Sage Advice

Over my working life, I have been blessed, though I may not have realized it at the time, with a couple of older men who became friends and really, mentors of mine. It wasn’t anything formal, just a kinship, friendship, bond that developed over time.

In their own way, they poured insight, wisdom and life into me each time I would see them, meet with them, work with them on a project, or think through and pray through the next steps of life.

One is a pastor friend that I still talk with and interact with from time to time. Less now than previously. But I know that he is still there to lend sage advice, hold me up in prayer, or will be at my door step should I ever be in real need. His insight and compassion have given me critical insight in making some tough life decisions.

One is a retired banker friend. Once my boss, whom I developed a friendship with on a basketball court during a lunchtime YMCA pickup game. Over the years I have been able to maintain a relationship with him when I visit his part of the state. I’ve been able to pick his brain, laugh at his quick wit, and take in his sage advice over the years. His insight has helped me with critical work decisions over my career.

I’m grateful that these two men have been in my life.

Paul is giving the same sort of sage advice here that my two friends have given and would give me. Wisdom from lessons learned and insights developed. Advice for us all to hear and to heed.

“Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. Show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work. And live peacefully with each other.

Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.

See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people.

Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil.” 
- 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22 NLT

Sage advice indeed...

Keep the Faith... Carpe Diem