From Monthly Newsletter
Without pressure from the wind, a kite never flies.
Without straining for the goal, runners get no prize.
Without sand to irritate, a pearl could not grow.
Without effort from the hand, needles could not sew.
Without hindrance from the rocks, a brook could not sing.
And without April showers, no flowers in the spring.
Devotional
James 1:2-4 (NKJV)
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Someone said, “If it doesn’t kill you, it makes you stronger.” From this passage we learn the path to becoming a mature leader.
First, we must accept hardships as an opportunity and “count it all joy….”
Second, we must recognize the value of “various trials” because they expand the potential for our growth.
Third, we must embrace the value of “patience.” By allowing patience to “have its perfect work,” we can arrive at a “complete” maturity.
A Time for Rhyme
Poetry is a wonderful tool to help place memory markers along the path of inspiration. Like lyrical lemon drops for the mind, rhyming words arouse the mental tastebuds and punctuate the adventure of learning.
I’m working on an ebook that will be entitled, “A Time for Rhyme, Leadership.” This book will contain 12 of my poems and 12 study guides to encourage leaders. The poem above is part of this collection. Although this book is not yet available as an ebook, if you would like to have a printed copy you can send a contribution (any amount that will help cover printing and postage) to the “Make It Real!” Ministry, PO Box 682, Paragould, AR 72451. Hard copies are printed on white 8.5 x 11 paper, perfect for a 3-ring notebook. Be sure to designate the book title you are requesting.