We are now well into a brand-new year. We have had many chances to fulfill our commitments and goals, making this year stand out from previous ones. Indeed, we remain excited about the path that lies before us and the results that will follow. The thrill of the journey motivates us to return to work each day.
Success in any area of life depends on key principles. Regardless of the context, whether relationships, education, business, or faith 鈥 the approach to progress is consistent. Similarly, a unified set of principles can be applied across each area. King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, formulated guidance for his son that serves as valuable instruction.
鈥淭rust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not to thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths鈥 (Proverbs 3:5-6).
The wisdom of this mighty king is perfect and eternal, as he writes under the direction of God鈥檚 Holy Spirit. Solomon鈥檚 insights into success are articulated in a mere two verses, whereas modern 鈥渟uccess gurus鈥 write volumes of books and periodicals that never will hit the mark.
The journey to a life of significance and blessing according to Solomon begins with the single, fundamental step of trust. Which begs the question: who do YOU trust? The best-selling business executive? Good ol鈥 horse sense? Trial and error? A mentor? Solomon emphatically directs his son to the Lord and His Word.
Solomon teaches that pursuing blessings with half-hearted effort leads to failure. Excellence requires full commitment; superior results are never achieved by cutting corners. Trusting the Lord means complete submission to His authority, holiness, and glory, as half-heartedness guarantees disappointment.
In conjunction with wholly trusting God is the mandate of not trusting your personal perceptions of truth! Warnings are ample in the Word of God of the deception of one鈥檚 heart as well as one鈥檚 vulnerability to the 鈥渨iles鈥 on the Enemy. Furthermore, pride is an enemy. Good people often fail due to pride, self-deception and personal agendas. Scripture advises against relying solely on our own understanding.
It is important to recognize the role of spiritual principles in all aspects of daily life. Engaging in prayer and internalizing religious teachings contribute to personal integrity and ethical conduct. Active participation in these principles should extend beyond mere understanding to practical application. Prioritizing spiritual values over fleeting worldly interests encourages a purposeful approach. Aligning individual goals with these guiding beliefs supports a focused pursuit of one鈥檚 intended objectives.
Let us pursue excellence by following the enduring principles found in Proverbs, which assure success.
To live wisely, we should apply these sound practices. If we decide to make changes in the middle of January, let鈥檚 ensure they鈥檙e truly needed and guided by the wise king鈥檚 advice. Remember: 鈥淚n all your ways鈥!鈥
Jon Shonebarger is Department Chaplain for the American Legion Department of Tennessee. Contact Jon at impacthought@gmail.com.
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.