A precept-driven life is beneficial. For example, benefits include more capacity. Also, success. Most specifically, being precept-driven brings me influence.
Wisdom is a Female!
Guess what? In Proverbs, wisdom is a female!
For example, “she” and “her” are used in Proverbs 3.15. Likewise, in Proverbs 3.16.
Similarly, see:
1). Proverbs 1.20 – wisdom calls publicly.
2). And Proverbs 2.4 – wisdom is valuable.
3). Also, Proverbs 4.6 – wisdom protects me.
4). As well as Proverbs 7.4 – wisdom is my sister…and
5). Proverbs 8.3 – she yells at me! Ugh!
Repeatedly, wisdom yells at the stubborn. And the shallow. Also, the overconfident, Proverbs 1.22.
Why? Because wisdom wants me to see what’s of greatest value. That is, a precept-driven life, Proverbs 2.4.
Being Precept-driven
Actually, being precept-driven is beneficial because it brings:
First, good judgment, Proverbs 2.8.
Second, discernment, Proverbs 2.9.
Third, subtilty, Proverbs 8.5.
Fourth, deep thoughtfulness, Proverbs 8.12.
Fifth, wealth, Proverbs 8.18.
Building Capacity
Moreover, in Proverbs 3.16, a precept-driven life increases capacity. Actually, it’s worded as “length of days.” Meaning, I accomplish more in a given 24-hour period.
Also, in Proverbs 3.16, being precept-driven brings wealth (“riches”). And honor or influence. Thus, being precept-driven brings me influence.
Building a Wise Character
In short, wisdom makes me wise. For example, see Proverbs 3.35.
As such, that wise character overcomes my foolish overconfidence. Additionally, it brings me influence!
Therefore being precept-driven brings me influence.
Leadership Insight
So, why build capacity? I mean, doesn’t that mean I just have more work to do?
You know, no good deed goes unpunished! And, those who do get more to do! Ok, you get the picture.
Well then, why build capacity?
Because, basically, capacity building is an element of a balanced life. And, that balanced life is a source of influence.
Thus, if I make better use of my work hours I free up time for other activities. For instance, more time for family. Or, for my own professional development.
Personal Insight
Or, you can build capacity in order to write a blog!
Seriously, this blog takes ten or more hours each week in Bible study and writing.
I choose to write during the first hour of each weekday. In addition, I find blocks of weekend time for writing and study.
Separate from the blog, I spend three-to-four hours per week preparing a weekly Bible study for a group of adults. Some of those studies are posted in the Weekly Bible Study section of the blog site.
At the time of this post, I’m about four years into my study of Proverbs. You are reading the outcomes of that study as reflected in these blog posts.
Practically, I’ve found a way to combine my personal spiritual growth with my professional growth. This multi-year study of Proverbs has been the outlet for making that happen.
Of all the professional development I’ve participated in across a 50-year career, nothing has had greater impact on me – personally, professionally, and spiritually – than this study of Proverbs.
Some Elements of Capacity
Some elements of leadership capacity include the following:
First, learn to focus. Thus, as I learn to avoid distractions I am better able to focus my attention on the task at hand.
Second, set priorities. Therefore, leaders must make “first things first” because time isn’t an unlimited resource. Additionally, being aware of strategic priorities should help set priorities.
Third, lean on experience. As a leader accumulates experiential insights he or she should develop a longer list of items that move from special-and-complex to routine-and-in-the-wheelhouse.
Fourth, lighten the load. Leaders must delegate. And, say No. That’s right, NO! Or, stop being such a perfectionist (like me!) because sometimes you must let it go! And, use technology more effectively to boost productivity.
Fifth, block your calendar. Put time on your calendar for that which is most critical, then allow secondary items to fill in or simply drop off. Hence, schedule your priorities rather than prioritize your schedule.
If you have been in a leadership position for any length of time you’ve seen this list plus many other items added to it.
Thus, the end game here is to enjoy the benefits of being precept-driven because of outcomes such as capacity building and greater professional influence.
Remember, that increased capacity, in turn, makes for a more balance and rewarding personal, professional, and spiritual life.
As a result of that balance, the leader becomes more influential.
In short, being precept-driven brings me influence as a leader.
Thanks for visiting. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-young-38418110/