Sadly, most religions have left off emphasizing these three qualities. In the Christian church, self-sacrifice is often touted and called for when it is necessary to keep the machine oiled. And, of course, generosity is often emphasized as long as you are being "generous towards God."
However, the three here mentioned in the quote would serve us well if we were to develop these as character traits in each individual.
To a few people, pigs are cute; but to the vast majority they are less than pretty. Try as you will, there is just no way to dress up a pig and make it adorable.
Gold is pretty; but not on a pig. Flowers are pretty; but not on a pig. In such a setting, they lose their attractiveness.
There are probably numerous believers who have already turned me off, based on the graphic to the left. Some have continued reading to find something to correct me on. YOU, however, are attracted by the truth of this statement, even if you don't fully comprehend it. So, read on.
The way of the LORD is a refuge for the blameless, but it is the ruin of those who do evil.(Pro. 10:29 NIV)
There is so much in this verse that we should take time to consider; but I won't do that. I'll simply focus on the two possible meanings that we could use to apply this to our lives and beliefs.
Have you ever been around someone who talks too much? How do we know what "too much" is? Is it "too much" simply because I am tired of listening? Is it "too much" because I don't like the subject matter? Is it "too much" because I can't get a word in? How much is "too much?" Good question. Unfortunately, there are no hard and fast rules governing how much talking one is allowed before "crossing the line."
Dale has been sharing the practical application of the truths from the Bible for more than 40 years. He has often said, "People know how to shout the victory on Sunday, but can't figure out how to handle Monday." This blog is an attempt to help God's people on that journey.
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