Over the years, I have heard and learned about a dozen truths that I have called the axioms of my life. An axiom is a fundamental truth that many other truths can be built on; they are the foundation. I refined them so that I could state them in one sentence, easily remember them, and repeat them often. Those one-dozen truths are the foundation of my life. They shape and influence everything I have done and continue to do. The cool thing about having a few, very short guiding principles is that they easily pop into my mind at just the right moment to prompt and guide my words and decisions.

One of them is “eat dirt.” That is based on the words of Jesus when He said, “If you humble yourself, I will exalt you, but if you exalt yourself, I will humble you.” I get the chance to practice this principle almost every time I have a discussion with another person, which turns into an argument. I remind myself that I may win the argument but lose a blessing from the Lord. That really isn’t winning much.

Another one is, “I don’t have to act the way I feel.” Our emotions immediately follow an event or words from another person, and often, we feel hurt, offended, or strongly disagree. Speaking or acting according to those emotions can be foolish and damaging to relationships and our ministry. Children act the way they feel because they have little self-control, but I will do and say what is responsible, wise, and right. I can do that, and I will.

Another very simple axiom that I repeat often to others and myself is, “Read the Bible everyday, everyday, everyday.” That simple little phrase has made a huge difference in my life. So many times, I have been tired and tempted to skip my Bible reading for just one day, and that phrase pops into my head, followed by a second one, “ You don’t have to act the way you feel.” It is hard to skip after that.

I will give you some more tomorrow.