When James Garfield, who would later become President of the United States, served as principal of Hiram College in Ohio, a father inquired whether the curriculum could be simplified to allow his son a quicker path to graduation. "Certainly," Garfield responded. "However, it ultimately depends on what you wish to make of your boy. When God intends to create an oak tree, it takes a hundred years; but when He aims to grow a squash, only two months are needed." (Source Unknown)
This tale illustrates a profound truth about character, spiritual maturity, and the value of time and effort. In our fast-paced world, we often favor immediate results over the slow and steady process of growth. However, true wisdom lies in understanding that the most enduring and valuable qualities can't be rushed. They are cultivated over time, much like the majestic oak tree that stands strong and tall after many years.
Understanding the True Worth
Proverbs 31:10-31; James 3:13-4:8; Mark 9:30-37
In a world that measures worth by material possessions and accomplishments, the scriptures of Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13-4:8 and Mark 9:30-37 provide a counter-cultural perspective on the essence of true worth.
In the passage of Proverbs 31, we discover a woman whose true value is not found in wealth or societal approval, but in her fear of the Lord. Her heart's devotion to God reflects in her virtuous character, strong wisdom, and profound kindness. It is her robust, deep-rooted relationship with God that renders her "far more precious than jewels."
Juxtaposed with this, the gospel of Mark 9:30-37 offers a glimpse into the teachings of Jesus, who defines greatness not by status or self-importance but by humility and service. He expounds that the path to becoming first is to be the "last of all and servant of all." This echoes the life of the Proverbs 31 woman whose diligent service, born out of love for God, solidifies her genuine greatness.
This harmony of character and humility is further illuminated in the book of James, which looks into the distinction between earthly wisdom and wisdom from above. Wisdom in its true form is embodied by purity, peace-loving actions, considerateness, submission, mercy, and genuineness – all traits that contribute to a peaceful and harmonious existence. This wisdom, like true worth, is derived from a sincere and devoted relationship with God.
When we look at scripture, it becomes clear that true worth stems from an inner transformation influenced by our relationship with God. It is in our humility, our service, our marker of good character that we find true worth. It is in seeking wisdom from above and embodying it in our day-to-day lives that we discover our priceless value in the eyes of God.
Beyond Appearances
Appearances often dictate perceptions. Our societal structure conditions us to make snap judgments based on what meets the eye, affecting our reactions to a broad array of contexts, be it policies, civil order, or even virtual reality. However, it's important to remember that appearances can be deceiving. The Bible offers this stance in 1 Samuel 16:7, it says, "The Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." This passage emphasizes that true worth is not found in external appearances but in the heart and character.
In a world driven by materialism and instant gratification, it's easy to get caught up in surface-level comparisons, leading us to overlook the inner qualities of an individual or ourselves. This can result in feelings of inadequacy or a false sense of superiority, both of which hinder our growth and relationships.
Consider Southwest Airlines, for instance. Founded back in 1967, its success story is a testament to the power of looking beyond appearances. Herb Kelleher, the founder, didn't focus on profit alone; instead, he prioritized employee well-being, cultivating an environment of respect and growth. This people-first strategy led to a motivated workforce and remarkable customer service, ensuring sustained business success for over 46 years.
True character, while invisible, is the stalwart pillar of greatness. It's not what we publicly display, but the private consistency of our actions and decisions in alignment with our values that truly defines us. Just like an oak tree, character takes time to nurture, yet its strength and stability once developed are undeniable.
Practical Steps to Cultivate True Wisdom
Seek God's Guidance
Prayer and meditation are vital in seeking God's guidance in our lives. By aligning ourselves with His will, we gain wisdom that surpasses human understanding. This spiritual connection provides clarity and direction in our decisions and actions. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Establishing a regular practice of seeking God through prayer and meditation can help you navigate life's complexities with divine insight.
Surround Yourself with Mentors
Learning from those who embody wisdom and virtue can significantly impact our growth. Mentors provide valuable insights, encouragement, and accountability. They help us stay focused on what truly matters and inspire us to strive for excellence. The Bible also imparts the importance of seeking wise counsel in Proverbs 15:22: "Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed." Surrounding ourselves with mentors who reflect the godly qualities we aspire to will help us cultivate true wisdom and reinforce the principles discussed, such as humility and service.
Reflect and Evaluate
Regular self-reflection and evaluation are essential for personal growth. Taking time to assess our actions, motives, and progress allows us to make necessary adjustments and continue on the path of wisdom. James 1:23-25 advises, "Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like." It's a continuous process of learning and improvement, ensuring that our external actions are consistent with our internal values. By reflecting on biblical teachings and evaluating our spiritual journey, we can remain steadfast in pursuing true worth as depicted by the Proverbs 31 woman and the teachings of Jesus.
Conclusion
As we reflect on our pursuits, it's important to ask ourselves some meaningful questions. Are we chasing after fleeting accolades that others may recognize, or are we nurturing lasting virtues that withstand the test of time? Like travelers navigating through vast landscapes, we each carry our own burdens and make our own choices. Will we seek approval from the world around us, or will we anchor ourselves in the timeless wisdom that comes from a deeper understanding? The choice is ours to make, and the rewards are beyond compare. Let's strive for true worth, not simply in appearance but in character – a genuine greatness that shines from within.
Prayer
Lord, grant us the serenity to seek true worth beyond appearances, and the wisdom to cultivate our character in alignment with Your divine guidance. May our actions reflect Your love and our hearts be anchored in Your eternal truth.
Commentaires