We can grow as a result of difficult circumstances. However, we can also be refined by hard conversations.
Learning From Life
Character development is difficult. It demands that we be patient as we learn from life experiences such as failures, mistakes, and challenging circumstances.
When we persist and learn, we build deeper character. At the same time, we develop experiential insights that are added to our toolbox of life skills.
Proverbs 27.21 compares character development to the refinement of precious metals. Similarly, Proverbs 25.4 notes how the refining process burns away impurities such as our character flaws. Likewise, Proverbs 17.3 says the Lord is the one who “… tries the hearts …” thus guides our character refinement.
Our character is refined by the heat of life experiences. Proverbs 27.21 paraphrase
Learning From A Friend or Mentor
Beyond life circumstances, wise counsel is also an important learning tool to guide personal and professional growth. That mentoring, perhaps as part of a close friendship, is where “Iron sharpens iron …” Proverbs 27.17.
Now, some of those interactions with a mentor or friend are hard conversations because we’re hearing things that must change in our life if we’re to grow. However, if we have a growth mindset, we’ll be refined by those difficult interactions.
According to Proverbs 27.21, our positive responses to life’s refining, such as those hard conversations, is both beneficial (“… furnace for gold …”) and praise-worthy (“… so is a man to his praise”). Thus, a vital part of being a learner is being a good listener.
Who I am impacts how well I learn. Likewise, how well I learn impacts who I am! proverbsforprofessionals.net
Apply This Today!
Hard conversations are an important aspect of our character development, so be intentional about seeking out those opportunities for building insights.
In order for iron to sharpen iron the friend or mentor must have learned from difficult life experiences so he/she has experiential insights that are of value, thus are sharable.
Clearly, the heat of circumstances is easy to write about but difficult to deal with in the moment. Hence, the need for us to change our perspective if we’re to see beyond the immediate
My Personal Experience: When seeking a mentor, look for someone who has been where you’re going. Before I became a business school dean I interacted with, and sought the advice of, others who were already deans. Similarly, as an interim dean I regularly got advice from sitting deans so I could make appropriate decisions. In short, don’t take advice from someone who hasn’t been where you’re going!
A Question to Consider
What are some indicators in your life that you’re learning from both events and from wise counsel?
I’m Dale Young. My posts share the balanced life to build wise character and guide wise behavior.
To interact with me, use the links in the Contact Me tab of this blog.
