Dear Colleague,
There are two approaches we can take in accomplishing the work God has assigned us:
Our way:+ His way:
Beat around the bush Just say ‘yes’ and ‘no.’ When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong. (Matt.5:37Msg)
Run around in circles Because the Lord God helps me, I will not be dismayed; therefore, I have set my face like flint to do his will, and I know that I will triumph. (Isa. 50:7 Living) (See Lk. 9:51, 62; 1 Cor. 15:58; Col. 1:23)
Jump to conclusions What a shame–yes, how stupid!–to decide before knowing the facts! (Pro. 18:13 Living) (See Jos. 9; Pro. 18:17)
Throw caution to the wind A wise man thinks ahead; a fool doesn’t and even brags about it!The wise man looks ahead. The fool attempts to fool himself and won’t face facts. (Pro. 13:16; 14:8 Living)
Fly off the handle A quick-tempered man starts fights; a cool-tempered man tries to stop them The man of few words and settled mind is wise; therefore, even a fool is thought to be wise when he is silent. It pays him to keep his mouth shut. (Pro.15:18;17:27,28 Living) (See Act. 24:25; Gal. 5:22,23; Tit. 1:8; 2 Pet. 1:6)
Climb the corporate ladder Are you seeking great things for yourself? Don’t do it!Godliness with contentment is great gain. (Jer. 45:5a; 1 Tim. 6:6b) (See 2 Ki. 5:19-27;Ps. 75:6,7; Phil. 2:3,4)
Run away from your problems A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance. (Pro. 28:13) (See Gen. 3:12,13;4:9)
Jump through the hoops Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Gal.1:10) (See Pro. 29:25)
+ Adapted from Leadershipwith a human touch June 26, 2001