The Des Moines Register carried an article and review of a new book by John Izzo, “The Five Secrets You Must Discover Before You Die.” The article noted that that the author interviewed two Iowans in his research. From a practical standpoint, it is helpful to filter life and current culture—including the multitude of books that are published, through the grid of what the Bible says. This aids in recognizing the intersection of faith and life. Consider Izzo’s “Five Secrets” in light of what the Bible teaches.
Secret #1: Be true to yourself. The author says you should have the discipline to listen to your heart to find out what makes you happy and the courage to follow that path and make it a priority. Examine how God contrasts Izzo’s secret in Genesis 6.5 and Matthew 16.24.
Secret #2: Leave No Regrets. Izzo teaches that when faced with a decision, you should think of yourself as an old woman sitting in a rocking chair near the end of life and ask yourself: What decision do I wish I had made? At the end of life you won’t regret risks you took. Measure this secret against Philippians 4.6; Ephesians 5.1; and, 1 Peter 2.21.
Secret #3: Become Love. The author claims that people who “become love” look at love as a choice rather than an emotion. Choose to become a loving person by loving yourself, eliminating self-critical thoughts and then making loving relationships with others a priority by not being critical. Reflect on these instructions in Matthew 22.39 and Ephesians 4.32.
Secret #4: Live the Moment. Izzo claims it is important to live fully in each moment, not looking back or forward or judging each moment, but being alive in each moment with gratitude. Consider this biblical measurement in Colossians 3.1-4.
Secret #5: Give More Than You Take. Last, Izzo encourages you to find a connection with others that is outside yourself, not focusing on finding personal happiness, love, fame and fortune, but in acts that improve the lives of others. Explore these commands in Romans 12.10; Philippians 2.3; and, Acts 20.35.
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1 comment:
Interesting... Thanks for the enlightenment.
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