Everything that we say or do communicates what we want others to know about us. Sometimes, we do this by the clothes that we wear. When I wear a bright green shirt, the comments that I receive indicate that I am bringing happiness to my friends with an Irish heritage.

Sports fans often wear T-shirts or jerseys with the name and number of their favourite player. With the confusion over COVID-19, some people are showing their support for sound health advice by wearing T-shirts with a picture of their favourite chief medical officer.

Since I live in a residence with older residents, T-shirts with a particular message are not common. However, a new resident sported one with four words that really caught my attention:

SPIRIT
WISDOM
STRENGTH
BALANCE

With this message, I was led to research the dictionary meanings of these words and look up some of the many biblical references.

Each word has several definitions, but one for spirit is "the seat of emotions and character". This certainly establishes what constitutes me as an individual.

1 Corinthians 2:11 – For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. (NIV)

Wisdom is defined as "the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment". As the years go by, we each gain experience, but the challenge is to exercise good judgment. The Bible has much to say about wisdom.

Proverbs 2:6 – For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. (NIV)

Ephesians 5:15-16 – Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. (NIV)

James 1:5 – If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. (NIV)

A definition for strength is "the ability to withstand great force or pressure". Whether these forces are internal or external, it is necessary to be constantly on guard.

Isaiah 41:10 – So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (NIV)

Finally, a definition for balance is "even distribution".

Proverbs 16:11 – Honest scales and balances are from the Lord; all the weights in the bag are of his making. (NIV)

This research caused me to wonder seriously what I am communicating by my actions. Am I showing love and helping others in all that I do? Since everything we do affects others, this is a challenge that we must each strive to accomplish in God's strength in the best way possible.

Prayer: Dear Father, help us to communicate Your love through us to others. May we be Your light shining in the darkness. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Vincent Walter <vwalter@bell.net>
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Send your feedback to the author