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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Shrewdness (03/07/05)
We are told in 1 John 2:6 (NIV) that ‘If we claim to live in Him, we must walk like Jesus did.’ What’s the definition of ‘shrewdness’? (Showing or possessing intelligence, insight, sound judgment and having a correct assessment of the situation.) Jesus did this with religious and political leaders as well as just ordinary fishermen. He was shrewd in all walks of life. What’s this mean for people like us?

We too must show these attributes to others, not because of pride, or self-fulfillment, but to glorify Him through our lives, which may be the only Bible others see or as close to church as they approach. This does require many Christ-like traits such as humbleness, love, forgiveness, and firmness for what belief He stands for.

The world may see shrewdness as a negative quality, but like in the parable of the talents, the man who showed a return of 10 times what He entrusted to him, was rewarded with praise and much greater responsibility. God has given each one of us abilities, which are gifts we are to use wisely. That includes the epilepsy I have. Reconcile ALL things are gifts from God with Romans 8:28 where we are told not some, but ALL things work for good according to His purpose. (Certain people with epilepsy and financial hardships that I led to Christ as a result are certainly glad that I was willing to use this gift for their sakes.)

Shrewdness would be to make a list of the gifts God has given you and then next to it to write down how you are going to wisely use that gift for His glory by sharing it with others. The person who is truly after God’s own heart, wanting to ‘walk as He did’ will not allow ‘busy-sickness’ or ‘hurry sickness’ to crowd out this time and effort, as Satan would love for it to happen. Don’t underestimate his shrewdness. Just remember that His shrewdness is far greater and will bless your efforts.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
donna robinson
03/16/05
I've been reading today and see how many wanted to tie in shrewdness with God and I think this is the first one that really made the point. I felt for the first time that yes, that's right! Before i think I saw it in more of a quick witted way. Interesting read
karen McLamb
03/16/05
This is all right! This is very good, you took your time, with it.
Phyllis Inniss 
03/16/05
I like the way you showed shrewdness in both Jesus and Satan, but that Jesus puts His to good use while we know what the other does with his. I also like the way you used yours to help others, which is a gift in itself.
L.M. Lee
03/17/05
I agree with Donna, you captured the concept of living "shrewdly" to protect our walk with Christ