Guidance in finding balance in our lives

                     

Have you ever questioned your actions amidst the chaos of constant busyness? If you have a Bible, you'll discover that some of the answers you seek are timeless and remarkably relevant to modern lives. Let's look at two relevant scripture quotes. 

Romans 12:8 – “If it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is to give, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”

Proverbs 1:5-7 states: "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance— for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

In the recently published e-book “Become the Boss of You," we explore what makes a good boss and show how to develop the qualities needed to get there. Respect and encouragement are topics. A balanced life and how to control ourselves are also central. That extremely concise segment of the book concludes the question of what makes a good boss with a quote that can be used as a tool in our busy age.

The key message of the quote is that aspiring leaders must not allow themselves to be consumed by distractions. This is particularly relevant in our fast-paced, noisy world. Leadership wisdom is intricately woven throughout the Bible, and by reflecting on a few select passages, we can gain valuable insights to guide our leadership journey. Let's take a moment to reflect on Romans 12:8.

This verse beautifully encapsulates the essence of respect and encouragement, a lesson we should all take to heart. It speaks of giving and doing, of making respect an integral part of our personality, and of the journey towards becoming more encouraging. When we develop these qualities, we attract people to us, for one of the fundamental spiritual laws of life is that we receive what we give.

As you uplift others, they uplift you. Respect and encouragement happen when we understand the value of others. The value of a human being is a beautiful thing to witness, yet it is all around us. We will be truly blessed if we learn how to see and develop this quality. What truly separates Christ's teachings from others is the unity of humanity—the worth of being a human. As we develop the habit of respecting others and encouraging their contributions, our world becomes increasingly positive.

These qualities also build trust and strengthen relationships. When we have these habits, people become attracted to us because they want appreciation and affirmation. It's a good plan to increase these qualities and make them habitual. After all, they are what we want from others.

Another quality or skill developed in the book “Become the Boss of You” is the tool of open-mindedness. Improving the qualities mentioned above is much easier when we are willing to honor others' perspectives.

Romans 12:8 also indicates the need for a balanced life and self-control. "If it is giving, then give generously" speaks of giving back to others. Balance is crucial in our life. Giving to others is a great joy, but we must also care for ourselves, which is hard work. This balance avoids burnout or, more importantly, resentment. Negativity and resentment are not mindsets we want to live in. That is tough sledding that leads to anxiety and depression.

This verse in Romans also talks about leading diligently. This is the implication of self-control or poise, if you will. Effective leadership requires managing one's impulses, emotions, and actions. Gaining self-control allows a boss to make thoughtful decisions. In time, they will plan and focus on their goals and maintain integrity even in challenging situations.

It is a quality of self-control that is the quality of a balanced life. Balance is the ability to win in multiple areas of life: time management, finances, and personal habits are just a few of the biggies that come to mind. This verse to the Romans is an excellent source of leadership training if you read it right. If we have generosity and self-control, that is balance and effective leadership.

Respect and encouragement are essential to effective communication. What business leader has not been bombarded with classes and information on communication? This central component of leadership is aligned tightly with respect and encouragement. Try to motivate someone who does not respect you. Try to motivate a group that you do not communicate with. Now, that is tough sledding because you generally get nowhere.

As you uplift others, they uplift you. Respect and encouragement happen when we understand the value of others. The value of a human being is a beautiful thing to witness, yet it is all around us. We will be truly blessed if we learn how to see and develop this quality. What truly separates Christ's teachings from others is the unity of humanity—the worth of being a human. As we develop the habit of respecting others and encouraging their contributions, our world becomes increasingly positive.

These qualities also build trust and strengthen relationships. When we have these habits, people become attracted to us because they want appreciation and affirmation. It's a good plan to increase these qualities and make them habitual. After all, they are what we want from others.

Another quality or skill developed in the book “Become the Boss of You” is the tool of open-mindedness. Improving the qualities mentioned above is much easier when we are willing to honor others' perspectives.

Romans 12:8 also indicates the need for a balanced life and self-control. "If it is giving, then give generously" speaks of giving back to others. Balance is crucial in our life. Giving to others is a great joy, but we must also care for ourselves, which is hard work. This balance avoids burnout or, more importantly, resentment. Negativity and resentment are not mindsets we want to live in. That is tough sledding that leads to anxiety and depression.

This verse in Romans also talks about leading diligently. This is the implication of self-control or poise, if you will. Effective leadership requires managing one's impulses, emotions, and actions. Gaining self-control allows a boss to make thoughtful decisions. In time, they will plan and focus on their goals and maintain integrity even in challenging situations.

It is a quality of self-control that is the quality of a balanced life. Balance is the ability to win in multiple areas of life: time management, finances, and personal habits are just a few of the biggies that come to mind. This verse to the Romans is an excellent source of leadership training if you read it right. If we have generosity and self-control, that is balance and effective leadership.

Respect and encouragement are essential to effective communication. What business leader has not been bombarded with classes and information on communication? This central component of leadership is aligned tightly with respect and encouragement. Try to motivate someone who does not respect you. Try to motivate a group that you do not communicate with. Now, that is tough sledding because you generally get nowhere. Next, we turn to the teachings we get in Proverbs.        

                    

In this passage, we do not hear the words respect or encouragement, Yet it does have many related themes. The call to listen, learn, and seek guidance implies humility and openness. I remind you that Become the Boss of You does not mention open-mindedness in the small section “What Makes a Good Boss,” but it is enormous throughout the book's first chapter.

The verse in Proverbs shows respect towards wisdom and those who work toward having it and giving it to others. Encouragement is inferred from the emphasis on seeking understanding and valuing instruction, as these actions support personal growth and development.

Also, "the fear of the Lord" is reverence or respect for divine wisdom and guidance. In this sense, the passage underscores the importance of acknowledging and honoring God and wisdom principles. Humility, seeking wisdom, and revering guidance align with respect for others and an environment that encourages growth.

Proverbs 1:5-7 also indirectly tackles the ideas of balance and self-control by emphasizing wisdom and learning. The passage encourages individuals to listen, learn, and seek guidance, suggesting the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to acquiring knowledge.

The balance of seeking wisdom and how to apply it effectively in one's life. We grow by thought and action. One needs the other. This also implies self-control since we must exercise discipline and moderation to pursue wisdom and understanding.

The idea that "the fear of the Lord" is the beginning of knowledge can be interpreted as a call to exercise self-control and reverence in one's relationship with higher principles or divine guidance. Self-control is essential in cultivating a mindset of humility, respect for wisdom and instruction, and moral and ethical principles. There is a power in morality.

Proverbs 1:5-7 may not say balance or self-control directly as it was not the language of the day. The emphasis on seeking wisdom, guidance, and reverence suggests maintaining a balanced and disciplined approach to life and learning.

Peace,  Joe Pikul