We’ve been talking about the rare but essential quality of tact. I mentioned that the classic example of tactless humanity is the abrasive Christian who feels it is his or her calling to fight for the truth with little or no regard for the other fella’s feelings. For all his rapid-fire Scripture quotations, you will rarely find Proverbs 18:19 on the lips of this armored crusader:
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Being Real, Part Two
Yesterday I told you about Dave Cowens, an NBA star who disappeared one day on a quest for solitude and meaning. I noted that to “find yourself” requires that you take time to look. And it’s essential if you want to be a whole person. The word is real. It takes time and it usually hurts. The Velveteen Rabbit is a classy book for children with a message for adults.
Read MoreReckless Friendship
“Can you see anything?” What a question to ask! Howard Carter’s mouth and eyes were wide open when his aide asked it. His head was stuck into a timeless tomb. Beads of perspiration popped out on the British archaeologist’s brow. For six straight years he had been digging. Endless trenches. Tons of rubble. Huge chunks of worthless debris. Nothing!
Read MoreHope for Survival
A certain fascinating social phenomenon occurred in American history. Understand, I wasn’t living back then, but from what I read, this actually happened. It occurred when “Go west, young man!” was the challenge of America . . . when squatter’s rights seemed the most advantageous way to pry families loose and dare them to brave the elements via the covered wagon.
Read MoreA Bridge Called Credibility, Part Two
Listen to what the Scriptures have to say about keeping your word: Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor. (Ephesians 4:25 NIV) And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Colossians 3:17 NIV) LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless . . .
Read MoreSacrament of Broken Seed
Chances are running high that you’re in a hurry today. Am I right? Your “To Do” list stretches on and on. If you’re reading this in the morning, you’re wondering how in the world you’ll get it all done. If the day has already slipped away as you read these words, you’re wondering where in the world the hours went.
Read MoreMiscommunication, Part One
“Don’t garble the message!” If I heard that once during Marine boot camp, I must’ve heard it four dozen times. Again and again, our outfit was warned against hearing one thing, then passing on a slightly different version. You know, changing the message by altering the meaning a tad. It’s so easy to do, isn’t it? Especially when it’s filtered through several minds, then pushed through each mouth.
Read MoreFriendships
The world in which one person lives is too limited and restricted. When rubbing shoulders with another, we gain a panoramic view, which allows us to see the whole picture. “As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects man” (Prov. 27:19). That’s so picturesque! People provide a clear reflection of what is in the heart. A mirror goes only skin deep. The counsel of a friend reflects what is down inside.
Read MoreCourage
Someone once wrote, “Sow a thought, reap an act. Sow an act, reap a habit. Sow a habit, reap your character. Sow your character, reap your destiny.” Standing tall when tested takes courage—constant, relentless, never-give-up courage! You can be sure that the old flesh will fight for its arousal and satisfaction. All it takes is a little rationalization—just a little.
Read MoreLabels
Let’s Label. That’s a favorite parlor game among Christians. The rules are easy to remember. Any number can play. But it’s especially appealing to those who are given to oversimplification and making categorical comments. Name-droppers thrive on this game. And it helps if you speak with a measure of authority . . . looking somewhat pious and pronouncing your words very distinctly, very dogmatically.
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