Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Shhh. (02/18/10)
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TITLE: A Time To Keep Quiet | Previous Challenge Entry
By Michael Chu
02/21/10 -
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I just knew it when I catch myself in the aforesaid corrupting state of dung that it wouldn’t do my physical health any good, either. As a matter of experience, if I don’t change tack and do a turnaround, things would worsen as I yield to the obliging downward spiral. With hindsight, I figure that the best response would be to rein in my tongue when I am mad with my situation, change my self-talk, and pray like never before! Yup, it’s better safe now than sorry later, without exception.
When we are willing to address our bad hair days objectively, after the emotional drenching and outburst, we would realise that they are often caused by imbalances in our life such as: too much work and not spending enough time with our loved ones; shortfall in finances; poor relationships; or a neglect of our Quiet Time with God.
By having identified our problem, we would have halved it. We then cast our burdens unto the LORD, and allow the Holy Spirit to teach us His way and lead us towards a solution that endures.
Secondly, we could also encounter trials in life, which God allows for, so that our faith could be purified as fine gold. God is a good Father who chastens and helps to iron out our character flaws. As my Pastor would say, we need to have thick skin and thin hearts.
So, I learn during such trying times to submit myself to the LORD and place my confidence in Him with the knowledge that He cares for me – so much so that the very hairs of my head are all numbered! (See Matthew 10:30 and Luke 12:7) All my ranting, murmuring or complaining would not improve the circumstances I face when it is all part of God’s will for me. As God is for me, I should hold my tongue at the onset. Then, by the by, learn to give thanks in everything (not for everything) as I regain my courage to trust Him. And, as we honour Him, He will honour us. “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)
Thirdly, perhaps we could add that we ought not to criticise or speak ill of others, including fellow believers. When we have nothing good to say, a good policy would be to say nothing (lest we sin)! Our walk with the LORD is primarily up close and personal while we do not neglect the needs of others as He so alerts us. As Jesus said to Peter concerning John, his fellow disciple, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.” John 21:22b (NKJV) It’s a thin line. But as we walk closely with Jesus, we would know when to just mind our own business and keep working on our faith-walk, hearing and obeying His bidding.
Our words are powerful. In parting, this Spider-man credo seems apt and rapt: “With great power there must come great responsibility".
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I'd have loved for you to develop the "bad hair" analogy ever further--to use an actual time when you experienced one (perhaps even with a humorous touch) to connect with the points you were making.
Nicely written.