What if the chaos of your daily life isn't something to escape, but something to reshape?

Pastor Nick Ertz returns to New Culture Church with a practical challenge: craft a rule of life before life crafts one for you. Drawing from John 15, Nick explores how Jesus invites us to "remain" in him—not as a quick visit, but as a way of dwelling. The word "rule" isn't about rigid restrictions. It's about giving your life a trellis to grow toward the light instead of sprawling wild on the ground.

Nick walks through seven life categories—personal/spiritual, relationships, physical health, emotional/mental wellbeing, work, service, and rest—asking probing questions that help you identify where you're thriving and where you're just surviving. He gets vulnerably honest about his own inner critic (yes, even over a beloved Stanley mug) and reminds us that mental health isn't an emergency plan—it's a way of life.

This isn't about adding more to your already-full plate. It's about aligning what's already there with the life Jesus designed specifically for you.

Your next step? Spend 30 minutes this week sketching out your own rule of life. Start small. Be specific. Write it down. And give yourself grace along the way.

Rule of Life Worksheet: https://newculturechurch.com/resources

Bible References:

• John 15:4-8
• 1 Corinthians 6:19
• Matthew 6:21
• Luke 10 (Parable of the Good Samaritan)
• Psalm 139