As I was reading Proverbs 22 the other day, I noticed three characteristics given that embody a person of influence. They are pulled from verses 11 and 29 that identify someone who has “the king as his friend” and someone who will “stand before kings.” Here are the three characteristics:
- Loves purity of heart.
- Speaks graciously.
- Is skillful in his field of work.
As I’ve been pondering these verses, I’ve realized that not only are they characteristics that I want to develop in my life, but they top the list of things that I would want to instill in my children some day (provided that the Lord blesses me with children some day!). And of course, the best way to instill something in another is for it to flow genuinely from our own lives – all the more reason to develop these characteristics! I have a long ways to go, but it’s always exciting to get a glimpse into the wisdom of God which He has so graciously revealed to us in His Word!
“He who loves purity of heart, and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend.” v.11
“Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.” v. 29
Ann says
Natalie-
Great thoughts! I too would like to be like that Proverbs person and fall too short. Although you may not have, as you put it, ‘children of your own’,you touch the lives of so many children through your piano studio and AIC. You do make a difference in training those whose lives you touch on a daily basis. Keep striving for the godliness you desire. God is faithful.
Karen says
Great post! I just wrote a blog post on the character qualities of David. These are the very ones he possessed as well