In stating his purposes for compiling the collection of writings we now know as “Proverbs,” King Solomon penned this little nugget:
That people may know skillful and godly Wisdom…and receive instruction in wise dealing and the discipline of wise thoughtfulness, righteousness, justice, and integrity…. Proverbs 1:2-3 (AMP)
Several months ago, that phrase, “the discipline of wise thoughtfulness” jumped out at me. Discipline can be defined* a couple of ways:
- as a noun: “activity, exercise, or a regimen that develops or improves a skill; training”
- as a verb: “to train by instruction and exercise; drill.” or “to bring to a state of order and obedience by training and control.”
In other words, Solomon is implying that we should be training ourselves — and in particular, training our minds — in a consistent pattern or habit of wise thoughtfulness.
This says to me that the manner in which we think is important — not just the subject which we are thinking about. How many times have you or I said something or done something without systematically thinking it through first? Obviously, we can damage relationships, ruin opportunities, or just get less out of an experience when we aren’t thinking clearly.
If we’re taking this hint, we should cultivate the habit of living thoughtfully… of engaging our minds intentionally in focused, disciplined thought. If you’ve ever intentionally set aside time to think something through, you know why this requires training. It is hard work! But the rewards are unmistakable.
Do it today. Set an appointment and clear some time in your schedule to think through the challenges you’re facing. You’ll be glad you did.
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*“discipline.” Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.0.1). Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006. 26 Oct. 2006. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/discipline>