I found this last year and have just recently rediscovered it. I find it to be quite humourous because it is often so completely accurate! This is from the book "Introvert Power". Some of them are so true, it's really funny.
The Introvert Power "Extroverts at their Most Annoying" Top 10 List:
10. When everything has to be a PARTY!!
9. When E will not accept that you really want to LEAVE the party.
8. When E talks too much, and says too little.
7. When "E The Intruder" enters your space, uninvited, and handles your stuff.
6. When you go out together and E talks to the stranger sitting beside you.
5. When an E you don't know asks, "Are you okay?" just because you're quiet.
4. When E calls to respond to the e-mail you sent because you didn't want to talk.
3. When E brings someone along to your "one on one" -- as a surprise.
2. When E takes cell phone calls during your time alone.
1. When E assumes every silence is an invitation to TALK.
1. When E talks at length without a single pause.
1. When the above behavior requires you to interrupt in order to speak.
1. When you finally get to speak, and your words remind E of something else to share.
1. When E is oblivious to all attempts to end the conversation, including "goodbye" and walking away.
1. When E pressures you to be enthusiastic like them.
I know people who do some of these things! Of course there is no Introvert list, because introverts are perfect.
Now I have to go and be by myself. All of this social interaction has been quite exhausting.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Let it out
I play the drums. I'm not the best in the world, but I enjoy it and usually do a good enough job. Normally, when I play at church, I am located in the back corner behind some clear drum screens, to keep the sound more controllable. These last two weeks I have played in the centre of the stage with no screens! Now this is every drummers ideal position, right in the action, close to the other band members, really feeling the music. I just love it, and it sounds better to most people. Whether the drums stay there or not is not up to me, it's up to the leadership team. And i will be completely happy with whatever decision they make! Of course I have a preference, but the Big Picture should always take priority over an individual's preferences, so I hold on lightly to them. If everyone got what they wanted then life would be a shambles! So if God entrusts certain individuals with leadership, then we should support them 100%. I love my leaders, they are awesome!
So the whole drum screen / positioning thing made me think. Today, I have received, texts, email and facebook messages, and about a dozen people telling me how well i played today. Firstly, thanks, as long as you are worshipping God and not the musicians, I will continue to play like I do, but if you are just enjoying the show, I don't want to play any more! Go watch U2 or something. I don't play for attention, I play to give God attention. But anyway. To all these people complimenting me: I am just playing exactly like I have done for years! The only difference is that now you can see and hear me!
When we take down our walls in life, the same principle applies! We are all awesome people inside, but we hide in the corner with walls up and people never get to see how awesome we are! As soon as my walls were removed, scores of people loved my drumming. But i have always drummed like that! The only difference is that I have let my walls down, so people could see the real me!
I wonder what walls you have in life that you hide behind? Humour, hiding in the corner, intellect, talking too much, talking too little, anger, trying to please everyone all the time, being a religious stiff...
You are still you on the inside, like you have always been! but you may be hiding it. Try letting your walls down and see what may happen! Shock horror, people may actually like what they see! And if they don't, who cares! Someone will like you! And besides, what other people think about you is none of your business anyway!
So the whole drum screen / positioning thing made me think. Today, I have received, texts, email and facebook messages, and about a dozen people telling me how well i played today. Firstly, thanks, as long as you are worshipping God and not the musicians, I will continue to play like I do, but if you are just enjoying the show, I don't want to play any more! Go watch U2 or something. I don't play for attention, I play to give God attention. But anyway. To all these people complimenting me: I am just playing exactly like I have done for years! The only difference is that now you can see and hear me!
When we take down our walls in life, the same principle applies! We are all awesome people inside, but we hide in the corner with walls up and people never get to see how awesome we are! As soon as my walls were removed, scores of people loved my drumming. But i have always drummed like that! The only difference is that I have let my walls down, so people could see the real me!
I wonder what walls you have in life that you hide behind? Humour, hiding in the corner, intellect, talking too much, talking too little, anger, trying to please everyone all the time, being a religious stiff...
You are still you on the inside, like you have always been! but you may be hiding it. Try letting your walls down and see what may happen! Shock horror, people may actually like what they see! And if they don't, who cares! Someone will like you! And besides, what other people think about you is none of your business anyway!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Observations on the Life of a Fool - Marcus Ardern
Taken from Marcus Ardern's website - Not my own work
Observations on the Life of a Fool
There are other passages than the book of proverbs that record some telling insights about the life of a fool. For example: silly intellectuals lost in the delusion of self admiration and conceits pronounce themselves to be wise men indeed (Romans 1:22).
Also the atheist fool talks to himself in his own heart affirming a statement of his faith in atheism (Psalm 14:1). He has a vested interest that his sins will not be accounted for , having done away in philosophy with both the judge and judgment day, to leave him free to follow his own course. However if the truth has different facts in store his idea or affirmation will be revealed as the foolishness it truly is.
It seems clear to me, in the Scriptures that there is a certain type of person who may be described as a fool. However, it also true that Jesus told us not to judge each other as fools, or we will be in danger of punishment.
This being said we can look at our own lives and see whether we are being foolish, and we can discern whether the other person is foolish or a fool. Discernment and correct assessment does not necessarily lead to us offering condemnation to the other person. It is just that we recognize who we are dealing with and acting accordingly. One of the great gifts given as an evidence of working by The Holy Spirit is the ability to recognize what spirit we are dealing with (1 Corinthians 12:10).
Also the Scriptures are able to make us “wise unto salvation” that means having the wisdom that points to Salvation in the faith in Jesus Christ, or reveals its true nature (2 Timothy 3:15).
King David says in Psalm 119 verse 24 “Thy testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors.” and in verse 128 “Therefore I esteem all Thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.” For this reason, I think it is good for me to share what I believe the Book of Proverbs teaches concerning foolishness…remembering that Scripture is Gods’ word and is Truth.
The Foolish one and the scoffer and willfully simple one: Are you one of these? Do you have a well earned reputation for high mindedness scoffing and speaking with contempt of others? If you mock and scoff God Himself will scoff at YOU (3:34) and if you live foolishly it will be on display in your life (3:35).
1.
The simpleton loves being shallow and silly. The mocker thinks his scoffing is delightful for himself. Its his way of enjoying himself. Is this you? (1:22)
2.
The foolish one feels prosperous and complacent, but it is his silly self assurance that makes him ignore what will kill him (1:32-33)
3.
The scoffer hates those who offer him advice and correct the errors of his ways. Do you resent those who rebuke you when you deserve it? (9:8) It’s unsafe to rebuke him.
4.
The winking, prating fool will suddenly fall. That one who signals contemptuously with his eyes and lets his mouth run away with him. (10:8-10) see also 10:19
5.
The silly talker has a rod of punishment coming for his own back (10:13)
6.
The foolish person allows himself to become hateful and spreads slander and lies about others (10:18)
7.
When a fool creates mischievous trouble he enjoys it like a sport. It is fun for him (10:23)
8.
An oafish one does not value and highly esteem the feedback that reveals his errors. He grows angry with it (12:1)
9.
The willfully simple person likes the company or wants to follow vain persons or things instead of working (12:11)
10.
The fool is sure he is right (12:15)
11.
When a fool is irritated he lets it be known at once, he does not conceal anything or practice emotional controls (Holy Ghost self control 12:16) he flares up
12.
From within his heart full of foolishness his mouth talks…(12:13
13.
His foolishness is on display in his life (13:16)
14.
He resents his father’s instruction and will not listen (13:1 and 15:5)
15.
If you had walked with wise men you would have been wise but because you walked with the foolish it is destruction you inherit (13:20)
16.
That scoffing one who lacks understanding doesn’t find wisdom if he looks for it, because his scoffing cuts him off from it…(14:6)
17.
A fool loves to joke about the things God calls sin. His humour celebrates things that disgust God. Fools mock at sin. (14:9)
18.
The willfully simple are easily taken in. they are gullible (14:15)
19.
Anger makes you choose silly foolish courses (14:17)
20.
Folly is like a silly crown for a fool (14:24)
21.
The fools mouth is like a tap pouring out with stupidity (15:2)
22.
He does not have the heart to spread good knowledge and does not speak wisdom from the heart (15:7)
23.
His food is foolishness. His mouth feeds on folly (15:14 and 21 he enjoys it.)
24.
His foolishness will bring discipline upon him (16:22)
25.
The foolish one hardly notices when he receives the due results of his errors, the blows that he deserves well (17:10)
26.
Why should the fool waste his money investing in education he chooses to ignore? (17:16)
27.
He rushes into ill considered agreements to go guarantor, making obligations for himself he has not thought carefully through (17:18)
28.
A fool causes his father grief instead of joy (17:21)
29.
The fool is busy day dreaming about far off things instead of considering what is under his nose close at hand (17:24)
30.
If the fool shuts up, he may seem wise (17:28)
31.
The fool loves picking quick quarrels and depicting others as in need of punishment. (18:6)
32.
It is his own mouth that destroys him (18:7)
33.
He is opinionated because he has begun inquiries with his mind already made up with his preconceptions (18:13) this is shameful for him and foolish behaviour.
34.
Delightful life does not suit him, it doesn’t really belong to a person like him (19:10)
35.
God has already provided waiting judgments for the mockers and scoffers. Fitting punishments for the fools (19:29 & 26:3)
36.
Fools love to meddle in other peoples affairs, they love to involve themselves in things that are not at all their business (20:3)
37.
Remove and get rid of the scornful person and peace will reign again (22:10)
38.
A child can remain in foolishness if the parent is not faithful to bring correction (22:15)
39.
No sense instructing the fool because he places no value on your instruction (23:9)
40.
Planning folly in your thoughts is sin and being a scoffer makes you repulsive to other persons (24:9)
41.
There is a nasty heavy presence with the provoked fool (27:3) heavier than a stone. Weightier than sand
42.
If you are wise and contend with the fool he will either try to make a joke of it or grow into a rage losing his temper with you (29:9-11)
43.
Scorners set the town alight but wisdom can quench the angers created (29:8)
I would suggest you often review this list as you inspect your own actions, looking up the scriptures indicated in The Book of Proverbs in your Bible and also look at the list of observations on the wise man.
Thank you for reading this. I believe it will be helpful if you follow it.
© 2009 Marcus Ardern
Observations on the Life of a Fool
There are other passages than the book of proverbs that record some telling insights about the life of a fool. For example: silly intellectuals lost in the delusion of self admiration and conceits pronounce themselves to be wise men indeed (Romans 1:22).
Also the atheist fool talks to himself in his own heart affirming a statement of his faith in atheism (Psalm 14:1). He has a vested interest that his sins will not be accounted for , having done away in philosophy with both the judge and judgment day, to leave him free to follow his own course. However if the truth has different facts in store his idea or affirmation will be revealed as the foolishness it truly is.
It seems clear to me, in the Scriptures that there is a certain type of person who may be described as a fool. However, it also true that Jesus told us not to judge each other as fools, or we will be in danger of punishment.
This being said we can look at our own lives and see whether we are being foolish, and we can discern whether the other person is foolish or a fool. Discernment and correct assessment does not necessarily lead to us offering condemnation to the other person. It is just that we recognize who we are dealing with and acting accordingly. One of the great gifts given as an evidence of working by The Holy Spirit is the ability to recognize what spirit we are dealing with (1 Corinthians 12:10).
Also the Scriptures are able to make us “wise unto salvation” that means having the wisdom that points to Salvation in the faith in Jesus Christ, or reveals its true nature (2 Timothy 3:15).
King David says in Psalm 119 verse 24 “Thy testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors.” and in verse 128 “Therefore I esteem all Thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.” For this reason, I think it is good for me to share what I believe the Book of Proverbs teaches concerning foolishness…remembering that Scripture is Gods’ word and is Truth.
The Foolish one and the scoffer and willfully simple one: Are you one of these? Do you have a well earned reputation for high mindedness scoffing and speaking with contempt of others? If you mock and scoff God Himself will scoff at YOU (3:34) and if you live foolishly it will be on display in your life (3:35).
1.
The simpleton loves being shallow and silly. The mocker thinks his scoffing is delightful for himself. Its his way of enjoying himself. Is this you? (1:22)
2.
The foolish one feels prosperous and complacent, but it is his silly self assurance that makes him ignore what will kill him (1:32-33)
3.
The scoffer hates those who offer him advice and correct the errors of his ways. Do you resent those who rebuke you when you deserve it? (9:8) It’s unsafe to rebuke him.
4.
The winking, prating fool will suddenly fall. That one who signals contemptuously with his eyes and lets his mouth run away with him. (10:8-10) see also 10:19
5.
The silly talker has a rod of punishment coming for his own back (10:13)
6.
The foolish person allows himself to become hateful and spreads slander and lies about others (10:18)
7.
When a fool creates mischievous trouble he enjoys it like a sport. It is fun for him (10:23)
8.
An oafish one does not value and highly esteem the feedback that reveals his errors. He grows angry with it (12:1)
9.
The willfully simple person likes the company or wants to follow vain persons or things instead of working (12:11)
10.
The fool is sure he is right (12:15)
11.
When a fool is irritated he lets it be known at once, he does not conceal anything or practice emotional controls (Holy Ghost self control 12:16) he flares up
12.
From within his heart full of foolishness his mouth talks…(12:13
13.
His foolishness is on display in his life (13:16)
14.
He resents his father’s instruction and will not listen (13:1 and 15:5)
15.
If you had walked with wise men you would have been wise but because you walked with the foolish it is destruction you inherit (13:20)
16.
That scoffing one who lacks understanding doesn’t find wisdom if he looks for it, because his scoffing cuts him off from it…(14:6)
17.
A fool loves to joke about the things God calls sin. His humour celebrates things that disgust God. Fools mock at sin. (14:9)
18.
The willfully simple are easily taken in. they are gullible (14:15)
19.
Anger makes you choose silly foolish courses (14:17)
20.
Folly is like a silly crown for a fool (14:24)
21.
The fools mouth is like a tap pouring out with stupidity (15:2)
22.
He does not have the heart to spread good knowledge and does not speak wisdom from the heart (15:7)
23.
His food is foolishness. His mouth feeds on folly (15:14 and 21 he enjoys it.)
24.
His foolishness will bring discipline upon him (16:22)
25.
The foolish one hardly notices when he receives the due results of his errors, the blows that he deserves well (17:10)
26.
Why should the fool waste his money investing in education he chooses to ignore? (17:16)
27.
He rushes into ill considered agreements to go guarantor, making obligations for himself he has not thought carefully through (17:18)
28.
A fool causes his father grief instead of joy (17:21)
29.
The fool is busy day dreaming about far off things instead of considering what is under his nose close at hand (17:24)
30.
If the fool shuts up, he may seem wise (17:28)
31.
The fool loves picking quick quarrels and depicting others as in need of punishment. (18:6)
32.
It is his own mouth that destroys him (18:7)
33.
He is opinionated because he has begun inquiries with his mind already made up with his preconceptions (18:13) this is shameful for him and foolish behaviour.
34.
Delightful life does not suit him, it doesn’t really belong to a person like him (19:10)
35.
God has already provided waiting judgments for the mockers and scoffers. Fitting punishments for the fools (19:29 & 26:3)
36.
Fools love to meddle in other peoples affairs, they love to involve themselves in things that are not at all their business (20:3)
37.
Remove and get rid of the scornful person and peace will reign again (22:10)
38.
A child can remain in foolishness if the parent is not faithful to bring correction (22:15)
39.
No sense instructing the fool because he places no value on your instruction (23:9)
40.
Planning folly in your thoughts is sin and being a scoffer makes you repulsive to other persons (24:9)
41.
There is a nasty heavy presence with the provoked fool (27:3) heavier than a stone. Weightier than sand
42.
If you are wise and contend with the fool he will either try to make a joke of it or grow into a rage losing his temper with you (29:9-11)
43.
Scorners set the town alight but wisdom can quench the angers created (29:8)
I would suggest you often review this list as you inspect your own actions, looking up the scriptures indicated in The Book of Proverbs in your Bible and also look at the list of observations on the wise man.
Thank you for reading this. I believe it will be helpful if you follow it.
© 2009 Marcus Ardern
Observations on the life of a wise man - Marcus Ardern
Copied from Marcus Ardern's webpage. This is not my own work! But I really love it!
Observations on the life of a wise man
The bible gives us in the book of Proverbs a portrait of the wise man in comparison to the fool. It becomes clear in life as one looks back that there have been times when one has played the fool, lived foolishly and made foolish decisions that released less than salubrious conditions into our lives. Relationships can be lost or damaged. Reputations can be damaged or one became a pariah among former friends…it makes no sense to wreck the happiness of your own future by continuing in foolishness until we actually qualify for the summary label of being The Fool…
No doubt you would not like to be known as a fool. Even worse if the label is accurate. Solomon himself with all his clever insights and Godly wisdom later admitted he had acted foolishly and given in to sin even though he knew better and had warned others away from it. Knowledge is no protection if it remains unapplied…the word must be made flesh. We must embody the nobler path we know and fortunately God gives insights as it is written in Psalm 16 “Thou wilt show me” (the path of life).
So now we look into the book of proverbs to see the characteristics or outward observable signs of a wise man or woman. Instead of quoting a particular translation I have presented what I believe the verse points to in meaning. You may follow the references in a king James Bible or other translation. I suggest you accept nothing you feel remains unproven by the Bible itself.(acts seventeen verse eleven)
One observation I make after years of careful consideration of the church of believers I have seen in many locations around the globe: many leaders and believers excuse and allow themselves attitudes and beliefs about behaviours that run directly contrary to what Holy Scripture advises. Sooner or later the fruit arrives into the life and result is trouble. The Good News is that God has given us a Person as a Saviour: The Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and that He has made available Truth that sets us free. To reject Gods word is to reject salvation, because The Way of Salvation is itself rejected. You cannot experience right results if you are living wrongly and without repentance. Faith and Obedience to The Gospel is the wisest course. Ultimately it confirms itself as enlightened self interest. The testimony of God is true, so I believe that to reject his testimony is to not know what is false such a man or woman lacks insight and ability to discern distinctions so their assessments, judgments and choices become blurred or downright wrong (blindness or short sightedness, see 2 Peter 1:9).
Here is that look into proverbs:
1.
The wise one listens well and learns (1:5)
2.
The wise one becomes discrete and prudent in life matters and choices (2:10-11)
3.
Being wise brings honourable reputation (3:34-35)
4.
Honestly seeking for and cherishing wisdom yields good dividends! You succeed in finding it and along with that its results: righteousness, a rich and enriched life and glory (8:17-21)
5.
Wisdom gives you extra days (9:11)
6.
Wisdom makes you become teachable instead of chattering and garrulous (10:8)
7.
If you possess real wisdom it makes you eager to learn more and preserve the knowledge. (10:14)
8.
If you have grown in understanding you will know how to hold your peace (11:2)
9.
Less prudent people will end up as your subordinates (11:29)
10.
Real wisdom inspires commendations from others (12:8)
11.
Wisdom is indicated when a man is genuinely interested in learning (12:15)
12.
The wise one does not blab everything he knows even though he may have a veritable fountain of wisdom present to fuel his lips (12:23)
13.
A wise son is willing to really hear his father’s corrections (13:1)
14.
Being well instructed brings favour into your life (13:15)
15.
Wise companions bring wisdom into your life, it is learned from company just as foolishness is (13:20)
16.
A wise woman helps her own house grow and flourish richly (14:1)
17.
Wise speech preserves lives (14:3)
18.
It is easier to learn when you have become a person with understanding (14:6)
19.
Ability to scan and discern (comprehend)the likely outcomes of your choices is “your wisdom”.(14:8)
20.
Right proper reverence is natural to a wise person (the reverence for truth that enables you to take note of and avoid dangers) (14:16)
21.
It is cautious prudence that confers glorious knowledge upon you to be admired. (14:18)
22.
Hidden reservoirs of knowledge are within the heart of a truly wise person, even if they are silent about it (14:33)
23.
A wise person considers how to communicate wisdom effectively to the hearer so that it can be received correctly…(15:2)
24.
Openness to receiving an instructing reproof follows on from having learned to be prudent instead of rash or hasty. (15:5)
25.
The wise person does not enjoy stupidity but walks carefully, discretely, wisely.(15:21)
26.
Living by wise choices will give you very good things. (16:20)
27.
If you are wise, others will report your prudence and good judgment. (16:21)
28.
Wisdom within is revealed by the words of your lips. (16:23)
29.
If you have real wisdom you will deal in a focused way with matters that need immediate attention, under your nose (17:24)
30.
If you are wise, you won’t say much. If you really know, you will be controlled and cool (17:27)
31.
It is wisdom not to allow angers to suddenly rise up nor to draw attentions to wrongs suffered. It is the honourable way to proceed (19:11)
32.
The wise man does not give way to a life of drunkenness which clouds his mind (20:1)
33.
Real wisdom brings treasurable things into your life and teaches you how to conserve them so that the treasure remains in the house instead of being foolishly wasted in premature consumption (21:20)
34.
Wisdom teaches you strategies for dealing with tricky and self confident people who think themselves immune within their protections , like a fortressed city (21:22)
35.
Behaving wisely makes you the offspring that brings joy to your parents (23:24-25)
36.
The wise person builds upon, adds to, his strengths multiplies his powers by becoming strengthened with good advice (24:5)
37.
It is very rewarding to live a wise life and as a result your hopes will not turn out to be futile dreaming (24:14)
38.
The wise one does not act in a rash, ill considered way, but looks for or recognizes possible danger ahead then avoids bad consequences by acting wisely (27:12. also 1:17)
39.
A good source of understanding is to keep hungry for the things of God and for God Himself (28:5)
40.
The wise person stills his anger, restrains himself, until the appropriate time (29:11)
As Malcolm Muggeridge has said “a thing is often best understood by examining its opposites.”
So perhaps you may like to also look at my article on the observations of the fool, also from proverbs. Examine you own behaviours for your own sakes and for the sakes of those around you, and for The Lords sake.
© 2009 Marcus Ardern
Observations on the life of a wise man
The bible gives us in the book of Proverbs a portrait of the wise man in comparison to the fool. It becomes clear in life as one looks back that there have been times when one has played the fool, lived foolishly and made foolish decisions that released less than salubrious conditions into our lives. Relationships can be lost or damaged. Reputations can be damaged or one became a pariah among former friends…it makes no sense to wreck the happiness of your own future by continuing in foolishness until we actually qualify for the summary label of being The Fool…
No doubt you would not like to be known as a fool. Even worse if the label is accurate. Solomon himself with all his clever insights and Godly wisdom later admitted he had acted foolishly and given in to sin even though he knew better and had warned others away from it. Knowledge is no protection if it remains unapplied…the word must be made flesh. We must embody the nobler path we know and fortunately God gives insights as it is written in Psalm 16 “Thou wilt show me” (the path of life).
So now we look into the book of proverbs to see the characteristics or outward observable signs of a wise man or woman. Instead of quoting a particular translation I have presented what I believe the verse points to in meaning. You may follow the references in a king James Bible or other translation. I suggest you accept nothing you feel remains unproven by the Bible itself.(acts seventeen verse eleven)
One observation I make after years of careful consideration of the church of believers I have seen in many locations around the globe: many leaders and believers excuse and allow themselves attitudes and beliefs about behaviours that run directly contrary to what Holy Scripture advises. Sooner or later the fruit arrives into the life and result is trouble. The Good News is that God has given us a Person as a Saviour: The Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and that He has made available Truth that sets us free. To reject Gods word is to reject salvation, because The Way of Salvation is itself rejected. You cannot experience right results if you are living wrongly and without repentance. Faith and Obedience to The Gospel is the wisest course. Ultimately it confirms itself as enlightened self interest. The testimony of God is true, so I believe that to reject his testimony is to not know what is false such a man or woman lacks insight and ability to discern distinctions so their assessments, judgments and choices become blurred or downright wrong (blindness or short sightedness, see 2 Peter 1:9).
Here is that look into proverbs:
1.
The wise one listens well and learns (1:5)
2.
The wise one becomes discrete and prudent in life matters and choices (2:10-11)
3.
Being wise brings honourable reputation (3:34-35)
4.
Honestly seeking for and cherishing wisdom yields good dividends! You succeed in finding it and along with that its results: righteousness, a rich and enriched life and glory (8:17-21)
5.
Wisdom gives you extra days (9:11)
6.
Wisdom makes you become teachable instead of chattering and garrulous (10:8)
7.
If you possess real wisdom it makes you eager to learn more and preserve the knowledge. (10:14)
8.
If you have grown in understanding you will know how to hold your peace (11:2)
9.
Less prudent people will end up as your subordinates (11:29)
10.
Real wisdom inspires commendations from others (12:8)
11.
Wisdom is indicated when a man is genuinely interested in learning (12:15)
12.
The wise one does not blab everything he knows even though he may have a veritable fountain of wisdom present to fuel his lips (12:23)
13.
A wise son is willing to really hear his father’s corrections (13:1)
14.
Being well instructed brings favour into your life (13:15)
15.
Wise companions bring wisdom into your life, it is learned from company just as foolishness is (13:20)
16.
A wise woman helps her own house grow and flourish richly (14:1)
17.
Wise speech preserves lives (14:3)
18.
It is easier to learn when you have become a person with understanding (14:6)
19.
Ability to scan and discern (comprehend)the likely outcomes of your choices is “your wisdom”.(14:8)
20.
Right proper reverence is natural to a wise person (the reverence for truth that enables you to take note of and avoid dangers) (14:16)
21.
It is cautious prudence that confers glorious knowledge upon you to be admired. (14:18)
22.
Hidden reservoirs of knowledge are within the heart of a truly wise person, even if they are silent about it (14:33)
23.
A wise person considers how to communicate wisdom effectively to the hearer so that it can be received correctly…(15:2)
24.
Openness to receiving an instructing reproof follows on from having learned to be prudent instead of rash or hasty. (15:5)
25.
The wise person does not enjoy stupidity but walks carefully, discretely, wisely.(15:21)
26.
Living by wise choices will give you very good things. (16:20)
27.
If you are wise, others will report your prudence and good judgment. (16:21)
28.
Wisdom within is revealed by the words of your lips. (16:23)
29.
If you have real wisdom you will deal in a focused way with matters that need immediate attention, under your nose (17:24)
30.
If you are wise, you won’t say much. If you really know, you will be controlled and cool (17:27)
31.
It is wisdom not to allow angers to suddenly rise up nor to draw attentions to wrongs suffered. It is the honourable way to proceed (19:11)
32.
The wise man does not give way to a life of drunkenness which clouds his mind (20:1)
33.
Real wisdom brings treasurable things into your life and teaches you how to conserve them so that the treasure remains in the house instead of being foolishly wasted in premature consumption (21:20)
34.
Wisdom teaches you strategies for dealing with tricky and self confident people who think themselves immune within their protections , like a fortressed city (21:22)
35.
Behaving wisely makes you the offspring that brings joy to your parents (23:24-25)
36.
The wise person builds upon, adds to, his strengths multiplies his powers by becoming strengthened with good advice (24:5)
37.
It is very rewarding to live a wise life and as a result your hopes will not turn out to be futile dreaming (24:14)
38.
The wise one does not act in a rash, ill considered way, but looks for or recognizes possible danger ahead then avoids bad consequences by acting wisely (27:12. also 1:17)
39.
A good source of understanding is to keep hungry for the things of God and for God Himself (28:5)
40.
The wise person stills his anger, restrains himself, until the appropriate time (29:11)
As Malcolm Muggeridge has said “a thing is often best understood by examining its opposites.”
So perhaps you may like to also look at my article on the observations of the fool, also from proverbs. Examine you own behaviours for your own sakes and for the sakes of those around you, and for The Lords sake.
© 2009 Marcus Ardern
Monday, September 20, 2010
I Wish I Had A Girl Arm
Monday night. Indoor soccer night. I love playing indoor footy.
But tonight, disaster struck. I turned up to play and there was only five minutes of the game to go! I was extremely late! I had checked my season draw and read the wrong time. I was gutted. So I ran on and played those five minutes, but it just didn't cut it.
Let me fill you in on the source of my confusion.
That inconsiderate earthquake had caused the building that I play in to be closed for a week. This caused the draw to be mixed up. A new draw was produced and distributed. The original draw was now wrong and the new draw was right. I had the wrong draw. According to MY draw, I turned up on time. According to the (new) REAL draw. I was late.
Life's like this. If we do things when we want to, according to OUR plan, to OUR timetable, then we will miss out in the game of life. We may turn up late. Or too early. And wonder why life is unfair and nothing good ever happens. We miss out on the action because, instead of going with the real timetable, we blindly go ahead in our self-deceived state, hoping things will work the way we want.
The only way to get in on the action is to accept that there is a bigger, REAL timetable that is often different from OUR timetable. In other words, God's timing is different from our timing. The world doesn't revolve around us and follow our desires. We are not God!
The choice is simple, although never easy to make. Relax, be patient and do things in God's timing, OR make God do things in YOUR timing...
There's only ever gonna be one person who wins that arm wrestle! And the funny thing is that if you let yourself lose, you are actually winning, because God is on your side, working it all out for you anyway! Just in an infinitely better way...
If I had turned up at the REAL time, I may have scored several goals and had an amazing game, but coz I turned up at MY time, I only saw a glimpse of what might have been. I don't want my life to be like that:)
But tonight, disaster struck. I turned up to play and there was only five minutes of the game to go! I was extremely late! I had checked my season draw and read the wrong time. I was gutted. So I ran on and played those five minutes, but it just didn't cut it.
Let me fill you in on the source of my confusion.
That inconsiderate earthquake had caused the building that I play in to be closed for a week. This caused the draw to be mixed up. A new draw was produced and distributed. The original draw was now wrong and the new draw was right. I had the wrong draw. According to MY draw, I turned up on time. According to the (new) REAL draw. I was late.
Life's like this. If we do things when we want to, according to OUR plan, to OUR timetable, then we will miss out in the game of life. We may turn up late. Or too early. And wonder why life is unfair and nothing good ever happens. We miss out on the action because, instead of going with the real timetable, we blindly go ahead in our self-deceived state, hoping things will work the way we want.
The only way to get in on the action is to accept that there is a bigger, REAL timetable that is often different from OUR timetable. In other words, God's timing is different from our timing. The world doesn't revolve around us and follow our desires. We are not God!
The choice is simple, although never easy to make. Relax, be patient and do things in God's timing, OR make God do things in YOUR timing...
There's only ever gonna be one person who wins that arm wrestle! And the funny thing is that if you let yourself lose, you are actually winning, because God is on your side, working it all out for you anyway! Just in an infinitely better way...
If I had turned up at the REAL time, I may have scored several goals and had an amazing game, but coz I turned up at MY time, I only saw a glimpse of what might have been. I don't want my life to be like that:)
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Grace Makes Your World A Better Place
I love watching rugby league, especially the NRL playoffs. Sadly the Warriors are no longer with us. R.I.P.
In the game last night, the Wests Tigers defeated the Canberra Raiders 26-24. The Raiders missed an easy kick on full time which would have tied the game. Exciting stuff!
During the game, some Raiders supporters were holding a sign which said "In Croker We Trust".
Croker was their kicker. Who missed the important kick. In hindsight, it seems a bit unwise to have put your trust in someone who ultimately let you down doesn't it!
Now, i'm not taking their level of trust too seriously, it was a sign at a sports ground! but it does highlight a couple of important questions.
Firstly, who do you trust your life to? God? Your family? Friends? Tv? Money?... Think about that...
Secondly, do you trust people in your life, and if so, how much? "Everyone is trustworthy somewhere in their lives, but nobody is trustworthy everywhere in their lives". I.e There is good in everyone, yet no one is perfect. For example, Croker can be trusted to play a great game of league, but he can't be trusted to make 100% of his kicks for his entire career! We all make the mistake of judging people as either "good" or "bad". I like them or I don't. But in fact, that is a very unhealthy way to conduct our relationships. Only God is completely trustworthy, and only the devil is completely untrustworthy. Everyone else is somewhere in between!
So when someone lets you down, just relax! Cut them some slack, (also, you may have let them down before and not realised). And if someone you know seems to be just awesome, they will probably let you down one day in the future, so don't put them on a pedestal and worship them!
Our human tendency is to swing between the extremes, but wisdom is reasonable, easily reasoned with, and knows when a healthy balance is needed.
We shouldn't trust everyone completely. Conversely, we shouldn't shut down and trust no one. Trust is a risk, and you choose how much you are willing to risk, how much trust have they earned? We will all get hurt, that is life, but what you do when that happens will shape your life. Often, the best thing to do is to talk to the person who has hurt you, and tell them what they need to do to earn your trust back. If they get an attitude and want a fight etc, then you know you can't trust them yet! But if they apologise and sincerely want your trust in them to be restored, then your relationship can be healed.
No one is perfect, and love covers a multitude of sins. Trust still needs to be earned though. That is simple wisdom 101.
We are saved by grace and our relationships are saved by showing eachother grace.
Ooh I like that! Seems like a good place to end:)
In the game last night, the Wests Tigers defeated the Canberra Raiders 26-24. The Raiders missed an easy kick on full time which would have tied the game. Exciting stuff!
During the game, some Raiders supporters were holding a sign which said "In Croker We Trust".
Croker was their kicker. Who missed the important kick. In hindsight, it seems a bit unwise to have put your trust in someone who ultimately let you down doesn't it!
Now, i'm not taking their level of trust too seriously, it was a sign at a sports ground! but it does highlight a couple of important questions.
Firstly, who do you trust your life to? God? Your family? Friends? Tv? Money?... Think about that...
Secondly, do you trust people in your life, and if so, how much? "Everyone is trustworthy somewhere in their lives, but nobody is trustworthy everywhere in their lives". I.e There is good in everyone, yet no one is perfect. For example, Croker can be trusted to play a great game of league, but he can't be trusted to make 100% of his kicks for his entire career! We all make the mistake of judging people as either "good" or "bad". I like them or I don't. But in fact, that is a very unhealthy way to conduct our relationships. Only God is completely trustworthy, and only the devil is completely untrustworthy. Everyone else is somewhere in between!
So when someone lets you down, just relax! Cut them some slack, (also, you may have let them down before and not realised). And if someone you know seems to be just awesome, they will probably let you down one day in the future, so don't put them on a pedestal and worship them!
Our human tendency is to swing between the extremes, but wisdom is reasonable, easily reasoned with, and knows when a healthy balance is needed.
We shouldn't trust everyone completely. Conversely, we shouldn't shut down and trust no one. Trust is a risk, and you choose how much you are willing to risk, how much trust have they earned? We will all get hurt, that is life, but what you do when that happens will shape your life. Often, the best thing to do is to talk to the person who has hurt you, and tell them what they need to do to earn your trust back. If they get an attitude and want a fight etc, then you know you can't trust them yet! But if they apologise and sincerely want your trust in them to be restored, then your relationship can be healed.
No one is perfect, and love covers a multitude of sins. Trust still needs to be earned though. That is simple wisdom 101.
We are saved by grace and our relationships are saved by showing eachother grace.
Ooh I like that! Seems like a good place to end:)
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Paved With Good Intentions
You may know that my day job is as a landscaper. I've been doing it for about four years, and am now a "qualified" tradesman. I've still got a lot to learn though! At the moment, I am doing some paving. Should take about three weeks, unless I do some long days to finish it quicker. Might do that!
For the uninitiated, when paving, you mix up mortar (sand, cement and water) and then put the pavers on top of that, making sure that they are flat, or sloping to allow water to drain off, without any edges sticking up to trip on.
Bored yet?!
SO... anyway... It's important to get the consistency of the mortar right. Too dry and it will be impossible to use. Too wet and it won't support the weight of the paver, it will just be sloppy. But the right balance is very rewarding and makes the job much easier and enjoyable.
Too much water also makes the mortar weaker. I don't know why. And I don't NEED to know why! All I need to know is not to put too much water in the mix. Maybe one day I will read some boring article... (other than this one) and it will tell me the chemistry etc, but for now, all I need to know is not to put too much water in.
Life is a bit like that. God is a bit like that. We all know what we should do, what right and wrong is etc... so let's just do it. If I didn't start paving until I knew every single detail about it, then I would be a very ineffective employee, giving my company /boss a bad reputation. I would be dead weight, worse than that, I would be a complete nuisance!
I know enough to do a great paving job, and then everyone is happy! I know enough to do what I get paid to do. So I just do it.
In life we all know enough to just get on and do it, and to be really effective at it. The problem comes when we want to know everything before we do anything. We should just use what we know already and get on with it. More knowledge will come as life goes on. Don't hide behind your intellect, waiting until you get every single answer to every single question that you have. You'll be long dead before you ever understand a fraction of what you want to know!
For the uninitiated, when paving, you mix up mortar (sand, cement and water) and then put the pavers on top of that, making sure that they are flat, or sloping to allow water to drain off, without any edges sticking up to trip on.
Bored yet?!
SO... anyway... It's important to get the consistency of the mortar right. Too dry and it will be impossible to use. Too wet and it won't support the weight of the paver, it will just be sloppy. But the right balance is very rewarding and makes the job much easier and enjoyable.
Too much water also makes the mortar weaker. I don't know why. And I don't NEED to know why! All I need to know is not to put too much water in the mix. Maybe one day I will read some boring article... (other than this one) and it will tell me the chemistry etc, but for now, all I need to know is not to put too much water in.
Life is a bit like that. God is a bit like that. We all know what we should do, what right and wrong is etc... so let's just do it. If I didn't start paving until I knew every single detail about it, then I would be a very ineffective employee, giving my company /boss a bad reputation. I would be dead weight, worse than that, I would be a complete nuisance!
I know enough to do a great paving job, and then everyone is happy! I know enough to do what I get paid to do. So I just do it.
In life we all know enough to just get on and do it, and to be really effective at it. The problem comes when we want to know everything before we do anything. We should just use what we know already and get on with it. More knowledge will come as life goes on. Don't hide behind your intellect, waiting until you get every single answer to every single question that you have. You'll be long dead before you ever understand a fraction of what you want to know!
Monday, September 13, 2010
Nice Blocks
Living through a major earthquake hasn't been the most enjoyable experience that i've been through. And I have got off relatively lightly when compared to those who have lost their homes and jobs etc. Thankfully, no one was killed in the earthquake!
While there has been all sorts of damage throughout our city, and wider region, a substantial amount of the damage has occurred to older brick buildings. Which made me think. Just like these buildings, our lives are made up of many "bricks". In life we build foundations and then slowly constuct our lives, piece by piece, brick by brick.
The problem with these buildings was that the mortar and reinforcing etc that was holding the bricks together gave way. It was not necessarily the bricks that were the problem. The problem was the stuff that was supposed to hold all of these parts together.
You can have all shapes, sizes, colours of bricks, and they can all be added together to build all different types of amazing buildings and structures, but none of these buildings will stand the test of time, or the earthquakes of life, if there is nothing holding them together.
We are no different. We each have different personalities, strengths, weaknesses, preferences, experiences, jobs, bodies, mindsets... that uniquely combine to form us as individuals. Just remember, you are unique, just like everyone else!
Do you trust the "mortar" that you have decided to use?
I see our beliefs, our worldview, God, gods or our own idols as that mortar. You may be relying on your own knowledge, or maybe some tarot cards, or maybe the government, or maybe "the universe". I personally dont trust the universe. When was the last time continuously changing gas, vacuum, rock, fire and various elements helped you out? It just doesn't make any logical sense... Oh dear... so sad...
It is my belief that the only 100% safe mortar of life is a guy called Jesus. If you put all of your trust in him to hold your life together and help you build an amazing life, then you will be on the right track! The Great Architect always uses the best materials, it would be foolish to create our own mortar when the best possible product is available. And it's FREE!!!
While there has been all sorts of damage throughout our city, and wider region, a substantial amount of the damage has occurred to older brick buildings. Which made me think. Just like these buildings, our lives are made up of many "bricks". In life we build foundations and then slowly constuct our lives, piece by piece, brick by brick.
The problem with these buildings was that the mortar and reinforcing etc that was holding the bricks together gave way. It was not necessarily the bricks that were the problem. The problem was the stuff that was supposed to hold all of these parts together.
You can have all shapes, sizes, colours of bricks, and they can all be added together to build all different types of amazing buildings and structures, but none of these buildings will stand the test of time, or the earthquakes of life, if there is nothing holding them together.
We are no different. We each have different personalities, strengths, weaknesses, preferences, experiences, jobs, bodies, mindsets... that uniquely combine to form us as individuals. Just remember, you are unique, just like everyone else!
Do you trust the "mortar" that you have decided to use?
I see our beliefs, our worldview, God, gods or our own idols as that mortar. You may be relying on your own knowledge, or maybe some tarot cards, or maybe the government, or maybe "the universe". I personally dont trust the universe. When was the last time continuously changing gas, vacuum, rock, fire and various elements helped you out? It just doesn't make any logical sense... Oh dear... so sad...
It is my belief that the only 100% safe mortar of life is a guy called Jesus. If you put all of your trust in him to hold your life together and help you build an amazing life, then you will be on the right track! The Great Architect always uses the best materials, it would be foolish to create our own mortar when the best possible product is available. And it's FREE!!!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Sticky Camel Situation
I was picking up sticks at work yesterday. Not the game. Tree prunings. I was thinking about sticks, and in particular, how many sticks could you put on a camel's back. You have probably heard the old saying "It is the final stick that breaks the camel’s back". There was nothing special about that particular stick, it was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. In fact, it was the cumulative effect of all the other ones added together that did the damage. The camel may have been collecting sticks on it's back for a while (mental picture of camel picking up sticks), and finally it's resolve comes to an end.
Sometimes in life there will be a person or event etc that causes us to get angry etc and we can easily blame that person but in reality it was our unwise decisions leading up to that event that really did the damage.
Maybe your husband or wife or sibling or best friend has upset you or made you angry, so you blame them, but in reality, the last few nights you have stayed up too late, or maybe you have been eating poorly and not exercising regularly and that has made you less able to deal with stress. My advice would be to look at your life instead and see if you have been making unwise lifestyle decisions etc instead of just blaming the person or event that has triggered your emotional event.
Maybe you have unhealthy thought patterns that cause you to "pick up sticks" when you see them lying around. You don't actually have to pick up these sticks. You aren't the boss of the world!. You can let someone else, God, carry those burdens. It makes life vastly more enjoyable if you can leave the sticks to God. If you do pick one up, because let's face it, we all naturally want to, just remember to pass it on as quick as you can, otherwise you will accumulate stuff in your life that you just don't need to have. Stress in our lives often occurs because we try to carry too much.
Lots of things happen in life that are unfair, unjust, just plain wrong! We cannot, and should not, try to right every one. Every time we take up a cause, no matter how right you are, stress is added to our lives. A camel cannot fight on every single hill, it must choose it's battles, it must not pick up a stick every time it sees one. God is our Vindicator, and all we have to do is tell him what we have seen and then TRUST HIM to deal with it. Stop trying to wrestle it back of Him. Just leave it!
Jesus was completely right in everything he did, and he still remained silent before his accusers. Because he knew that his Father would take care of it. We should be the same. Just chill out, stop defending yourself and move on.
So next time you are feeling tired or annoyed or whatever, don't blame that person or situation that seems to have caused it. They were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. It may have been all of the other things you have been trying to carry that have caused the real problems. Jesus is waiting to carry your load if you want to GIVE IT to him, he won't steal it! The only responsiblity you have in this situation is to choose to GIVE it to Him. It's better to give than receive;)
Sometimes in life there will be a person or event etc that causes us to get angry etc and we can easily blame that person but in reality it was our unwise decisions leading up to that event that really did the damage.
Maybe your husband or wife or sibling or best friend has upset you or made you angry, so you blame them, but in reality, the last few nights you have stayed up too late, or maybe you have been eating poorly and not exercising regularly and that has made you less able to deal with stress. My advice would be to look at your life instead and see if you have been making unwise lifestyle decisions etc instead of just blaming the person or event that has triggered your emotional event.
Maybe you have unhealthy thought patterns that cause you to "pick up sticks" when you see them lying around. You don't actually have to pick up these sticks. You aren't the boss of the world!. You can let someone else, God, carry those burdens. It makes life vastly more enjoyable if you can leave the sticks to God. If you do pick one up, because let's face it, we all naturally want to, just remember to pass it on as quick as you can, otherwise you will accumulate stuff in your life that you just don't need to have. Stress in our lives often occurs because we try to carry too much.
Lots of things happen in life that are unfair, unjust, just plain wrong! We cannot, and should not, try to right every one. Every time we take up a cause, no matter how right you are, stress is added to our lives. A camel cannot fight on every single hill, it must choose it's battles, it must not pick up a stick every time it sees one. God is our Vindicator, and all we have to do is tell him what we have seen and then TRUST HIM to deal with it. Stop trying to wrestle it back of Him. Just leave it!
Jesus was completely right in everything he did, and he still remained silent before his accusers. Because he knew that his Father would take care of it. We should be the same. Just chill out, stop defending yourself and move on.
So next time you are feeling tired or annoyed or whatever, don't blame that person or situation that seems to have caused it. They were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. It may have been all of the other things you have been trying to carry that have caused the real problems. Jesus is waiting to carry your load if you want to GIVE IT to him, he won't steal it! The only responsiblity you have in this situation is to choose to GIVE it to Him. It's better to give than receive;)
Monday, August 30, 2010
Welcome Back
You probably didn't notice, but I have had a long hiatus from writing blogs. Primarily this is because I have had not had internet access since January of this year. Several generous friends have allowed me to use their laptops for short periods of time to clear my emails etc. To those bastions of generosity, I would like to formally give my thanks.
So this got me thinking.
The other day I wrote my first blog since the Great Hibernation. The response to this has been pleasing to me. A handful of people have "liked" it or even said it was "cool" and "interesting". I have even acquired another follower! 15 now! That has been very encouraging for me. I felt encouraged. I felt good about myself. Hooray.
This made me think about the story of the prodigal son. He was there, then he wasn't, then he came back. I think the most important part of the story is not the time before he left, nor the time he was away. I think the most important part of the story for me is when he came back. More specifically, how his father responded to him from the moment he first saw him.
The glimpse of encouragement we receive when someone likes us or likes our work etc... Is just a fraction of the emotion we would experience if we fully understood how much God loves us, and what his response is towards us when we "return" to him. Maybe we didn't really pray much for a few months. Maybe church has been a routine for a while. Maybe our bible has dust on it. The songs we sing aren't really being sung to anyone in particular. I'm sure you know what I mean. But the "cool" thing is, God doesn't hate us because we go off and do our own thing from time to time, He is there, waiting for you to turn around and go back to Him!
We are the ones who remember wrongs. We are the ones who don't forgive. We are the ones who judge others wrongly. We are the ones who hide. God does none of these. He forgets everything wrong that we have ever done, and he forgives us as soon as we ask. He always judges fairly and will never hide himself from us. If we would only look for him!
So, maybe tonight it's time to go back? Tell him where you've been and that you're sorry for ignoring him. Your body may have been doing all the right, nice looking religious things, but if your heart wasn't there, it was just empty actions. He will forgive you and forget your sins as quickly as you can click your fingers.
I hope you can forgive my sin of not having the internet. In this day and age this is something that deserves to be punished harshly, but I hope you will forgive. Unforgiveness is like swallowing poison and expecting the other person to die. You don't want to do that do you? ;)
So this got me thinking.
The other day I wrote my first blog since the Great Hibernation. The response to this has been pleasing to me. A handful of people have "liked" it or even said it was "cool" and "interesting". I have even acquired another follower! 15 now! That has been very encouraging for me. I felt encouraged. I felt good about myself. Hooray.
This made me think about the story of the prodigal son. He was there, then he wasn't, then he came back. I think the most important part of the story is not the time before he left, nor the time he was away. I think the most important part of the story for me is when he came back. More specifically, how his father responded to him from the moment he first saw him.
The glimpse of encouragement we receive when someone likes us or likes our work etc... Is just a fraction of the emotion we would experience if we fully understood how much God loves us, and what his response is towards us when we "return" to him. Maybe we didn't really pray much for a few months. Maybe church has been a routine for a while. Maybe our bible has dust on it. The songs we sing aren't really being sung to anyone in particular. I'm sure you know what I mean. But the "cool" thing is, God doesn't hate us because we go off and do our own thing from time to time, He is there, waiting for you to turn around and go back to Him!
We are the ones who remember wrongs. We are the ones who don't forgive. We are the ones who judge others wrongly. We are the ones who hide. God does none of these. He forgets everything wrong that we have ever done, and he forgives us as soon as we ask. He always judges fairly and will never hide himself from us. If we would only look for him!
So, maybe tonight it's time to go back? Tell him where you've been and that you're sorry for ignoring him. Your body may have been doing all the right, nice looking religious things, but if your heart wasn't there, it was just empty actions. He will forgive you and forget your sins as quickly as you can click your fingers.
I hope you can forgive my sin of not having the internet. In this day and age this is something that deserves to be punished harshly, but I hope you will forgive. Unforgiveness is like swallowing poison and expecting the other person to die. You don't want to do that do you? ;)
Saturday, August 28, 2010
An Inconvenient Truth
I've been thinking about our culture of convenience lately. Our society tells us that if life is easier, we will be happier. And we believe this. All we need is the latest phone, the quickest checkout aisle, the fastest car, the microwave meal... It's all around us. While there is nothing wrong with these things in themselves, there is a problem when we rely on these things to make us happy. I have noticed a similarity with lust. Both convenience and lust say to us:
"I need a quicker, more powerful, bigger, cooler gadget, meal, experience, etc that does everything I want it to do. When I get what I want I will be satisfied."
It is the same principle as tying a carrot to a stick and dangling it in front of a donkey so that it will keep walking towards it. It never gets what it wants, but it keeps on going in the vain hope that it's desire will be met.
This is a trap.
Don't be a dumbass.
The bible tells us that those who want to keep their life, will ultimately lose it, but those who give their life up will ultimately receive life in it's fullest. That doesn't seem to make sense, but it's true!
It's my thesis that when we decide to inconvenience ourselves for someone else, our lives will be far better than they could ever have been if we had stayed on the convenience path. It's inconvenient, but it's true!
Convenience WILL NOT make your life better. It WILL NOT make YOU better! It might make it EASIER, but that's a different thing. I believe it is a lie. And when we believe lies, we are basically inviting the enemy into our lives to do what he wants. We are supposed to believe the truth. Convenience may make life easier in the short-term, and in our busy culture, many of us only think that far. But if you want your life to count, and you want the world to be a better place, you choosing to inconvenience yourself for others will go a long way.
People who get everything they want when they want become spoilt, overweight, lazy, selfish, complaining....etc
People who decide to put other's needs ahead of their own, will become, humble, healthy, motivated, selfless, thankful, loving...etc
I dare you to try. Use a little bit of faith and see what happens:)
It's inconvenient, but it's true!
"I need a quicker, more powerful, bigger, cooler gadget, meal, experience, etc that does everything I want it to do. When I get what I want I will be satisfied."
It is the same principle as tying a carrot to a stick and dangling it in front of a donkey so that it will keep walking towards it. It never gets what it wants, but it keeps on going in the vain hope that it's desire will be met.
This is a trap.
Don't be a dumbass.
The bible tells us that those who want to keep their life, will ultimately lose it, but those who give their life up will ultimately receive life in it's fullest. That doesn't seem to make sense, but it's true!
It's my thesis that when we decide to inconvenience ourselves for someone else, our lives will be far better than they could ever have been if we had stayed on the convenience path. It's inconvenient, but it's true!
Convenience WILL NOT make your life better. It WILL NOT make YOU better! It might make it EASIER, but that's a different thing. I believe it is a lie. And when we believe lies, we are basically inviting the enemy into our lives to do what he wants. We are supposed to believe the truth. Convenience may make life easier in the short-term, and in our busy culture, many of us only think that far. But if you want your life to count, and you want the world to be a better place, you choosing to inconvenience yourself for others will go a long way.
People who get everything they want when they want become spoilt, overweight, lazy, selfish, complaining....etc
People who decide to put other's needs ahead of their own, will become, humble, healthy, motivated, selfless, thankful, loving...etc
I dare you to try. Use a little bit of faith and see what happens:)
It's inconvenient, but it's true!
Monday, January 25, 2010
Pogo
Sometimes what seems like a step backwards is actually a step forward. Like moving back in with the parents to save for a house. So... hmmm... I wonder if the opposite is true. If what seems like a step forwards is actually a step backwards. I wonder if any step whatsoever is actually a step forwards, no matter what it seems like. In other words, it doesn't actually matter if you feel like you are making a step forwards or backwards, ultimately, they are all steps forwards. So, one step forward, two steps backwards is actually three steps forward, even though it doesn't seem that way. But surely there must be some steps backwards that are actually, in fact, backwards. Even to the most optimistic of people. What makes a backwards step? Our perception of steps doesn't change what they ultimately are. You might feel one thing, but that doesn't mean you are right, because your feelings are not a reliable reading of reality itself. So back to the question. Regardless of how we feel about something, can you go backwards in life, or is every step, ultimately a step forward? You've heard people say, "sometimes you have to go backwards to go forwards". Do they mean, actually go backwards, or do they mean, "feel like you are going backwards when ultimately you are still going forwards".
Have I lost anyone yet?
Well done for getting this far!
I have some other thoughts about this, but I reckon here's a good time to stop and see what you think!
Can you go backwards in life, or is every step, ultimately a step forward?
Also, grammatically speaking, should I write "forward" or "forwards" etc?
Have I lost anyone yet?
Well done for getting this far!
I have some other thoughts about this, but I reckon here's a good time to stop and see what you think!
Can you go backwards in life, or is every step, ultimately a step forward?
Also, grammatically speaking, should I write "forward" or "forwards" etc?
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Laid-back is not Lazy!
Here's some tips on how to be a bit more laid back. I was thinking about this because a lot of people seem to rush around everywhere like headless chickens, with little, or no time for those close to them. Some people always seem to be busy, but never actually DO anything! I was also wanting people to understand that "laid-back" is NOT "lazy"! Laid-back people still do as much as many "busy" people but they give the appearance of being so relaxed that people see them as lazy. I find it a bit frustrating because I really dislike being misunderstood.
1. Do one thing at a time. The world's greatest achievements were made by people who gave the task in front of them their undivided attention. Tackling multiple activities at once might feel efficient, but is it really productive? Is giving each task 30% of your attention for three hours as effective as giving each task 100% of your attention for one hour each? If something doesn't deserve your undivided attention, maybe it's not worth doing at all. Don't just do stuff to be busy!
2. Slow down. What's the rush? If what you're doing is important enough to take up your time,then you might as well enjoy it. Cleaning the house for an hour with your favourite music playing and your bottom shaking is better than cleaning the house in half that time but in a frantic state of mind. Plus, if you're having fun with your chores, maybe other people will be tempted to join. Don't just "get it over with", find a way to make every activity something that you look forward to doing.
3. Stop being a perfectionist. High standards have their place. When performing surgery, for example, or designing a building. But when applied to other areas of your life (your appearance, your home's appearance, your hobbies, your handwriting, whatever) you're practically inviting anxiety into your life. That doesn't mean you shouldn't have any standards at all; it's when you start stressing out about the details that you need to ask yourself: "Will doing this right now make me truly happy? Will it make me a better person? Will it make the world a better place?" Usually, the answer is no. Don't allow perfectionism to become the enemy of your potential.
4.Step aside. When you close your eyes and imagine your role in the world, do you see yourself as Atlas, the mythological Titan, holding the weight of the world on your shoulders? Do you feel like you want to relax, but worry that if you do, everything will fall apart? If so, you need to delegate some responsibility. You might think other people won't do as good a job, but that's the thing: they'll never do it just like you do. So give them responsibility, give them advice, and pass the reins. Don't be surprised if they make mistakes; just be there to support them, and let them fix (and learn from) their mistakes. Not only will this take some weight off of your shoulders, but it can be very fulfilling to watch someone grow and mature as a result of your guidance.
5.Remember that it's not the end of the world. Many people spend their entire lives trying to prevent bad things from happening. But guess what? They happen anyway. And life goes on. That's not to say you shouldn't take any kinds of precautions in life, but if the majority of your thoughts are consumed in contingency planning, you're not enjoying life. You're preventing it. Hmmm
6.Focus on what you have, not what you have to do. Sometimes we trick ourselves into thinking "I have to straighten this up...I have to correct him...I have to stop her..." but truthfully, we don't have to do anything. You can walk away from any task, at any time. Try replacing every "have to" with a "want to" and see if the statement still means the same. In other words, is it something that you'll look back on when you're in your deathbed and be happy you did? Most likely not. So appreciate what you have, while you have it.
Tips: When bad things happen (and they will, no matter what) just smile. Remind yourself that:
Life goes on.
You win some, you lose some.
This too will pass.
You can't please everybody.
We live and learn.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Remember that sometimes bad things lead to the best things.
Before you say no, think "why not?"
Shift your mindset so that you concentrate on what makes you feel happy, not on what makes you feel safe.
Pray about it.
Warnings:
Don't confuse being laid-back with being lazy. People who are laid back get things done, but they do so with a relaxed attitude rather than a frantic attitude. Lazy people just don't get things done.
Personality tests such as Myers-Briggs can help you determine your particular personality. Understanding people will stop you judging them and let you cut them some slack. This goes for yourself too!
1. Do one thing at a time. The world's greatest achievements were made by people who gave the task in front of them their undivided attention. Tackling multiple activities at once might feel efficient, but is it really productive? Is giving each task 30% of your attention for three hours as effective as giving each task 100% of your attention for one hour each? If something doesn't deserve your undivided attention, maybe it's not worth doing at all. Don't just do stuff to be busy!
2. Slow down. What's the rush? If what you're doing is important enough to take up your time,then you might as well enjoy it. Cleaning the house for an hour with your favourite music playing and your bottom shaking is better than cleaning the house in half that time but in a frantic state of mind. Plus, if you're having fun with your chores, maybe other people will be tempted to join. Don't just "get it over with", find a way to make every activity something that you look forward to doing.
3. Stop being a perfectionist. High standards have their place. When performing surgery, for example, or designing a building. But when applied to other areas of your life (your appearance, your home's appearance, your hobbies, your handwriting, whatever) you're practically inviting anxiety into your life. That doesn't mean you shouldn't have any standards at all; it's when you start stressing out about the details that you need to ask yourself: "Will doing this right now make me truly happy? Will it make me a better person? Will it make the world a better place?" Usually, the answer is no. Don't allow perfectionism to become the enemy of your potential.
4.Step aside. When you close your eyes and imagine your role in the world, do you see yourself as Atlas, the mythological Titan, holding the weight of the world on your shoulders? Do you feel like you want to relax, but worry that if you do, everything will fall apart? If so, you need to delegate some responsibility. You might think other people won't do as good a job, but that's the thing: they'll never do it just like you do. So give them responsibility, give them advice, and pass the reins. Don't be surprised if they make mistakes; just be there to support them, and let them fix (and learn from) their mistakes. Not only will this take some weight off of your shoulders, but it can be very fulfilling to watch someone grow and mature as a result of your guidance.
5.Remember that it's not the end of the world. Many people spend their entire lives trying to prevent bad things from happening. But guess what? They happen anyway. And life goes on. That's not to say you shouldn't take any kinds of precautions in life, but if the majority of your thoughts are consumed in contingency planning, you're not enjoying life. You're preventing it. Hmmm
6.Focus on what you have, not what you have to do. Sometimes we trick ourselves into thinking "I have to straighten this up...I have to correct him...I have to stop her..." but truthfully, we don't have to do anything. You can walk away from any task, at any time. Try replacing every "have to" with a "want to" and see if the statement still means the same. In other words, is it something that you'll look back on when you're in your deathbed and be happy you did? Most likely not. So appreciate what you have, while you have it.
Tips: When bad things happen (and they will, no matter what) just smile. Remind yourself that:
Life goes on.
You win some, you lose some.
This too will pass.
You can't please everybody.
We live and learn.
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Remember that sometimes bad things lead to the best things.
Before you say no, think "why not?"
Shift your mindset so that you concentrate on what makes you feel happy, not on what makes you feel safe.
Pray about it.
Warnings:
Don't confuse being laid-back with being lazy. People who are laid back get things done, but they do so with a relaxed attitude rather than a frantic attitude. Lazy people just don't get things done.
Personality tests such as Myers-Briggs can help you determine your particular personality. Understanding people will stop you judging them and let you cut them some slack. This goes for yourself too!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Free-Spirited Advice II
WARNING, If you havn't already done so, I recommend reading my previous blog "Free-Spirited Advice I", it will help this make more sense. So off ya go! See you back here in a few minutes. :)
...continued.
Tips
• Free spirits don't like the idea of being judged. Once you start judging them, they feel it's a personal attack and will back off and may even vanish so be careful with your words and actions. But once you meet him/her on the same level (learn to accept them) they can become the most extraordinary individual you ever met.
• Don't try to change him or her. This is a classic mistake, in any kind of relationship, but especially when you're dealing with a rugged individual.
• Give them time to themselves and to their projects. Independent individuals tend to have a burning need to progress alone - sometimes you have to let them go down a path by themselves and just let them know you'll be there for them when they get to the end.
Warnings
• Just because you're inviting a free spirit into your life doesn't mean you need to do dangerous things like practice unsafe sex, do drugs, ride a motorcycle in inclement weather, etc. Not every free spirit is trustworthy (although most are), and some just simply cannot be tamed.
• You can never truly "tame" a free spirit. What you want to do is have the free spirit close to you. Think of it as changing your location (bringing yourself out into the wild) rather than theirs (bringing them indoors).
• If all else fails, try to enjoy the free spirit from afar. Support their activities, and communicate that you appreciate their decisions. Sometimes it is hard to be a free spirit (not everyone accepts them as they are and sensitivity can often be an issue if you don't stay open to their beliefs), and occasionally some encouragement feels good, even if they are incredibly independent.
I hope that hopes someone out there.
...continued.
Tips
• Free spirits don't like the idea of being judged. Once you start judging them, they feel it's a personal attack and will back off and may even vanish so be careful with your words and actions. But once you meet him/her on the same level (learn to accept them) they can become the most extraordinary individual you ever met.
• Don't try to change him or her. This is a classic mistake, in any kind of relationship, but especially when you're dealing with a rugged individual.
• Give them time to themselves and to their projects. Independent individuals tend to have a burning need to progress alone - sometimes you have to let them go down a path by themselves and just let them know you'll be there for them when they get to the end.
Warnings
• Just because you're inviting a free spirit into your life doesn't mean you need to do dangerous things like practice unsafe sex, do drugs, ride a motorcycle in inclement weather, etc. Not every free spirit is trustworthy (although most are), and some just simply cannot be tamed.
• You can never truly "tame" a free spirit. What you want to do is have the free spirit close to you. Think of it as changing your location (bringing yourself out into the wild) rather than theirs (bringing them indoors).
• If all else fails, try to enjoy the free spirit from afar. Support their activities, and communicate that you appreciate their decisions. Sometimes it is hard to be a free spirit (not everyone accepts them as they are and sensitivity can often be an issue if you don't stay open to their beliefs), and occasionally some encouragement feels good, even if they are incredibly independent.
I hope that hopes someone out there.
Free-Spirited Advice I
I am a very independant person. I won't get into the reasons why I have turned out that way, other than to say I have always been like this and completely happy with my own company, often spending days on end without ever thinking of talking to someone else. I just hardly ever see the need! Of course there is a need, but some people are quite happy with their own company. After some research as to why I was like this, one of the terms that was shown to me was "free-spirited". Not the cheesy Hollywood hippy cliche, but someone who could quite happily spend his life just thinking about stuff...going with the flow... Anyway, being like this can make it hard for people who want to be close to you, and since verbally explaining things is not my strength, I thought this could help someone who finds me, or anyone else in their life, difficult to understand. It's some advice on how to handle a relationship with a very independant, free-spirited person who seems to just do whatever they feel like when they feel like doing it!
1. Get your priorities straight. What do you want most out of the relationship? Think about what your top three expectations are: Commitment? Respect? Honesty? Affection? Companionship? Passion? Security? Stability? A free spirit is not the kind to twist and turn to meet your every need (although some can at times, once they feel they can completely trust you). You'll have to make it simple for them by coming to an understanding of what you want most out of a relationship and asking for that, and nothing else.
2. Don't sweat the small stuff. Things like punctuality, precautions, and any other kind of minor limit or inhibition will be of no concern to an independent mind. They like to flow through life, following their whims - and this often makes them extremely creative and fascinating individuals, which is what probably attracted you to them in the first place. By imposing dams, as little as they may be, you could very well suffocate the qualities that make this person desirable to you, if you don't manage to scare them off first.
3. Choose your battles wisely. Don't nitpick. If they're 15 minutes late and you end up missing a movie, roll with the punches and see the next one. But if they're 45 minutes late to pick you up in the middle of the night in a bad neighborhood, that's serious. In general, if it doesn't directly threaten the priorities you established in Step 1, then let it go and just enjoy the ride.
4. Avoid setting rules. Restrictions are like chains, and will send this wild horse running towards the horizon. Instead of saying, "Don't ever cheat on me," say "You'd be a complete idiot to risk losing such an awesome person like me just so you could get a little extra on the side."
5. Get to know the person inside out. Study their tendencies, their quirks, their deepest desires, and their worst fears. Always be accepting and open-minded. Knowledge is power. The better you know this person, the less you'll feel the need to control them. Moreover, he or she will sense this and feel like you're the only person who truly knows them and thus, the only person they can be their uninhibited selves around. To a free spirit, this is the jackpot.
6. Give them the benefit of the doubt. A person who values his or her independence will truly test your ability to trust. You need to determine early on whether or not you trust this person, and then trust them completely. Sure, you might get burned, but you also might capture the heart of a person that no one else could touch.
7. Get in touch with your own free spirit. Don't sit at home, wondering what he or she is doing, or when they're going to call. Get in your car and take a road trip. Visit an old friend. Watch a new movie. Taste a different kind of food. Your free spirit will respect you for it, and feel a sense of kinship with you when you both get home and recount your adventures.
8. Appreciate their free-spiritedness. The number one condition that all free spirits demand of their relationships is acceptance. If you don't accept the free spirit, the free spirited person takes that as an assault on his/her freedom. If you accept them exactly as they are and place no expectations/conditions on them, then they can trust you. And only in trust can a relationship develop. Just remember that independence is something to be appreciated, not just tolerated, you'll be giving a free spirit exactly the kind of nourishment that it needs.
to be continued...when I feel like it...
1. Get your priorities straight. What do you want most out of the relationship? Think about what your top three expectations are: Commitment? Respect? Honesty? Affection? Companionship? Passion? Security? Stability? A free spirit is not the kind to twist and turn to meet your every need (although some can at times, once they feel they can completely trust you). You'll have to make it simple for them by coming to an understanding of what you want most out of a relationship and asking for that, and nothing else.
2. Don't sweat the small stuff. Things like punctuality, precautions, and any other kind of minor limit or inhibition will be of no concern to an independent mind. They like to flow through life, following their whims - and this often makes them extremely creative and fascinating individuals, which is what probably attracted you to them in the first place. By imposing dams, as little as they may be, you could very well suffocate the qualities that make this person desirable to you, if you don't manage to scare them off first.
3. Choose your battles wisely. Don't nitpick. If they're 15 minutes late and you end up missing a movie, roll with the punches and see the next one. But if they're 45 minutes late to pick you up in the middle of the night in a bad neighborhood, that's serious. In general, if it doesn't directly threaten the priorities you established in Step 1, then let it go and just enjoy the ride.
4. Avoid setting rules. Restrictions are like chains, and will send this wild horse running towards the horizon. Instead of saying, "Don't ever cheat on me," say "You'd be a complete idiot to risk losing such an awesome person like me just so you could get a little extra on the side."
5. Get to know the person inside out. Study their tendencies, their quirks, their deepest desires, and their worst fears. Always be accepting and open-minded. Knowledge is power. The better you know this person, the less you'll feel the need to control them. Moreover, he or she will sense this and feel like you're the only person who truly knows them and thus, the only person they can be their uninhibited selves around. To a free spirit, this is the jackpot.
6. Give them the benefit of the doubt. A person who values his or her independence will truly test your ability to trust. You need to determine early on whether or not you trust this person, and then trust them completely. Sure, you might get burned, but you also might capture the heart of a person that no one else could touch.
7. Get in touch with your own free spirit. Don't sit at home, wondering what he or she is doing, or when they're going to call. Get in your car and take a road trip. Visit an old friend. Watch a new movie. Taste a different kind of food. Your free spirit will respect you for it, and feel a sense of kinship with you when you both get home and recount your adventures.
8. Appreciate their free-spiritedness. The number one condition that all free spirits demand of their relationships is acceptance. If you don't accept the free spirit, the free spirited person takes that as an assault on his/her freedom. If you accept them exactly as they are and place no expectations/conditions on them, then they can trust you. And only in trust can a relationship develop. Just remember that independence is something to be appreciated, not just tolerated, you'll be giving a free spirit exactly the kind of nourishment that it needs.
to be continued...when I feel like it...
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