JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Key Element for Thriving Relationships is Pleasant words.
The use of pleasant words may involve the spreading of good news, words of encouragement, good manners, and/or a vision of hope.
Proverbs 16:21 says, “The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.”
Pleasant words cultivate an atmosphere where effective learning and spiritual growth can take place. That is because respect is in the room. A person will be much more willing to learn from someone who respects them than someone who does not.
Pleasant words are key elements for thriving relationships that honor God.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Moment Of Celebration reflects on the value of mentoring relationships.
While friendships are relationships often among peers, mentoring relationships tend to have wider age differences. It might be the case where an elderly Christian is grooming a younger Christian to a place of leadership, such as Paul’s relationship with Timothy in the Bible.
Or it may be a situation where one believer is preparing another believer to succeed their role, such as Elijah preparing Elisha to become a prophet.
Another excellent example of mentorship is the parent-child relationship, where the parent brings them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
The value of mentoring relationships can be found in the opportunity to pass the faith along from generation to generation.
Psalm 78:4 says, “We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.” Verse 7 says, “Then they would put their trust in God.”
The value of mentoring relationships is a reason to be glad in the Year of Celebration.
JOHN SHIRK – From Proverbs 23:12.
“Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.”
Recently, Lifeway Research surveyed nearly 3,000 churchgoers about their desire to honor Christ and their Bible study habits. 90 percent of respondents agreed that they desired to please and honor Jesus in all they do. However, when asked how often they read the Bible, 19 percent said “every day.”
If we were in school and wanted to get a good grade, we would get into some good habits to make that happen. We would show up for class. We would listen attentively. We would take notes. And we would study those notes so that our learning would increase.
Christianity is not just an academic exercise. It is a relationship with God, through faith in Jesus Christ. That relationship grows stronger as we know Jesus better. Ephesians 5:17 counsels us to “Understand what the Lord’s will is.” That is a benefit of careful Bible study. If we want to know how to honor God through our choices, we can approach God’s word with a student’s mind, willing to learn and grow into the likeness of Jesus.
Knowledge and application of God’s Word is a vital sign of a changed life in the Year of Transformation.
