Proverbs 28:13
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
The three most powerful phrases in the world are "I am sorry". These words do not change the fact that an offense has occurred, but it can shorten the time that the negative effects of a wrong live on. Many victims of wrongs seek a full apology, an acknwoledgement that they have been wronged and that the perpetrator is truly grieved for their offense.
In a story reported in Psychology Today Jennifer Robbennolt, a law professor at the University of Missouri, Columbia, presented some 145 people, ages 21 to 70, with variations on the same hypothetical accident scenario. When the person at fault did not apologize, 52 percent said that they would accept a cash settlement to resolve the case. If a full apology was presented, the number jumped to 73 percent. And when the person at fault offered only a partial apology, in which he did not accept fault for the collision, only 35 percent of subjects accepted the proposed settlement.
A sincere, full apology can restore relationships. We should try it more often.
For more information on the article mentioned in this blog:
http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200402/suing-apology
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
The Present Future
Proverbs 27:1
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
Bruce Malina contends that the person in the first century Mediterranean world had a "manana" orientation. He or she "puts off for an indefinite manana those things that can be put off, and today those things that can only be done today...then what must be done now or never is done and what can be postponed until another day is postponed" (Malina, 1996, p. 198). The first century person was often concerned about survival and did not have the luxury of planning their future. Their future would be the result of their daiy choices. In time management language, Brian Tracey says you must constantly ask yourself "What is the most inportant I can be doing right now, and do it right now!"
This proverb calls us to focus on what is the most important thing in front of us and not daydream about the future or when we have more time. It calls us to be faithful to the tasks God calls us to today and to trust him for our tomorrow.
Malina, Bruce (1996). The Social World of Jesus and the Gospels. Routledge: New York, NY
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.
Bruce Malina contends that the person in the first century Mediterranean world had a "manana" orientation. He or she "puts off for an indefinite manana those things that can be put off, and today those things that can only be done today...then what must be done now or never is done and what can be postponed until another day is postponed" (Malina, 1996, p. 198). The first century person was often concerned about survival and did not have the luxury of planning their future. Their future would be the result of their daiy choices. In time management language, Brian Tracey says you must constantly ask yourself "What is the most inportant I can be doing right now, and do it right now!"
This proverb calls us to focus on what is the most important thing in front of us and not daydream about the future or when we have more time. It calls us to be faithful to the tasks God calls us to today and to trust him for our tomorrow.
Malina, Bruce (1996). The Social World of Jesus and the Gospels. Routledge: New York, NY
Friday, February 26, 2010
Pride's Prison
Proverbs 26:12
Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
As I read the first 11 verses of this chapter, I was blown away by the amount of space dedicated to putting the fool "on blast". The fool is not fit for honor, needs to be reigned in with a whip, is lost in his own world of logic, is an unfit messenger, makes a proverb useless when he speaks it, cannot be honored, and prone to go back to his vile mistakes. In short, the fool is to be avoided at all cost. To invest in a fool is to throw your money into a bottomless.
Then we get the punchline in verse 12, the proud man, the one wise in his own estimation is more lost than the fool. An argument can be made that the fool is lacking something. Perhaps he has been led astray by bad counsel, or his conscience may be seered by years of following a lie, but not so the one wise in his own eyes. The proud have full use of their faculties. The proud make a conscience decision to elevate themselves over others and even the word of the Lord. As hopeless as it is to get through to the fool, more challenging still is it to penetrate the defenses of the proud. Pride is a prison. The only way out is submission to God and respect for our fellow man.
Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
As I read the first 11 verses of this chapter, I was blown away by the amount of space dedicated to putting the fool "on blast". The fool is not fit for honor, needs to be reigned in with a whip, is lost in his own world of logic, is an unfit messenger, makes a proverb useless when he speaks it, cannot be honored, and prone to go back to his vile mistakes. In short, the fool is to be avoided at all cost. To invest in a fool is to throw your money into a bottomless.
Then we get the punchline in verse 12, the proud man, the one wise in his own estimation is more lost than the fool. An argument can be made that the fool is lacking something. Perhaps he has been led astray by bad counsel, or his conscience may be seered by years of following a lie, but not so the one wise in his own eyes. The proud have full use of their faculties. The proud make a conscience decision to elevate themselves over others and even the word of the Lord. As hopeless as it is to get through to the fool, more challenging still is it to penetrate the defenses of the proud. Pride is a prison. The only way out is submission to God and respect for our fellow man.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Where in the World is God?
Proverbs 25:2
It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings.
Academic inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge is a regal endeavor. As the image of God, we are encouraged to search things out to see the patterns in the world that God has created. Instead of receiving information only, we are called to dig deeper into matters. If we look around us we will see God all around us. Instead of asking, "Where in the world in Carmen Santiago?" We need to ask, "Where in the world is God?"
Psalm 19:1-6
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge... There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun, which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion, like a champion rejoicing to run his course. It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is hidden from its heat.
It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings.
Academic inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge is a regal endeavor. As the image of God, we are encouraged to search things out to see the patterns in the world that God has created. Instead of receiving information only, we are called to dig deeper into matters. If we look around us we will see God all around us. Instead of asking, "Where in the world in Carmen Santiago?" We need to ask, "Where in the world is God?"
Psalm 19:1-6
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge... There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun, which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion, like a champion rejoicing to run his course. It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is hidden from its heat.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Child Sex Trafficking
Proverbs 24:11-12
Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?
"Inside the world of child sex trafficking, each year, by some estimates, hundreds of thousands of girls and boys are bought, sold or kidnapped and then forced to have sex with grown men" so begins a NBC Dateline report. One of the most hideous crimes today is the world of child sex trafficking. Now that we know about this, we are compelled to do something about it. Please consider today what you can today to rescue children being led to the slaughter of child sex trafficking.
Things we can do right away:
1. Become informed through reports like those shown on NBC Dateline listed below
2. Sign a petition asking the Obama Administration to fight human trafficking today
3. Financially support organizations like IJM below
4. Pray that "demand" for this trade will become obsolete.
Resources:
Children for Sale http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4038249
International Justice Mission http://www.ijm.org/
Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?
"Inside the world of child sex trafficking, each year, by some estimates, hundreds of thousands of girls and boys are bought, sold or kidnapped and then forced to have sex with grown men" so begins a NBC Dateline report. One of the most hideous crimes today is the world of child sex trafficking. Now that we know about this, we are compelled to do something about it. Please consider today what you can today to rescue children being led to the slaughter of child sex trafficking.
Things we can do right away:
1. Become informed through reports like those shown on NBC Dateline listed below
2. Sign a petition asking the Obama Administration to fight human trafficking today
3. Financially support organizations like IJM below
4. Pray that "demand" for this trade will become obsolete.
Resources:
Children for Sale http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4038249
International Justice Mission http://www.ijm.org/
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Type 2 Diabetes
Proverbs 23:1, 20-21
When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony…Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.
I went to the doctor yesterday and he said because of my family history, I will most likely get adult-onset or Type 2 diabetes. My family does struggle with weight management. But I also realize Type 2 diabetes and other weight related illnesses are avoidable by following the guidance in these Proverbs. Type 2 diabetes is avoidable, let’s put an end to it.
Quick Facts on Type 2 diabetes:
• At least 90% of patients with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
• Type 2 diabetes is typically recognized in adulthood, usually after age 45 years.
• Type 2 diabetes is usually controlled with diet, weight loss, exercise, and oral medications. More than half of all people with type 2 diabetes require insulin to control their blood sugar levels at some point in the course of their illness.
For more information on diabetes
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/diabetes/article_em.htm
When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony…Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.
I went to the doctor yesterday and he said because of my family history, I will most likely get adult-onset or Type 2 diabetes. My family does struggle with weight management. But I also realize Type 2 diabetes and other weight related illnesses are avoidable by following the guidance in these Proverbs. Type 2 diabetes is avoidable, let’s put an end to it.
Quick Facts on Type 2 diabetes:
• At least 90% of patients with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
• Type 2 diabetes is typically recognized in adulthood, usually after age 45 years.
• Type 2 diabetes is usually controlled with diet, weight loss, exercise, and oral medications. More than half of all people with type 2 diabetes require insulin to control their blood sugar levels at some point in the course of their illness.
For more information on diabetes
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/diabetes/article_em.htm
Monday, February 22, 2010
Economic Emancipation: Credit Card Reform Takes Place Today
Proverbs 22:7
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
Proverbs 22:2, 9, 16, 22-23
Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all...A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor...He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich--both come to poverty...Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who plunder them.
The Credit Card Reform Act directs credit card companies to show the loan pay-off date when the minimum balance only is paid, forbids raising interest rates without a 45 day notice, and prohibits charging fees when you go over your credit. All of these efforts are an attempt to give consumers adequate information to manage their debt and to be rid of predatory practices meant to increase the profit of credit card companies on the back of consumers.
Now it’s our turn to get our finances in order so that such legislation would not be needed.
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.
Proverbs 22:2, 9, 16, 22-23
Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all...A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor...He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich--both come to poverty...Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the LORD will take up their case and will plunder those who plunder them.
The Credit Card Reform Act directs credit card companies to show the loan pay-off date when the minimum balance only is paid, forbids raising interest rates without a 45 day notice, and prohibits charging fees when you go over your credit. All of these efforts are an attempt to give consumers adequate information to manage their debt and to be rid of predatory practices meant to increase the profit of credit card companies on the back of consumers.
Now it’s our turn to get our finances in order so that such legislation would not be needed.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
God is Sovereign, Man is Responsible.
Proverbs 21:1-2, 30-31
The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases. All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart...There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD....The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.
I do not live in a random unvierse, nor am I the captain of my own destiny. I am a created being living out the plans laid out for me by my benevolent Creator. He directs the powerful wherever he wishes, I never have to fear that my fate is ultimately in the hand of man. That is important to know when there is so much evil in the world and many suffer from the unjust actions of others. God redeems each event in life to accomplish his purpose. I can go to the Lord for wisom and insight. I submit my plans to him so that I will find myself a friend, rather than a foe of God. That which is in alignment with God's design for the world will succeed.
Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.
Living in the light of God's word does not make me a fatalist, nor leaves room for complacency. I am invited by my gracious God to plan, to take initiative, and to prosper in this world. God's sovereignty does not make human initiative null and void.
The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases. All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart...There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD....The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.
I do not live in a random unvierse, nor am I the captain of my own destiny. I am a created being living out the plans laid out for me by my benevolent Creator. He directs the powerful wherever he wishes, I never have to fear that my fate is ultimately in the hand of man. That is important to know when there is so much evil in the world and many suffer from the unjust actions of others. God redeems each event in life to accomplish his purpose. I can go to the Lord for wisom and insight. I submit my plans to him so that I will find myself a friend, rather than a foe of God. That which is in alignment with God's design for the world will succeed.
Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.
Living in the light of God's word does not make me a fatalist, nor leaves room for complacency. I am invited by my gracious God to plan, to take initiative, and to prosper in this world. God's sovereignty does not make human initiative null and void.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Promises and other thoughts
Proverbs 20
25 It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows.
This verse does not say, "Do not make any vows". Rather it is a warning to be thoughtful before making a vow. Making commitments help people around us know what to expect from us. Making public commitments hold us accountable to follow through with the good we desire to do. Making commitments help us to reach our highest potential.
3 It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.
Only fight when you have to.
4 A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing. 13 Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.
I have a friend that works hard and long whenever he sets his heart on a vacation, an electronic gadget, or when Christmas comes up. But once he reaches his goal, he stops working until the next must have thing comes along. How much better off he would be if he embraced consistent work when work is available?
5 The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
We are all in the people development buisiness. Each person has a dream or God-given assignment implanted deep within them. The person of understanding seeks to help people believe, embrace, and live out their hidden unique design.
9 Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?
Humility is called for whenever we hear of the latest scandal in the church or the media.
25 It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows.
This verse does not say, "Do not make any vows". Rather it is a warning to be thoughtful before making a vow. Making commitments help people around us know what to expect from us. Making public commitments hold us accountable to follow through with the good we desire to do. Making commitments help us to reach our highest potential.
3 It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.
Only fight when you have to.
4 A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing. 13 Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.
I have a friend that works hard and long whenever he sets his heart on a vacation, an electronic gadget, or when Christmas comes up. But once he reaches his goal, he stops working until the next must have thing comes along. How much better off he would be if he embraced consistent work when work is available?
5 The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
We are all in the people development buisiness. Each person has a dream or God-given assignment implanted deep within them. The person of understanding seeks to help people believe, embrace, and live out their hidden unique design.
9 Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?
Humility is called for whenever we hear of the latest scandal in the church or the media.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Read the Instructions first
Proverbs 19:2, 20
It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way...Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.
Read the instructions...words that few men ever heed. Give a man a complex construction problem and he is ready to have at it. So it is with the person that is gun-ho and excited about a project and commits before having true knowledge of the endeavor. We are called to listen to advice and accept instruction. When we move too quickly, we miss the mark. We need to change our decision making process. We need to seek out and accept advice to get more perspectives before we commit to something.
Proverbs 19:3
A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the LORD.
How is it that when we make a mistake, we blame God for the consequences of our actions?
Proverbs 19:11
A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
The wise seem to know when to speak and when to refrain from speaking. They know which offense to make a big deal over and which to let go.
It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way...Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.
Read the instructions...words that few men ever heed. Give a man a complex construction problem and he is ready to have at it. So it is with the person that is gun-ho and excited about a project and commits before having true knowledge of the endeavor. We are called to listen to advice and accept instruction. When we move too quickly, we miss the mark. We need to change our decision making process. We need to seek out and accept advice to get more perspectives before we commit to something.
Proverbs 19:3
A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the LORD.
How is it that when we make a mistake, we blame God for the consequences of our actions?
Proverbs 19:11
A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
The wise seem to know when to speak and when to refrain from speaking. They know which offense to make a big deal over and which to let go.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Life Giving Words
“If you send a controlling man to a communications class, you would produce a more eloquent, persuasive controlling man.”
Proverbs 18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Luke 4:45
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Our words are a symptom of what is going on inside of us. Words are so powerful because they express our inner most commitments. A Christian counselor named Paul Tripp said, “If you send a controlling man to a communications class, you will produce a more eloquent, persuasive controlling man.” Changing one's vocabulary and tone will not bring lasting change. A new heart is reliant on God rather than self. A new heart is committed to God's will and concerned for the welfare of others will produce the overflow of words that will build people up rather than tear down.
Proverbs 18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Luke 4:45
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Our words are a symptom of what is going on inside of us. Words are so powerful because they express our inner most commitments. A Christian counselor named Paul Tripp said, “If you send a controlling man to a communications class, you will produce a more eloquent, persuasive controlling man.” Changing one's vocabulary and tone will not bring lasting change. A new heart is reliant on God rather than self. A new heart is committed to God's will and concerned for the welfare of others will produce the overflow of words that will build people up rather than tear down.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Tried and True Relationships
Proverbs 17:3,10
The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart...A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool.
A crucible was used from ancient times as a container for melting or testing metals, crucibles were probably so named from the Latin word crux, “cross” or “trial.” Another definition of crucible is a “severe test”. Just like the purity of silver or gold was tested in extreme heat, God will allow severe tests to come into our life to expose our heart. It is through crisis and trial that we demonstrate whether or not our heart is really with God or we just follow him when times are good. A relationship is similarly tried by difficult conversations. A true friend will appreciate an honest rebuke. I often say that I do not the depth of a relationship until we undergo conflict. The relationship that ends or sours because we had to say difficult things is on shaky ground. The relationship that appreciates open, honest, and loving communication is set on a firm foundation.
Have your relationships passed the crucible test?
The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart...A rebuke impresses a man of discernment more than a hundred lashes a fool.
A crucible was used from ancient times as a container for melting or testing metals, crucibles were probably so named from the Latin word crux, “cross” or “trial.” Another definition of crucible is a “severe test”. Just like the purity of silver or gold was tested in extreme heat, God will allow severe tests to come into our life to expose our heart. It is through crisis and trial that we demonstrate whether or not our heart is really with God or we just follow him when times are good. A relationship is similarly tried by difficult conversations. A true friend will appreciate an honest rebuke. I often say that I do not the depth of a relationship until we undergo conflict. The relationship that ends or sours because we had to say difficult things is on shaky ground. The relationship that appreciates open, honest, and loving communication is set on a firm foundation.
Have your relationships passed the crucible test?
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Creative Work
Proverbs 16:1-3, 9, 25, 33
To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue. All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD. Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. ...In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps...There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death...The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.
Creativity is a gift and command from God to man. When God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden, he commanded him to "cultivate it and keep it". Adam was not only to be a manager of the garden, but a cultivator, a creator. He was to bring his ideas and energy to his work within the ample boundaries God has set. We too are invited to dream and propose new ways to cooperate with God in making this world a better place.
Commit your dreams to God, submit to his “edits”, and watch him establish your plans.
To man belong the plans of the heart, but from the LORD comes the reply of the tongue. All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD. Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. ...In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps...There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death...The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.
Creativity is a gift and command from God to man. When God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden, he commanded him to "cultivate it and keep it". Adam was not only to be a manager of the garden, but a cultivator, a creator. He was to bring his ideas and energy to his work within the ample boundaries God has set. We too are invited to dream and propose new ways to cooperate with God in making this world a better place.
Commit your dreams to God, submit to his “edits”, and watch him establish your plans.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Attitude Determines Altitude
Proverbs 15:13, 30
A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit... A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.
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A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit... A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.
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I had a professor who loved to say "Attitude determines altitude". I think he did that because his class was on Quantitative Analysis - business statistics - and he realized that his students did not readily share his enthusiasm for the subject. Like the Proverbs listed here, he understood that a positive disposition would make learning more palatable.
Some of us need to learn that celebration is okay. I grew up pretty task oriented. I didn't do things because I liked them; I did them because they had to be done. Having fun was not a priority to me. As I get older, I am embracing that life should be fun. In fact I enjoy my family and work so much that I probably work harder now, but don't realize it. A cheerful heart brings joy to whatever you do.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Due Diligence
Proverbs 14:15
A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps.
My first foray into private business ownership has been an unmitigated failure. I thought with good motives, a business degree, and ability to raise capital, I'd be an instant success. I was wrong. There are two words that I learned in business school that I understand a whole lot better today, "due diligence". If had done my due diligence, I would have read the financials of the businesses that I purchased more thoroughly to notice their negative revenue trend line. If I had done my due diligence, I would have read my lease agreements closer to understand the terms of termination without cause. If I had done my due diligence, I would not have jumped into business because money became available, but would have given thought to the timing of when to open each location and given more time evaluating the profitability of one business location before committing to two additional ones.
I believed everything and was left with nothing. Had I done my due diligence, I would have been more thoughtful. Due diligence is my new favorite phrase.
A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps.
My first foray into private business ownership has been an unmitigated failure. I thought with good motives, a business degree, and ability to raise capital, I'd be an instant success. I was wrong. There are two words that I learned in business school that I understand a whole lot better today, "due diligence". If had done my due diligence, I would have read the financials of the businesses that I purchased more thoroughly to notice their negative revenue trend line. If I had done my due diligence, I would have read my lease agreements closer to understand the terms of termination without cause. If I had done my due diligence, I would not have jumped into business because money became available, but would have given thought to the timing of when to open each location and given more time evaluating the profitability of one business location before committing to two additional ones.
I believed everything and was left with nothing. Had I done my due diligence, I would have been more thoughtful. Due diligence is my new favorite phrase.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
The Sweetness of Soul
Proverbs 13: 12, 19
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.
As a parent, you learn not to tell kids about going to the amusement park or going swimming. If you do, be prepared for the endless stream of “Daddy, when are we going?” “Can we go now?” Worse still is if something comes up and you can’t do it. You crush your kids’ dreams and cause them all kinds of grief. It is like the pain of a person looking for a job being told “We are not hiring today”. The human heart breaks when a hope is deferred.
I fear that some give up and refuse to dream or pursue a certain path because we fear that our dream will not come true. We give up before we gain the victory that God has for us. God can be trusted with our desires. When we face disappointment, we can go to him for help and keep pressing on until we experience the sweetness of the soul when our longing is fulfilled.
Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.
As a parent, you learn not to tell kids about going to the amusement park or going swimming. If you do, be prepared for the endless stream of “Daddy, when are we going?” “Can we go now?” Worse still is if something comes up and you can’t do it. You crush your kids’ dreams and cause them all kinds of grief. It is like the pain of a person looking for a job being told “We are not hiring today”. The human heart breaks when a hope is deferred.
I fear that some give up and refuse to dream or pursue a certain path because we fear that our dream will not come true. We give up before we gain the victory that God has for us. God can be trusted with our desires. When we face disappointment, we can go to him for help and keep pressing on until we experience the sweetness of the soul when our longing is fulfilled.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Ken Griffey, Barry Bonds* and A-Rod*
Proverbs 12:3
A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted.
I have always been a fan of Ken Griffey Jr. He seems to do things right. He trains; he loves his family, and seems to be an all around good guy. He is currently number 5 on the all-time home run leader board, his position gains greater prominence because of the misdeeds of his peers. While others tried to establish their place in baseball history through the use of performance enhancing drugs, Griffey Jr. remained clean. Whenever Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Alex Rodriquez, Manny Ramirez are mentioned among the all-time greats of the game, there will undoubtedly be some sneers. Some have even suggested that an asterisk be placed on their names to indicate that they cheated. As the Proverb states, "A man cannot be established through wickedness."
You may be called old-fashioned, but this Proverb states an irrevocable truth, "the righteous cannot be uprooted". It may be harder, but following the way of righteous is the only way to become established before God and man. When we are tempted to take a short cut, we need to think again.
A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted.
I have always been a fan of Ken Griffey Jr. He seems to do things right. He trains; he loves his family, and seems to be an all around good guy. He is currently number 5 on the all-time home run leader board, his position gains greater prominence because of the misdeeds of his peers. While others tried to establish their place in baseball history through the use of performance enhancing drugs, Griffey Jr. remained clean. Whenever Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Alex Rodriquez, Manny Ramirez are mentioned among the all-time greats of the game, there will undoubtedly be some sneers. Some have even suggested that an asterisk be placed on their names to indicate that they cheated. As the Proverb states, "A man cannot be established through wickedness."
You may be called old-fashioned, but this Proverb states an irrevocable truth, "the righteous cannot be uprooted". It may be harder, but following the way of righteous is the only way to become established before God and man. When we are tempted to take a short cut, we need to think again.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Cooking the Books
Proverbs 11:1, 3, 5-6
The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.
In the 1990's it became a standard practice for companies on Wall Street to announce how much money you thought your company was going earn. The catch is that once you predict how your company was going to do, the pressure is on to make sure you reach your projection or at least appear to reach your projection or your stock price might suffer. Trapped in their own invention, many companies tried to manipulate their stock price by hiding debt or claiming accounts receivable as cash in the bank in order to look like they met expectations. After the market crashed under the duplicity of Enron, WorldCom and the like, many blamed corporate guidance for corporate failures. The real culprit was individual greed. The instinct to "cook" the books to make things look better than they really are has led many astray.
To read more on corporate guidance: http://curiouscapitalist.blogs.time.com/2007/06/18/an_end_to_corporate_guidance_c/#ixzz0fHtEyHIQ
The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.
In the 1990's it became a standard practice for companies on Wall Street to announce how much money you thought your company was going earn. The catch is that once you predict how your company was going to do, the pressure is on to make sure you reach your projection or at least appear to reach your projection or your stock price might suffer. Trapped in their own invention, many companies tried to manipulate their stock price by hiding debt or claiming accounts receivable as cash in the bank in order to look like they met expectations. After the market crashed under the duplicity of Enron, WorldCom and the like, many blamed corporate guidance for corporate failures. The real culprit was individual greed. The instinct to "cook" the books to make things look better than they really are has led many astray.
To read more on corporate guidance: http://curiouscapitalist.blogs.time.com/2007/06/18/an_end_to_corporate_guidance_c/#ixzz0fHtEyHIQ
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
God’s plan to accumulate wealth has two parts. We have a part and God has a part. We can have faith that God is going to prosper us, but we must also diligently work (James 2:17).
My Part
• Engage in honest work
Proverbs 10:2-3, 16
Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death. The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked…The wage of the righteous leads to life, the gain of the wicked to sin.
• Engage in diligent, consistent work, not market speculations, nor hitting the lottery
Proverbs 10:4-5
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame
God’s Part
• Blessing the work of my hands as he sees fit
Proverbs 10:22
The blessing of the LORD makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17
My Part
• Engage in honest work
Proverbs 10:2-3, 16
Treasures gained by wickedness do not profit, but righteousness delivers from death. The LORD does not let the righteous go hungry, but he thwarts the craving of the wicked…The wage of the righteous leads to life, the gain of the wicked to sin.
• Engage in diligent, consistent work, not market speculations, nor hitting the lottery
Proverbs 10:4-5
A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame
God’s Part
• Blessing the work of my hands as he sees fit
Proverbs 10:22
The blessing of the LORD makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us—
yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
The Fountain of Youth
Proverbs 9:9-12
Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For through me your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer."
The Fountain of Youth is a legendary spring that reputedly restores the youth of anyone who drinks of its waters. Since antiquity there have been legends of a mythical fountain of youth that would extend the life of whoever drank from it. Wisdom from God is such a fountain. It can improve the quantity and quality of your life. The Proverbs instructs us on God's design for maximum enjoyment in life. It speaks about our finances, relationships, work ethic, communication with others, pursuing good, and helping your neighbor among its themes. A daily drink from the Proverbs supplies us with what we need to thrive in this world.
Wisdom calls out, ‘all who are thirsty come and drink from my fountain”.
Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For through me your days will be many, and years will be added to your life. If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer."
The Fountain of Youth is a legendary spring that reputedly restores the youth of anyone who drinks of its waters. Since antiquity there have been legends of a mythical fountain of youth that would extend the life of whoever drank from it. Wisdom from God is such a fountain. It can improve the quantity and quality of your life. The Proverbs instructs us on God's design for maximum enjoyment in life. It speaks about our finances, relationships, work ethic, communication with others, pursuing good, and helping your neighbor among its themes. A daily drink from the Proverbs supplies us with what we need to thrive in this world.
Wisdom calls out, ‘all who are thirsty come and drink from my fountain”.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Do No Harm
Proverbs 8:33-36
Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death."
I have been mediating and preaching on the "Do no harm 90 day Challenge." The word that came to me is that often we do not know the right thing to do, but we can easily identify the wrong thing. So the challenge is to do no harm to ourselves in thought, word, and deed for 90 days. Financially, we are not to make decisions that will hurt us in the long run. Physically, we are not to eat in ways that harm our body. Spiritually, we are to listen to wisdom and follow her precepts. To fail to find wisdom is the greatest harm that one can do to oneself.
God intends good for His children, we must learn to not put up roadblocks to his gracious plans for us.
Listen to my instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway. For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the LORD. But whoever fails to find me harms himself; all who hate me love death."
I have been mediating and preaching on the "Do no harm 90 day Challenge." The word that came to me is that often we do not know the right thing to do, but we can easily identify the wrong thing. So the challenge is to do no harm to ourselves in thought, word, and deed for 90 days. Financially, we are not to make decisions that will hurt us in the long run. Physically, we are not to eat in ways that harm our body. Spiritually, we are to listen to wisdom and follow her precepts. To fail to find wisdom is the greatest harm that one can do to oneself.
God intends good for His children, we must learn to not put up roadblocks to his gracious plans for us.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Obsession
By now it seems that the writer of the Proverbs is obsessed with sex. I think he knew what Paul would write years later, sexual sin reaches deep inside of us and diminishes our ability to honor God. If we are not faithful to our spouses, then how will we be faithful to our God? In the words of the Benedictine Handbook in its prayer on rising, we pray, "May we at all times avoid sin, and in thought, word, and deed do your holy will".
Proverbs 7:21-23
With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life.
1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own…
Proverbs 7:21-23
With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life.
1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own…
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Creditors, Procrastination, and Adultery
Proverbs 6:1-5 - Don't avoid creditors, do all you can to satisfy your debts immediately
My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself…Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids.
Proverbs 6:6-11 - Take initiative to provide for yourself, flee procrastination
Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest… A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest-and poverty will come on you like a bandit
Proverbs 6:27-29, 32 - Adultery always leads to ruin
Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? So is he who sleeps with another man's wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.
My son, if you have put up security for your neighbor, if you have struck hands in pledge for another, if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself…Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor! Allow no sleep to your eyes, no slumber to your eyelids.
Proverbs 6:6-11 - Take initiative to provide for yourself, flee procrastination
Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest… A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest-and poverty will come on you like a bandit
Proverbs 6:27-29, 32 - Adultery always leads to ruin
Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? So is he who sleeps with another man's wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Cultural Seduction and Dave the Banker
Dave became an internet sensation after he was caught on live television viewing images of scantily clad supermodels on his computer. How many of us thought it was just a funny, harmless news story? What's the big deal! It wasn't hardcore and there's just too much political correctness in the world. Well, the writer of the Proverbs doesn't see it that way.
Proverbs 6 tells the story of a young man who is led astray by sensuality. In the end the son cries out, "How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction! I would not obey my teachers or listen to my instructors. I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly." We have bought into a worldview that says that open, unrestricted sexual expression is healthy and that any boundaries amount to political correctness or religious fanaticism. Let's stop drinking the cultural "kool-aide." Instead…
Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. Enjoy sexuality in the God-ordained context of marriage. Or in the words of the great cultural theologians TLC, "Don't go chasing waterfalls, stick close to the river and the streams you are used to."
Proverbs 6 tells the story of a young man who is led astray by sensuality. In the end the son cries out, "How I hated discipline! How my heart spurned correction! I would not obey my teachers or listen to my instructors. I have come to the brink of utter ruin in the midst of the whole assembly." We have bought into a worldview that says that open, unrestricted sexual expression is healthy and that any boundaries amount to political correctness or religious fanaticism. Let's stop drinking the cultural "kool-aide." Instead…
Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. Enjoy sexuality in the God-ordained context of marriage. Or in the words of the great cultural theologians TLC, "Don't go chasing waterfalls, stick close to the river and the streams you are used to."
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Choose Wisdom, Choose Life
Proverbs 4:13
Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.
Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
This Proverb depicts a battle for the heart of a son who has been reared to love and pursue wisdom versus the counsel of the wicked which leads to destruction. The father pleads with his son, because he understands that gaining wisdom is not a once in a lifetime attainment. Wisdom must be constantly nurtured and chosen over the cries of the wicked that seek to take the young man down the wrong path.
Whichever voice is listened to, whichever voice is followed, will reach to the deepest recesses of the human heart. The heart filled with wisdom will bring life to those who drink from its well. The heart filled with wickedness will be death to the bearer and to the one who drinks from its well.
Choose wisdom, choose life.
Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.
Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
This Proverb depicts a battle for the heart of a son who has been reared to love and pursue wisdom versus the counsel of the wicked which leads to destruction. The father pleads with his son, because he understands that gaining wisdom is not a once in a lifetime attainment. Wisdom must be constantly nurtured and chosen over the cries of the wicked that seek to take the young man down the wrong path.
Whichever voice is listened to, whichever voice is followed, will reach to the deepest recesses of the human heart. The heart filled with wisdom will bring life to those who drink from its well. The heart filled with wickedness will be death to the bearer and to the one who drinks from its well.
Choose wisdom, choose life.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
God's economic recovery plan
Proverbs 3:9-10
Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
I was taught as a young boy and later became convinced myself in adulthood to give the first 10% of my income to support the work of my local church. The teaching of the firstfruits is to give to God's work before you satisfy any other needs or obligations as a sign of faith that God will provide your needs in the good times and bad. I must confess that when times get tough, I may be tempted to give to other things before I give to the Lord. This teaching reminds me that I cannot be truly rich if I do not follow commands as my first priority.
Perhaps giving is God's economic recovery plan.
Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
I was taught as a young boy and later became convinced myself in adulthood to give the first 10% of my income to support the work of my local church. The teaching of the firstfruits is to give to God's work before you satisfy any other needs or obligations as a sign of faith that God will provide your needs in the good times and bad. I must confess that when times get tough, I may be tempted to give to other things before I give to the Lord. This teaching reminds me that I cannot be truly rich if I do not follow commands as my first priority.
Perhaps giving is God's economic recovery plan.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Treasure Hunt
Proverbs 2:1-11
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.
In today's difficult times everyone is looking for the best ROI (return on investment). Proverbs 2 instructs us that the pursuit of wisdom yields a great return on our investment. The pursuit of wisdom brings a wealth that cannot erode, nor become devalued.
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.
In today's difficult times everyone is looking for the best ROI (return on investment). Proverbs 2 instructs us that the pursuit of wisdom yields a great return on our investment. The pursuit of wisdom brings a wealth that cannot erode, nor become devalued.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Wisdom Trek
Proverbs 1:1-3
The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair;
Daily reading and meditation on the Proverbs will add to your wisdom and encourage discipline. Discipline that will lead to a prudent life, actually doing what is right and fair. The reason I have embarked on this daily trek through the Proverbs is that there is so much good counsel to follow that can only come about through daily reflection, meditation and practice. I also find that each time I read a chapter in the book of Proverbs, something new calls my attention.
I am looking for follower wisdom trekkers. Consider adding your own original post as well responding to my post whenever you can.
The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair;
Daily reading and meditation on the Proverbs will add to your wisdom and encourage discipline. Discipline that will lead to a prudent life, actually doing what is right and fair. The reason I have embarked on this daily trek through the Proverbs is that there is so much good counsel to follow that can only come about through daily reflection, meditation and practice. I also find that each time I read a chapter in the book of Proverbs, something new calls my attention.
I am looking for follower wisdom trekkers. Consider adding your own original post as well responding to my post whenever you can.
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