From Proverbs 18.22 and 19.14, we learn that relationships are one way to find good from God. Thus, how I find good from God is to recognize that the relationships He provides are beneficial to me.
The Precept Explained
Finding good in life is good!
Similarly, I tend to find what I’m looking for in life.
Thus, findings requires seeking. As such, seek-find is another version of the sow-reap mental model.
Arguably, of all the good I find in life, nothing exceeds finding good from the Lord. Certainly, that should be true for a person of faith.
Some Good Things
Now, in Proverbs Solomon identifies several good things we find simply by seeking.
1). In Proverbs 3.4 I find good in the form of knowing what’s most essential. I find that good through a balanced life, as described in the prior verses.
2). Next, in Proverbs 16.20 I find good by dealing wisely with issues. My ability to behave wisely is linked in that verse to trusting the Lord.
3). Then, in Proverbs 18.22 I find good by finding a wife. Again, that good is linked to my spiritual life.
Unfortunately, I don’t find a companion verse in Proverbs that says finding a husband is good! No comment necessary!
An inheritance is from my earthly father, whereas a wife who acts wisely is from my heavenly Father. Proverbs 19.14 paraphrase
4). Finally, in Proverbs 19.8 I find good by building experiential insight. And, once again, good is a product of a sound character that comes from my spiritual nature.
Conversely, a perverse character “… finds no good …”, Proverbs 17.20. Instead, that person finds lots of problems.
Do I intentionally choose to find the good in people and in circumstances?
Find Good From the Lord
So then, how do I find good from the Lord? In short, I simply follow the list of “good” verses above.
First, I balance knowing and doing by focusing on the essential.
Second, I trust the Lord to the point that I behave wisely.
Third, I build character by learning from experiences as I reflect on what has happened.
Fourth, I deeply value the relationships that are given to me by the Lord. Why? Because at the end of the day people count for more that execution of strategy.
Leadership Insight
As it turns out, the principles for a good life are equally useful as principles for impactful leadership.
Thus, focus on what’s most essential. Then, behave wisely. And, learn from experiences. Also, value relationships.
When applied carefully, these principles impact organizational sustainability, such as identifying fundamental shifts in a market.
And, these fundamentals help improve decision quality.
Most importantly, these life principles remind an impactful leader to care deeply about others.
Apply This Today!
Therefore, how I find good from the Lord is to look for it!
I must replace my entitlement mentality with gratitude. Most critically, that attitude change begins at home!
Additionally, I must do the hard work of changing who I am inside by maintaining balance. Specifically, in moving factual knowledge into practical application by way of insight building.
Consequently, an insightful leader recognizes the ultimate value of personal relationships.
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com