Wisdom for Living

My father in-law is most likely one of the wisest men I know. At least to the extent that I know him. Often his life is a mystery kept wrapped deep within his heart. However, when he does unwrap a portion he exposes a life of deep contentment.

As my wife was growing up, and still to this day, my father in-law had a tendency to communicate truth to his nine children through "message boards."  He would paint a saying or axiom on a piece of wood and post it on the hillside, in direct view, out the dining room widow. When the family was eating or playing games around the table, those words were always visible.

Naturally, as kids are prone to do, they would scoff at some of his witticisms, however most of the children and grandchildren can quote several of them to this day and comment on how they have affected their life.

One that my wife and I reflect on often is "Do Not Criticize, Condemn or Complain." It may go without saying, that my wife can practice that with ease. On the other hand, I jump in to those three practices with both feet!

That particular saying is like a double-edged sword. It can be applied to the words of the wisdom writer who said, "Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray." (Prov. 10:17 ESV)

My rationale can be laid out in this manner. Heeding the "three Cs" is like instruction that keeps one on the path of disciplined living. Bitterness is often the fruit of criticizing, condemning, and complaining. No one wins when bitterness is in the game.

The second edge is "reproof." If there is not a measure of critical analysis, condemnation for wrong living, behavior, or speech - and criticism that brings positive reflection, then a variety of things may run amuck.

Of course, balance is the key. And having a valid role that allows the exercise of those "C" characteristics is important.

Many of us do not have that valid role. We simply enjoy criticizing, condemning and complaining. Somehow it puts us in a superior position to those, or that which we are assaulting.  Oh my.

Father, I confess my penchant for the three Cs. My desire to find in them fodder for fulfilling my own weaknesses. Forgive me and teach me to hold a quiet tongue or silent keys if words cannot be laid down that glorify You and build up the body of Christ.