Learning

Pastor Chuck Swindoll truly has many great Insights for Living (pun intended ;-) ) On his pastor's blogsite (link), he gave a list of things that he has learned in his 50 years of ministry. With all the experience he's had and the success of his ministries, when he speaks about what he has learned, I take note; for, I know that I can absolutely learn and benefit from what he has learned. Following are what he listed: I’ve learned that I should tell people how I feel about them now, not later. I’ve learned that things I’m not even aware of are being noticed and remembered. I’ve learned that being real is a lot better than looking pious. I’ve learned that when you “fit,” most things flow . . . they don’t have to be forced. I’ve learned that it doesn’t pay to talk someone into or out of a big decision. I’ve learned that days of maintenance are far more in number than days of magnificence. I’ve learned that some people aren’t going to change, no matter what. I’ve learned that I have seldom felt badly for things I did not say. I’ve learned that perception overshadows reality. I’ve learned that time spent with my family is a good investment. I’ve learned that grace is worth the risk. I’ve learned to stop saying “never” or “always” when it comes to the future. I’ve learned that thinking theologically pays off, big time. I’ve learned that some things are worth the sweat. I’ve learned to give credit where credit is due. Finally, I’ve learned that you can’t beat having fun. I look at his list, and I find that there are things I could improve on: telling people how I feel about them, thinking theologically, and having fun. I'm also encouraged that I've learned some of the same lessons aleady: Often I'm not aware of what others notice, to be real, not to have to "force" anything or any big decisions, that some people aren't going to change, when to keep quiet, perception overshadowing reality, spending time with family, exercising grace, avoid "never" and "always", know what's worth the sweat, and giving credit where it's due. Overall, I like the reminder that "days of maintenance are far more in number than days of magnificence." In fact, I haven't had many days of "magnificence". But, I'm encouraged to persist in my "days of maintenance". To keep going and to keep striving for excellence. Pastor Chuck says "Staying faithful pays great dividends"; and that's what I'm counting on! That's what my life verse says; and that why I seek to be the faithful servant, wanting to hear the master say "Well done!" at the end.