Peace in a “food, cold” world

A story is told about a young man who joined an order of monks. 

This religious community took a vow of silence. 

He was allowed to speak two words to his superior, once a year.

At the end of his first year he reported to his superior, “Food, cold.”

At the end of the second year he said, “Bed, hard."

After a third year he announced, “I quit.” 

To this, his superior said, “Well, I’m not surprised. 

You’ve done nothing but complain since you got here.”

I wonder, does an attitude of criticism develop in me more love, joy and peace? 

If not, is there a better way to think?

"...whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

“…and the God of peace will be with you.”

Philliipians 4: 8-9

Judgement of self and others

Welcome to my first blog of the new year. Why the topic of judgments today? Because criticisms are everywhere, it seems.

Is it edifying for us to listen to all the critics on radio, t.v., and news sites, etc? Is this not a new pandemic?

I want to keep daily posts brief for us. This topic will be continued daily then, for awhile.

Here is a quote from David Jeremiah: “Public criticism is fickle…and should not be overvalued…” (Even) “self-judement is too partial to be fair, too blind to be accurate and too indulgent to be helpful. Self-examination is important but dwelling inordinately on one’s identity, actions and motives must be avoided.”

Another wrote:

“…it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you…I do not even judge myself…but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me.”

I Cor 4:2

To be continued tomorrow, friends. God’s peace and blessings to you.