1-3 “Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife. A prudent servant will rule over a disgraceful son and will share the inheritance as one of the family. The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart.”
Proverbs 17:1-3 (NIV)
CULTURE COUNTS. A right people mix is better than loads of amenities. Breeding a culture of respect and reflection always trumps a culture of cool entertainment coupled with strained feelings. Turn the sound down and fix relationships first. ("Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife." Proverbs 17:1)
DON’T COUNT YOURSELF OUT. Character wins more than you think. While you may believe that blood is thicker than water, character is thickest of all. God sees to it that good character eventually finds a way to be seated at a table of honor. ("A prudent servant will rule over a disgraceful son and will share the inheritance as one of the family." Proverbs 17:2)
COUNT ON THE STOVE TO BE ON – in God's kitchen. His fire doesn't go out. He loves to test, refine and purify hearts. He is totally committed to our improvement. That's why His fire stays lit and He brings the heat. So stay on the stove and let Him bake in wisdom and cook up greatness in you and through you. ("The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the heart." Proverbs 17:3)
Athlete, here is a prayer to offer up to the Lord today: LORD, help us build both a great personal and team culture. Don't let us count ourselves out when it comes to character. And may we welcome Your heat that purifies. Thank You so much for the wisdom and confidence You bring.
