over the years I have had far too many dealings with Christian merchants, builders, professionals, and so on, who have somehow incorporated into their mission statement something along the lines of “Christians aren’t perfect, just forgiven.” Again, while it is true that our salvation is by grace through faith, not of works lest any man boast, it remains true that if you routinely install people’s cabinets upside down, the word will get around town.” For the man or woman who wants to be “fruitful like a tree, and not efficient like a machine”, Ploductivity is a helpful and inspiring read. Whatever your opinion of Douglas Wilson, it is not a stretch to say that he is a master of this form of Ploductivity. The wisdom and insight contained in this book will aid you in your Christian walk and work. Highly recommend this newest release from Cannon Press.

This book serves as a good reminder of a handful of central theological points held by one school of interpretation. Though I believe that these points are the best understanding of things, this book does little to defend the conclusion that they are best. It may be helpful to put it this way: The book is the display of a corporeal-focused, laissez-faire postmillennialism with humor performed on cue via cliches from modern everyday life. Also, the book might have been improved by omitting the accolades written at the start and the end--by his daughter and then the author respectively.

Plodding, it seems to me, is the story of any family man who seeks to serve Christ and be creative. Doug goes beyond that however by not only justifying plodding but by endorsing it as the only real way forward. Additionally, he shows quite masterfully how God has given us, those particularly in the West, the wealth / means to accomplish more than ever. Wealth that is all too often attributed to "Satan's devices."

I am not an eloquent writer. I can hardly do justice to this amazing book. So full of wisdom and practical insight on using our things for the glory of God, the advancement of His kingdom, and the good of our neighbors. This is not a book that bashes technology, or that worships it. This is solid biblical teaching that whets my appetite to study more on the subject. Highly recommended!!

“The thing to take away is that brief but daily routines are capable of accumulating a large amount of whatever the work product might be.” (Wilson, Ploductivity) A week after finishing this book and I’m already plodding. My boss tasked me with getting 3 repair estimates for my company van by next week. The old me would have sprinted and tried to gather up all the estimates in one afternoon (which truly would not have worked). Instead, I planned ahead and plodded over the span of a few days, obtaining one estimate here and another there. And what do you know I’m already finished! Days before my deadline. Thanks, Doug.

I found myself saying "amen" out loud many times as I read this! I especially appreciated how the author presented technology and media as tools of our modern wealth. I am inspired to use this wealth wisely and take the gospel where the people are.

Great enjoyable book. Just lost my job, per Alistair Begg I’m being schooled in the lessons of God’s providence; Doug Wilson gave hope encouraged & restored. Funny and uplifting. “Every blessing ever received is from a pierced hand”. God considers our frame. I️ feel so blessed by His Sovereignty. Excited to see what’s next as I️ plod & manage my servants!

This book was a great reminder that the Lord is Lord over everything including our work. Doug lays a foundation that illustrates how wealthy we are today because of all of the tools that we take for granted. He also sets a great example of how to use every minute of every day to some productive use – which includes rest, worship, and work.

This was a joy to read. Profound and accessible and funny. A great book on how to view work/technology/productivity through the lens of the gospel.

I loved the short chapters, foundational background, and perspective on progress. Thinking about technology as a form of wealth is helpful in stewarding it, versus loving or fearing it. The dry humor and references to other literary works make it a fun, as well as fruitful read.

Definitely a great primer on the nature of work in the light of Scriptural truths. I am not a Calvinist, however, I enjoyed his ideas.

As most people who have a million reasons why they can’t accomplish more things personally or professionally, I’m guilty. This book is a great encouragement on how to honor God with our labors by getting a little, focused, work done each day. Oh how powerful are a few intentional minutes each day!

This was a quick read with practical tips that can be implemented immediately. His description of technology as wealth, therefore being able to be assessed and applied biblically, is genius! If you struggle with desiring to take on tasks but feel like your days are filled with too many other things for you to attempt the task, you should definitely read this!

I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written, inspiring, God- glorifying and hilariously funny book. More writers should be this witty for the glory of Jesus. Thank you, Mr. Wilson.

I have been an online student of Doug Wilson for many years so I say this with much bias. This was an excellent book that sort of serves as a primer and foundation for being a productive believer.

Wilson does a great job outlining the theology of work before applying Biblical wisdom to work our work. If you’re only looking for a bullet point of to do’s you will be disappointed. Instead, Wilson engages your mind and exalts Christ in order to get you to start thinking Christianly about your work and time management.

Practical guide for a Christian view of technology, wealth, and productivity. Enjoyed thinking through technophile vs. technophobe discussions and the “Servants in your pocket.”

Doug is witty, smart, and creative. Thank you brother for your work here. This is a great read for any Christian.

Douglas Wilson once again delivers on an instructional book that teaches Christians to get to work. Productivity is great motivation to get things done and also to understand being fruitful. Read ploductivity by plodding away at it.

Practical and Scriptural and usable. This book is easy to read and practical. It helps us know that plodding equals producing.

Liked because it was very simple in its writing and also very practical in its wisdom. I would recommend it for anyone looking to gain a biblical view of the current culture we live in and how to appreciate it.

He gives a helpful view of work and stuff. Stuff isn’t inherently wrong and we can accomplish a lot when we do at least a little of something we have been wanting to do each day.

Simple wisdom that's is practical and solidly biblical. Makes me want to get to work and praise God for his goodness at the same time!

Profound and simply grounded in the lord. This book achieves what others fail to accomplish, that is, ground our work in ultimate truth.

Great philosophy of work !