Tag Archives: wisdom

November 22
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“Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” (James 3:13, NIV)

Deeds done in humility are particularly fragrant because the person performing the deed is not doing it to draw attention to herself. Wisely, she sees a higher purpose and a bigger plan in play.

The greatest deeds, by God’s estimation, are performed in obscurity; the left hand unaware of what the right hand has done. The greatest deeds provide help to the helpless; hope to the hopeless; and empower the disenfranchised.

Everyone — regardless of title or status — can live a life of humble service to others and to God. Make this your ambition.  – Luther

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November 13
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“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20, NIV)

There is not a more succinct statement of what the disciple of Jesus should aspire than what we read in today’s scripture.

Whomever first uttered the bromide: “The reason God gave us two ears and one mouth is because we should listen twice as much as we talk,” was on to something.  We all should major in listening and minor in speaking!

When you “listen” with every sense the Lord has given you, you will see what others do not see; you will hear what others cannot hear; and when you are compelled to speak, your words will convey the wisdom of God.  – Luther

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October 29
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“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:13, NIV)

“Character” is often defined as “who you are when no one else is looking.” Be certain of this: Someone else is always looking.

The kind of things we would say about someone if that person were listening; the kind of things we would do if we knew that we would see it replayed on television or on “You Tube”; and the places we would go (or not go) if we were alone and unobserved, form the basis accountable behavior.

Trouble, embarrassment, and ruin are certain when individuals, organizations, and governments cease being ever mindful of the fact that each is accountable, regardless of perceived power, prestige, or privacy.

The wise person is mindful that every day of his or her life is “on the books.”  – Luther

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