Righteous & Prosperous

Since righteous people are not always prosperous we are to regard adversity as discipline from God - and not despise it. (See Proverbs 3:11-12). We often think of discipline as punishment - but they are not the same thing. An athlete who trains well experiences adversity, pain and usually some suffering. We say he is a disciplined athlete though - and we understand that it leads to his success as an athlete. In the same way, God cares deeply about our development. The adversity that He allows in our lives is meant to train us. In that way we experience God's discipline - which is crucial to our success.

Arrogance

There is an incompatibility between blind arrogance and the presence of God. Proud people tend to depend on themselves instead of God. This causes God's guiding influences to leave their lives. When God's presence is welcome, there is no room for pride or arrogance. He makes us aware of our true selves (and of course He apposes the proud).

Wise People

Are you a wise person? You can tell by how you respond to criticism. A fool will have a quick retort - to defend, rationalize, justify, blame or deflect. But a wise one will listen and evaluate the merits of the rebuke (even with prayer).

Love & Faithfulness

Love and faithfulness are important character qualities. They're not just the basis for relationships. Both involve actions as well as attitudes. A love person acts loyally and responsibly. A faithful person not only believes the truth, but also works for what is right. Our lives reveal whether we are truly loving and faithful.

Living for Yourself

When enough people live for themselves with little concern for how their actions and choices affect others, the resulting moral rot contaminates the entire society (or nation). Put another way, the "me generation" had definite consequences for society.

God's Blessings

The greater the presence of righteousness (obedience to God), the clearer the examples of God's blessings. This principle works equally in the life of a nation, church or individual. The more we first seek God's righteousness and His kingdom, the more we will see everything else taken care of by God. (See Matthew 6:25-33).

Spiritual Vision

Spiritual vision is our capacity to see clearly what God wants us to do - and to see the world from His perspective. But self-serving desires, interests and goals cloud that vision. Serving God is the best way to restore it.

So what can you do to sharpen your spiritual vision today?