From Matthew 13.20-21 I learn that seeds don’t root deeply in thin, rocky soil. Likewise, blind spots in my life indicate shallowness. Unfortunately, shallow-mindedness is deadly! Pay attention! The precepts don’t thrive in a shallow character. Matthew 13.18, 20-21 paraphrase The Precept Explained You don’t know what you don’t know! Hence, the need for outside […]
According to Matthew 13.18-19, narrow-mindedness is deadly! So, don’t be hard-headed and inflexible because everyone suffers as a result. Pay attention! The precepts don’t take root in a stubborn character. Matthew 13.18-19 paraphrase The Precept Explained I limit what I can contribute as a professional when I will not listen to good advice. Likewise, I […]
According to Proverbs 2.9, discernment impacts my decisions and thus, my behavior. As such, discernment fuels sound decisions. The Precept Explained Discernment is an outcome. First, of reverence, Proverbs 1.7 and 2.5. Then, of growing wisdom, Proverbs 1.2 and 2.2. In turn, discernment affects my decisions. And, my behavior, Proverbs 2.9. But especially in how […]
Proverbs 2.5 is the “Then” of the preceding “If” statements. In this case, the outcome is discernment in regard to reverence. As such, experiential insight brings discernment. Absorbing the precepts and building experiential insight allows me to discern reverence. Proverbs 2.5 paraphrase The Precept Explained Three “ifs” and one “then.” That’s the pattern of reasoning […]
Proverbs 23.2-3 is a warning. Specifically, to be self-aware and discerning in social settings. Remember, discern before you eat! Be self-aware enough to know your own weaknesses. Also, be discerning enough to recognize deceit. Proverbs 23.2-3 paraphrase The Precept Explained I must control my desires when the opportunity is “too good to be true”! Hence, […]