Weekly Thought – November 28, 2017
Fred consistently focused on uniqueness. He never waned in his disciplined approach to operating from his strengths. He found “doing what only he could do best” was the optimum use of his time and energy. This week’s questions help you probe. The question is for you. The answer is a quick, lightning round response from Fred with no prior notice.
We at BWF think of you, your encouragement, and your support throughout the year. As we enter the last few weeks, please know we are giving thanks for you. As you do your year-end giving, we would certainly appreciate consideration. Everything that is given goes directly to the furthering of our work.
Personal Inventory
1) What point of brilliance do I have that gets favorable attention? When students used to ask me how they could get ahead in their careers I would say, “Be good in every part of your work, but brilliant in one so you can attract attention.” Getting noticed when starting out is one of the most difficult problems we face. My ability to do public speaking got me early recognition. And many people assume if you can speak well, you can think well. Of course, that isn’t always so.
2) What spiritual disciplines have I found helpful? My best spiritual disciplines have come from associations. There have been four or five individuals who have greatly contributed to my desire to pray, understand scripture, and be of service to the Master. In my nineties, I am also learning much from my adult children.
3) When do I do my best work: under a deadline, for ego satisfaction, with a sense of responsibility, or when it creates energy? Personally, I do my best work when I become conscious of my responsibility. I want that responsibility and fulfillment to be part of my self-respect.
4) Am I waiting to do something significant in my life? It is a mistake to think we can hold back our first class performance for the “big events.” The Bible says faithfulness in little things precedes faithfulness in the big ones. Unless you are doing the routine activities, you are kidding yourself about being ready for the special things. Jack Nicklaus, the golfer, found that he could not play the big tournaments without keeping his game up in the regular events. Every task demands our best.
5) What was I worrying about this time last year? I do not remember what was bothering me this time last year. Worry is a pernicious habit. As a young man building a career with a wife and young child I confronted it and wrote three words down which have been a lifetime motto: “Wait to Worry.” I once read 80% of what we worry about today will never come to pass. If I can wait for the facts then I don’t have to worry. The facts will help me construct a helpful plan. Worry only dulls my ability to find a solution.
6) Does difficulty make me bitter or better? In hard times I have the choice of becoming bitter or better. When we become angry at our circumstances, particularly if that anger is focused toward God, we can become cynical. When we are challenged by our circumstances, and understand the freedom of trusting God, we grow. We always have a choice of a negative or positive attitude.
This week think about: 1) How can I apply “wait to worry?” 2) Who can help me clearly recognize my area of brilliance? 3) What steps am I taking to strengthen my spiritual disciplines?
Words of Wisdom: “Wait to Worry.”
Wisdom from the Word: “And which of you by worrying can add even one hour to his life?” (Matthew 6:27 NET Bible)