Daily Stop & Thinks

Becoming

The goal is never the goal itself. The goal is who you need to become in order to achieve that goal. (Kary Oberbrunner, motivational speaker and author)

It’s a different way of thinking, isn’t it? We usually think that the basic question is what’s the goal, what are we aiming for? A moms’ coach, Katelyn Denning puts it another way, “The best part about setting a goal is who you need to become in order to achieve it.” A worthy goal requires a worthy effort from a person who is, or becomes, all he or she needs to be to succeed.

If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit . . . The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life . . . Walk with the wise and become wise. (Proverbs 9:12; 11:30; 13:20)

Working Together

In joined hands there is still some token of hope; in the clenched fist, none. (Victor Hugo, 19th century French novelist and playwright)

Hugo’s observation would be a help in our modern society where there is so much turmoil. We take sides—usually to extremes—where there is no room to come to a settled compromise. The “clenched fist” could certainly be the identifying logo for public demonstrations and cruel social media comments. Pray that we can find ways to join hands in combating the evils that haunt us.

From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward (Proverbs 12:14).

Integrity

Often, if there is no risk of loss or painful consequences, one will never know if one has integrity. (Sam Storms, teacher and author)

Storms continues, “One will never know if what motivates you is moral conviction or moral convenience until you are forced to suffer loss for standing your ground or keeping your word.” These words are especially challenging: “Moral conviction or moral convenience.” It may be easier sometimes to give in rather than stand up; that’s where our integrity is tested.

All [God’s] commandments are trustworthy. They are forever true, to be obeyed faithfully and with integrity . . . Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord (Psalm 111:7-8; 119:1).

Soul Care

We work, we play…we work, we play–but our spirits are neglected in the cycle. (William Wilberforce, 18th-19th century British statesman)

The 21st century doesn’t seem to be much different. Appearing to be successful, multitudes of businessmen and women are workaholics. They put in many hours of work, and when they take some time off, it’s usually to be involved in fitness or sports activities at great expense and exertion. Many of the same people sense loneliness and frustration for the lack of soul care.

And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? (Matthew 16:26)

Kindness

Every act of kindness grows the spirit and strengthens the soul. (Source unknown)

It’s so refreshing in this fast-paced, self-centered world to experience the kindness of another person, whether a friend or stranger. A wall hanging includes this encouragement: “Just imagine how different the world could be if we all spoke to everyone with respect and kindness.” Not only does it affect the other person in good ways, but it also enables our own spirit to flourish.

Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (Proverbs 16:24).

Teamwork

I can do great things you cannot. You can do great things I cannot. Together we can do great things. (Mother Teresa, late religious social advocate)

Another popular saying puts it this way, “Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.” That truth is clearly demonstrated in successful athletic teams, play casts, and music concerts. And it ought to be true in our business, community, and charitable cooperation. Not only do we accomplish more of value, but we find great joy in those working relationships.

He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love (Ephesians 4:16.) 

Positivity

A negative mind will never give you a positive life. (Ziad K. Abdelnour, investment banker)

If you always see the half-empty cup or the mud surrounding the flower, you may have difficulty seeing the good in people or events that are not quite perfect. We want people to be at their best, and we’re disappointed when a game or concert we paid to see, is less than excellent. But, if we continually see the negative, we will miss the blessing of the good we’ve overlooked.

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8).

Anger

Anger is a wind which blows out the lamp of the mind. (Robert Green Ingersoll, 19th century American orator)

An unknown writer observed: “It’s a child’s reaction to an adult situation. And still another: “Anger is one letter short of danger.” If all that is true, why is anger such a prevalent response in modern communication and interaction? The Bible notes that “Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back (Prov. 29:11). Mature adults are careful not to lose their way in anger.

Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry (Ephesians 4:26).

At Peace

Until you make peace with who you are you will never be content with what you [have]. (Doris Mortman, bestselling author)

We’ve all known people who seem to want to be different from what they appear to be. Although they may have a good job, a contented family life, and a healthy lifestyle, they are discontent, wishing they were like some successful athlete, entertainer, or community leader. But as Mortman notes, peace is not in what you have but in what you can be as your true self.

I have learned how to be content with whatever I have (Philippians 4:11).

Worry

No amount of regretting can change the past, and no amount of worrying can change the future. (Roy T. Bennett, author)

It’s obvious, isn’t it? Yet, we often recall one experience or the other: sorrowing over past mistakes or fretting about tomorrow. Some life-lessons are just hard to learn. We keep repeating our errors even when we know better. It’s important to have really good friends whose positive view of life and compassion for us will help us live in the present with hope for the future.

So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries (Matthew 6:24).

But I am trusting you, O Lord . . .  My future is in your hands (Psalm 31:14, 15).

A Better Way

Love is a better teacher than duty. (Albert Einstein, renowned scientist)

You wouldn’t think it would take a great mind, like Einstein’s, to discover this truth. Most parents and teachers know it, too. The truth became clear, probably, after trying it the other way. Encouraging students because we care has much better success than when we coerce learners to do their homework or complete a difficult assignment just because they have to.

O Lord . . .  teach me your decrees . . . I am your servant . . . teach me your decrees . . . Look upon me with love; teach me your decrees. (Psalm 119:64, 124, 135)

Competition

You should only compete with one person: yourself. (Herbert Lui, author)

Lui continues: “Life is a competition, but it’s not a race against anyone else. Rather, the real journey is only against yourself and unrealized potential.” Most young people who like sports want to win so badly it’s all they can think about. They’re continually planning how to beat the other guy. Youthful competition is temporary, but the real goal is to reach your full potential.

Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever (1 Corinthians 9:25).