Things We Should Strive For!

The bookstore is full of books that tell you what you need to do to live a successful life. There are all kinds of self-help books, and as many groupies that offer you the opportunity to gain fortune, fame, and wonderful feelings. Anyone who has ever gone on a diet, begins the process with the aim in mind that all of their weight loss problems will be over. And yet, anyone who has lived past the diet knows that is just not true. The same effort it takes to accomplish a goal, is pretty much the same effort it takes to maintain that goal. 

Solomon’s wisdom tells us in Proverbs 16:32 (MSG):

Moderation is better than muscle, self-control better than political power. 

When all is said and done, the best way to approach a mountain is taking your time, one step at a time. While there may be those miracle cures that promise a quick-fix, it is for sure they won’t last. That twenty pounds that went like a flash, will come back with a fury and add some more with it!

The wisest man who ever lived outside of Jesus knew that of all the characteristics we should strive for, moderation was one, and self-control was another. Perhaps weight loss is not your trial, another translation of this verse says:

It is better to be a patient man than a mighty warrior, better to be someone who controls his temper than someone who conquers a city.(The Voice)

Patience can be a test for all of us depending on what the situation is. Also, controlling our temper can be another test, whether we outwardly explode, or inwardly fester, this can be one of life’s greatest challenges.  

Thankfully, we have a helper:

I​‘m telling you these things while I’m still living with you. The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught.John 14:26-27(The Voice)​

Maria