The importance of self-control

Proverbs 25:28 “Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.” The last of the 9 fruits of the Spirit which define the being every Christian strives for is self-control.  You and I as adopted children ofour Heavenly Father realize we will fail when we practice pleasures controlled by our own whims and desires.  We will fall into a trap which will lead to our own destruction.  Each of us need to happily and voluntarily pray that the Holy Spirit direct our every action so that we live wise and honorable lives always glorifying our Savior and never ourselves.  That is the conclusion of a successful life.

Be understanding

Proverbs 25:20 “Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on soda, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.” Often what a person displays on the outside is not what their heart is feeling on the inside.  Life on this earth is full of sadness even though most of the time when asked–how are you–the answer is fine or ok at worst.  Almost everyone you meet has issues which are obviously evident or are troubling internally.  Especially when a person is hurting, and it is very evident, show that person empathy and understanding.  Never ignore a hurting heart.

Clouds and wind bring rain–right?

Proverbs 25:14 “Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of gifts he does not give.” If a person accumulates stuff as a hoarder, life becomes emptier and emptier, and the pure joy of giving is never realized.  Giving, along with sincere appreciation, is one of the gifts in the treasure chest of life.  Never sharing makes for a very lonely life and then when life on this earth is over, the question always asked is: who did he/she help?  The answer will identify the person’s contentedness level while living.  

Wisdom given and received

Proverbs 25:12 “Like an earring of gold or an ornament of fine gold is a wise man’s rebuke to a listening ear.” Gold is the most widely known precious metal on earth.  To own gold is to own treasure.  Wisdom falls into the same category.  To either give wisdom in conversation or to be the recipient and gain wisdom is a joy God graciously gives to His faithful followers.Question—Would you rather receive wisdom or gold?  Which has greater value?

Think…–then talk

Proverbs 25:11 “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.” Always, not sometimes, not periodically, not once in a while, not now and then—ALWAYS-think, ponder, evaluate, consider before expressing a thought or advising another person.  Be wise in your thoughts and words.  When doing so your counsel will be heard and applied by a wise recipient just as if you were giving rare gems set in precious settings. Have a great weekend.