Honesty (Integrity) vs. deceitfulness (duplicity)

Proverbs 11:3 “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. How valuable to you is your reputation?  Do you realize that everything you do defines your reputation?  Aside from your faith, your reputation is your most valuable possession.  Who you are guides your entire life.  Do you daily ask yourself—how does what I am doing affect my reputation?  If you have not asked yourself that question—you should, for the answer defines you.

Pride vs. humility

Proverbs 11:2 “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” Let others tell you of their appreciation for your efforts, but never allow that praise affect the purpose of your cause because that praise could have been criticism and could have left you distraught and deeply damaged your efforts.  Always be wise in your causes and purpose while letting humility and wisdom reign with your Savior walking at your side.

Expectations and hopes

Proverbs 10:28 “The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.” There is a natural desire for all of humanity to live a happy and successful life.  The formula for such a life is clearly defined in this passage.  All one has to do is live a life with our Savior at the center and continually focus on the principles clearly defined by our Heavenly Father.  A life of joy is available to all—-why not grab that life and never let go!

Two choices

Proverbs 10:23 “A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom.” To be a student of foolish pleasure or a student learning and practicing wise council is a choice each of us makes many times a day.  Are we aware of that truth or do we live as if choices are arbitrary and pleasure is really what matters?  Although pleasures can be a wonderful gift from our Heavenly Father, we should love being wise every second of our lives.

God’s blessings

Proverbs 10:22 “The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it.” Is having lots of money and being recognized everywhere you go the epitome of a great life?  Yes, it is if you have a total lack of understanding and wisdom.  What is the greatest of blessings?  Trips, nice cars, beautiful home-maybe a couple, buying power, fashionable clothes–these are definitely blessings, BUT, the greatest blessing on this earth is peace and contentedness.  Those blessings only come with a close and loving relationship with your Heavenly Father.  Work hard on attaining the true definition of wealth. Have a great weekend.