Author: John Monyjok Maluth

Knowing Your Deeds Is to Face the Reality Behind Your Actions

Deeds is an article designed to educate you about what deeds are, the ways we acquire them, their usage, and their significance in our lives. This article will guide you through an exploration to understand more about this vital aspect of our daily existence. With that introduction, let’s delve into the realities of this topic in greater detail below.

WHAT ARE DEEDS?

In the context I’m using, ‘deeds’ refer to our actions. Thoughts and words also constitute actions because they can be expressed. Actions are not limited to physical movements; we act in various ways. However, what we do with our hands or bodies is typically recognized as an action. For instance, as I type these words into my computer, I am taking action; I am typing.

Thoughts, as I mentioned, are mental activities, or deeds of the mind. They are invisible mental actions until expressed through words or physical actions. Our eyes and facial expressions are windows to our minds, souls, and hearts. For me, terms like spirit, soul, mind, and heart are synonymous, referring to the non-physical aspects of our being.

Deeds manifest as thoughts, words, and physical actions. This aligns with Biblical teachings that sin can occur through these mediums. We sin in our hearts, with our eyes, and with our hands. Therefore, when feeding our minds through these five senses, we must be cautious about what we consume. In modern times, we often know movies better than our scriptures, which is concerning.

Consider the impact of media on actions, such as someone committing suicide after watching a film, or the influence of horror fiction. We are shaped by what we consume, both physically and mentally. There’s no escaping the influence of what we read, watch, or listen to, which is why bad company can corrupt good character.

Sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste are all actions in their own right. Thus, our deeds, whether sensory or otherwise, can be positive or negative, impacting ourselves and others, both individually and collectively.

HOW DO WE GET DEEDS?

We acquire deeds initially through two primary means: nature and nurture. Our actions are often a result of innate intentions or external influences from our surroundings. The environment contributes to our upbringing, shaping our responses to various situations.

Some philosophers argue that if nurture were to dominate nature, then everyone would behave identically at all times. Peer pressure exemplifies an external influence that can compel us to act against our will.

Our actions are also influenced by the desires of our parents. In school, we may be obliged to study subjects that do not interest us because our parents deem them important, which can lead to failure. The influence of our family, friends, and associates on our decisions is significant, provided we grant them insight into our thoughts and plans.

Moreover, we possess inherent traits and acquire others from our environment, influencing our deeds and behaviors. For instance, some individuals have a natural propensity for gossip, which may be innate or environmentally induced.

Predominantly, these tendencies are congenital. For example, some people naturally dislike hearing negative remarks about others and feel compelled to inform the person being spoken about, regardless of their educational background.

HOW DO WE USE DEEDS?

Indeed, our deeds are the mirrors that reflect our identities to the world. Through speech and writing, we share our essence with others. My task is to pen these thoughts and present them to you. The content I write and publish, whether as articles or books, originates from my reflections. Over the years, I believe I have gained considerable knowledge on my life’s journey. We engage in various activities for myriad reasons, and through these actions, we express ourselves.

Our speech reveals our identity and knowledge to the world. Our actions are the means by which we communicate our intentions and values. On a personal note, I write to inform, instruct, and enlighten others about my areas of interest.

These areas include theology, information and communication technology, and my trilingual expertise. I instruct in English, Dinka, and Nuer, covering writing, reading, and speaking skills. I also teach the basics of ICT. Moreover, I impart knowledge on my most cherished subject: theology.

These endeavors constitute my life’s work. I dedicate my time to learning, teaching, and serving others, utilizing technology as an aid in my educational pursuits. As a teacher, my passion lies in disseminating knowledge to others. This is the essence of my deeds.

I believe this is my contribution to the world, and it is how I will be remembered after my departure. You may be reading these words at a time when I am no longer present in this world, yet our connection persists through this communication.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF DEEDS?

Indeed, deeds are significant. They can be good or evil, but either way, they are what we will be remembered by. Our words and actions leave a lasting impression, which is why I previously stated that words are essentially deeds in another form. Therefore, our words, thoughts, and actions hold great importance, and we must remain constantly aware of this.

Despite knowing this, we often act as we should not, rather than as we should. This is a profound observation. It can also be said that “what shouldn’t be, isn’t always so.” This acknowledges the existence of both impossibilities and possibilities. Positivity, then, is not founded on illusion but on genuine hope and reality. When I say something is possible, I mean it is achievable.

Regarding the significance of our deeds, they may matter to us but not to others. Is this problematic? Must we only act in ways that others approve? Certainly not. In any action, supporters and detractors will emerge, regardless of the action’s nature. Therefore, trust your instincts and do what you believe is correct.

This does not imply that advice is unnecessary. Rather, it suggests we must exercise caution when considering advice. Consider Solomon’s son from the Bible; he took unwise counsel from his peers, acted foolishly, and altered the course of Israel forever. Truly valuable advice is a rarity. Appearances can be deceiving, with some things seeming benign but harboring malice within.

MY FINAL WORDS

We have explored what deeds are, the ways we acquire them, their uses, and their significance in our lives. As is customary, this is my final opportunity to convey the insights I’ve gained from this article. What aspects of this article would you like to remember three years from now? My counsel is to listen to your heart, to that inner voice. Often, God communicates with us on a personal level, speaking from within.

If you have an innate inclination to perform good deeds for others, continue to do so and strive to excel even further. This will be your legacy; people will remember you for your actions. Moreover, if possible, jot down your reflections. Writing is a powerful tool that aids in our understanding of human history. Let us not grow tired of always doing good. This is my advice and my message to you, the reader.

I hope that the article on Deeds has been particularly beneficial to you. Would you care to share your thoughts on it in the comments section below? Your feedback and support are highly valued and will assist me in crafting better articles in the future. I pray for God’s blessings and protection over you during and beyond the global pandemic. Shalom!

FURTHER READINGS

•  Deed Definition and Meaning—Collins Dictionary.
• The Science of Good Deeds—WebMD.

Learning About Your Nature Is to Discover Your True Self

Nature is an article designed to aid in comprehending the essence of nature, the methods to understand it, the necessity of such understanding, and its significance. This article will guide you through understanding the nature of God, your own nature, the nature of others, and the nature of all creation. It may seem overwhelming, but the following content will elucidate these concepts.

WHAT IS NATURE?

In this article, I define ‘nature’ as the inherent state of being oneself, not shaped by nurture or upbringing. Indeed, we are products of both nature and nurture, yet nature often has the practical precedence. Research indicates that even proponents of nurture may be influenced by innate tendencies rather than empirical evidence.

If our natural state did not define us, it would be reasonable to assume uniformity in appearance, thoughts, words, and actions among all humans. However, even identical twins exhibit distinct personalities. They may share appearances, but their thoughts, speech, and behaviors differ, along with their individual preferences and unique fingerprints, assuming the accuracy of scientific claims.

Every entity in existence, from humans to the divine, possesses a distinct nature. Comprehending the true nature of beings is crucial for profound understanding. A meaningful life stems from recognizing our human nature, not from concealing ourselves behind religious or atheistic beliefs. It’s important to note that religion and divinity are not synonymous.

Humans possess a unique nature, distinct from other animals. Despite our shared human capabilities, individual natures result in diverse personality traits. These traits are innate, not fabricated. My personality exists independently of my education; learning merely enhances or diminishes our inherent qualities.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE UNDERSTAND NATURE?

There are numerous methods for us to comprehend nature, which in this context, refers to understanding our human nature, not the environment. We can gain insight into ourselves by reflecting on our past and present thoughts, words, and actions. These aspects can reveal much about who we are. Seeking feedback from others can also contribute to our self-understanding.

However, others may misconstrue our true selves. Therefore, a reliable method to understand our identity is to consider what God has articulated about humanity in the Bible. These approaches help us discern our natural selves. This understanding can be achieved through solitude, by contemplating God’s words to previous generations for a broader perspective, and through inquiry.

Yet, it is believed that God possesses a deeper knowledge of us than we or others might have. By praying for divine guidance, we can learn to value and love ourselves, which is essential before extending that appreciation and love to others. Self-exploration is the key to discovering our true essence, focusing on who we are now rather than who we aspire to be in the future. We exist as we are, without the need for becoming.

WHY DO WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND NATURE?

Understanding ourselves individually is crucial for leading meaningful lives. It enables us to appreciate and love ourselves as we are. However, not everyone experiences this self-awareness. Some people are inclined to view themselves through the lens of others’ opinions and judgments, often leading to false and unproductive self-assessments. True self-understanding makes life significant to us.

Self-understanding is necessary to comprehend God, other humans, and the rest of creation. It allows us to forgive ourselves for our individual wrongdoings. Forgiveness is a sign of self-understanding, which in turn fosters understanding towards others.

By understanding God as He is, we achieve peace with Him. By understanding ourselves as individuals, we find peace within. By understanding others as they are, we maintain peace with them. And by understanding the world as it is, we live in harmony with it. Thus, comprehending the nature of God, ourselves, others, and creation is essential.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE?

Understanding human nature could lead to a life of peace and harmony with ourselves and the world. However, does this understanding always result in individual peace and harmony with creation? While we cannot eliminate conflict, comprehending our human nature and the nature of the surrounding creation can help reduce it.

This is the rationale behind the study of natural sciences, which explores energy and matter, the fundamental components of our physical universe. Yet, this knowledge is incomplete, as the spiritual aspects of these physical properties remain unknown to humanity, even in the 21st century.

The inability to recognize the existence of something does not prove its non-existence. The spiritual realm does exist, and one day, we may be able to study and harness its forces in a laboratory setting.

Understanding the nature of God is crucial to knowing God, highlighting the importance of comprehending nature, be it divine or human. Grasping our nature can aid in reducing self-inflicted conflicts, fostering personal peace. Similarly, understanding others can help decrease interpersonal conflicts, making the understanding of human nature immensely significant.

MY FINAL WORDS

We have reached the conclusion of this article. It has explored the concept of nature, our understanding of human nature, the reasons why self-understanding is necessary, and the significance of such understanding. My parting thought is that history has taught us that despite possessing vast knowledge, we remain human. Essentially, our nature shapes our thoughts, words, and actions.

If you consider yourself a good person, continue in your ways. If you find yourself on the wrong path, strive to comprehend the implications of your actions and make changes to your thoughts, words, and deeds where possible. However, if you struggle to change aspects of your life, accepting yourself as you are may be the best course of action. After all, if God created you this way, why attempt to alter what you did not create?

I trust this article has been beneficial to you on a personal level. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below; your feedback and contributions are highly valued. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask, and I will assist you to the best of my ability. I pray for God’s blessings upon you and your loved ones, for safety during and beyond the global pandemic. Shalom!

FURTHER READINGS

• What Is Nature?—Wikipedia
• What Is Nature?—Environment and Ecology.

Wisdom Is Your #4 Key to a Meaningful Life

Wisdom is an article designed to guide you in understanding the essence of wisdom, the pathways to becoming wise, its applications, and its significance in our increasingly perplexing and challenging world. Through this article, you will grasp the fourth key to a fulfilling life. Recognizing the various forms of wisdom is crucial, and this piece aims to elucidate them. Now, let’s delve into the insights presented in the article.

WHAT IS WISDOM?

In this article, I define wisdom as the fourth key to a meaningful life, following attentive listening, true understanding, and genuine knowledge. But what constitutes wisdom? It is the ability to distinguish what is right and beneficial from what is wrong and harmful.

Yet, how do we define right or wrong, good or evil? Who sets these standards? Let’s acknowledge that sometimes what we consider human wisdom is actually foolishness. Take cheating as an example; to the cheater, it may seem wise.

The cheater believes their actions are secret, equating this with wisdom. However, this is not wisdom; it is folly. It is folly because, even if the cheater succeeds, they are not truly undetected. This isn’t about religious fear or guilt; it’s a fundamental aspect of our nature. Cheating is a part of human behavior. To claim I am exempt would be dishonest.

Discerning right from wrong must be seen through the perspective of the One who created all things, for He knows the difference. This raises the question: are humans incapable of distinguishing right from wrong? Are we not accountable for our erroneous choices? These are questions each individual must contemplate.

Similarly, to differentiate good from evil, we must view things as the Creator does. By doing so, we can attain His genuine wisdom, untainted by deceit or foolishness. We may deceive others and ultimately ourselves, but this is futile because a watchful presence rewards individuals according to their actions.

Some may argue that this is a relic of 17th-century thought, deemed obsolete. But is it really? Continuing on, I define true wisdom as the capacity to identify folly through the Creator’s perspective. Yet, despite this knowledge, we often find ourselves committing the very follies we recognize.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE GET WISDOM?

We acquire the ability to be wise through two different means: nature and nurture. However, there are two types of wisdom: divine wisdom and worldly wisdom. We are born with human wisdom, which to God is folly because it is based on a lack of knowledge, an unawareness that life is not solely physical.

Who created us? Why were we created the way we are? Can a potter fault the pot for not being what it was intended to be? These are legitimate human inquiries. This unawareness that life transcends the physical leads us to hide from the truth and instead lie for our own temporary or earthly gains.

Some of us are born with true wisdom. We understand that speaking the truth can lead to our downfall, but we choose this path because it is the right thing to do. However, speaking a harsh truth can also lead to crucifixion; so, is this wisdom or folly?

In this world, speaking a harsh truth can be destructive, leading us to err, and we deem it folly. But in the spiritual realm, which is unrelated to religion, it is considered wisdom. We must recognize that there is one who observes all and rewards or punishes accordingly.

Is this fear or superstition? Let’s consider that.

This suggests that our human wisdom is often folly, not only to ourselves but also to divine beings. Being called a fool is unpleasant, yet we all act foolishly occasionally. It’s likely you’d admit to having done so repeatedly.

Acknowledging our mistakes is wise because it’s only a matter of time before attempts to conceal our foolishness reveal us as fools. Thus, we naturally embody both foolishness and wisdom.

We gain the capacity for wisdom from those we’ve encountered in our past. We acquire knowledge from people we are currently meeting. In the future, we may also learn from others we have yet to meet on earth. As you read this, you might be learning how to acquire wisdom. However, our inherent natures and experiences tend to filter what we learn.

WHAT’S THE USE OF WISDOM?

Understanding what we nourish ourselves with is crucial, encompassing both our physical and spiritual beings. The media we consume plays a significant role in how we apply wisdom. We employ wisdom to choose what to listen to, read, and watch, and to understand the reasons behind these choices.

Wisdom is utilized to lead a life of significance. A meaningful life is one of harmony with oneself, with God, with fellow humans, and with all of God’s creation. Wisdom enables us to comprehend ourselves and the world as God does, rather than through mere external appearances.

How do I come to know all this? Could these insights be merely religious assertions or blind faith? Consider this: we use genuine wisdom to understand God as He understands Himself. We come to know ourselves, others, and the entirety of creation as God does.

This profound understanding paves the way for the application of true wisdom, influencing our perspectives and actions. Wisdom guides us to recognize that our earthly existence is purposeful and hopeful, conceived by a thoughtful entity, not arising from mere chance as defined in any language.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS TOPIC?

Is wisdom truly important? If genuine wisdom entails a correct understanding of all that we know, then indeed, wisdom is paramount. Without it, we may experience pleasure but not joy.

Pleasure differs from joy. While pleasure may arise from sinful acts and deceit, giving a false sense of wisdom, joy comes from doing the right thing at the right moment.

Joy endures. Pleasure is fleeting, but joy can be everlasting. It transcends mere happiness or temporary physical satisfaction. This underscores the significance of true wisdom.

It brings joy because we are confident that our decisions are correct, informed by knowledge and truth, as affirmed by the Word of God. Wisdom protects us from the suffering that comes from its absence. Therefore, wisdom is of utmost importance, isn’t it?

If one views the Bible as outdated, how can they trust its teachings or find them truthful? Consider this. Read the Bible and make your own judgment. I may not believe the stories occurred exactly as written, but can I derive important lessons about wisdom from it? Indeed, I can. And so can you.

MY FINAL WORDS

By now, you may have grasped the essence of this ability, as discussed in this article, including ways to acquire it, its applications, and the significance of true wisdom. My counsel to you, dear reader, is that we urgently need this capacity for wisdom, and the time is now, not later.

To be truly wise is to perceive through the eyes of God. However, we must acknowledge that such wisdom is not universal. When others lack this wisdom, it is more prudent not to disdain or criticize them, particularly when you and I possess this genuine ability that they lack. We should recognize that our wisdom is not derived from people or our surroundings, but from God.

This ability is innate and nurtured, passed down from those before us who held this wisdom. I trust that the article on Wisdom has been beneficial to you. Would you care to share your thoughts on it in the comments below? Your insights on the articles I contribute to the world are always valued. Moreover, I pray for God’s protection over you and your loved ones during and beyond the global pandemic.

FURTHER READINGS

•  What Is Wisdom?—BiblWord.
• What Is Wisdom (and how to get it)?—Bible Study Tools.

Knowledge Is Your #3 Key to a Meaningful Life

This article is designed to guide you in understanding what knowledge entails, how to acquire it, its applications, and its significance in today’s world. You will delve into the third key to a meaningful life, which promises to transform and enhance your life uniquely. With this introduction, let’s discover what insights the article holds for us.

WHAT IS KNOWLEDGE?

In this article, I would like to employ the term ‘knowledge’ as the third key to a meaningful life. It is defined, in part, as the capacity to understand and comprehend to the best of one’s mental abilities. The first key is attentive listening, followed by understanding. Knowledge follows a thorough understanding of something or someone with which you are well-acquainted.

We can grasp a thing, a person, or a concept. Even situations can be understood, and upon achieving this understanding, we claim to have grasped the essence of the perceived. However, comprehending humans is among the most complex challenges in the world. We may understand each other to a certain degree, but even married couples cannot fully comprehend or know each other as they might believe.

This complexity arises because humans are the most intricate organisms on earth. Our self-understanding is intertwined with our knowledge of God, as John Calvin articulated over a century ago in his work, ‘Biblical Christianity.’ Our self-awareness stems from viewing ourselves through the lens of God, the Creator. Some refer to this as Mother Nature, others as the cosmos, or simply the universe. It is through this lens that we can best understand and know ourselves.

Understanding ourselves as God does allows us to claim self-knowledge. Similarly, when we comprehend other humans and creatures in this manner, we can assert that we have known them properly. This suggests that there are various forms of knowledge, including divine knowledge and worldly knowledge. Divine knowledge is superior as it enlightens us to our place within the entirety of creation, affirming that we are no greater than ants, as Sadhguru expressed.

Related: Life Coaching Ultimate Guide

HOW DO WE GET KNOWLEDGE?

Knowledge stems from two primary sources: nature and nurture. We inherit certain traits naturally, which means we may possess characteristics passed down from our parents. For instance, I might dislike something simply because I inherited the trait from my father. However, upbringing can also shape our preferences, teaching us to dislike something or someone not inherently, but through external influence or instruction.

We distinguish between revelation knowledge and discovery knowledge. Revelation knowledge transcends basic natural knowledge; it is the innate understanding that drives us to investigate our interests. It’s the curiosity that propels us to explore Earth and beyond.

Discovery knowledge involves learning about what already exists; it’s external, whereas revelation knowledge is internal. We derive understanding from both within and without, through experiences, trials, and errors, utilizing all our physical senses to gather information from the external world.

WHAT’S THE USE OF KNOWLEDGE?

What, then, is the purpose of knowledge? Indeed, if knowledge is the key to a meaningful life, then acquiring it is one of the most worthwhile endeavors. Proverbs 4:7 suggests that in all our pursuits, we should seek understanding, implying that true understanding begets true knowledge, which in turn leads to true wisdom.

We will explore the significance of understanding shortly, but let’s consider the application of knowledge. Its use is to attain wisdom, and to gain wisdom is to lead a meaningful life, for without true understanding, life lacks meaning. True knowledge is divine in nature.

To know God as He knows Himself is to know ourselves as He knows us. This extends to knowing others as God knows them, and to understanding and knowing all of creation in the same manner.

The true value of knowledge lies in our ability to appreciate ourselves, God, others, and all of God’s creation. This is the essence of understanding—to be grateful for our lives, whatever they may be. Indeed, life is bleak, even with all the monetary and material wealth in the world, if we do not perceive the world in this divine way. It is evident that many are burdened with depression or stress despite their riches.

WHAT’S THE IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE?

Reflecting on the concept of knowledge, we delve into its significance. Is knowledge vital? Our discussion transcends mere scientific knowledge or understanding the world and its properties. We consider understanding from the perspective of the Creator. It’s crucial to distinguish that my reference to God here is not synonymous with religion or religiosity.

God differs from religion. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ underscores the distinction between God and religious practices. While people may inherently possess religious tendencies, God transcends these; He is omnipresent and universal. Knowledge can be categorized as propositional (facts), procedural (skills), and acquaintance (experiences), yet these represent scientific or tangible forms of awareness.

What we aim to comprehend is the essence of knowledge, which surpasses the mere accumulation of facts. This perspective is paramount in appreciating the broader scope of understanding.

Beyond our physical senses lies a realm of knowledge inaccessible through conventional means. Hence, we should engage our ‘sixth sense’ to grasp the true nature of the world. This epitomizes the essence of genuine comprehension, which is spiritual rather than religious, highlighting the profound disparity between spirituality and religiosity.

MY FINAL WORDS

We have now explored what constitutes knowledge and what does not. Knowledge can be categorized into two types: physical and spiritual. The profound comprehension of ourselves, God, other humans, and the world around us constitutes the knowledge of God. God perceives His creations as inherently good. It is crucial to understand everything as God understands His world and Himself.

You are faced with a choice. Utilize this article to evaluate yourself, God, other humans, and the world around you. Possessing this all-encompassing understanding will lead you to a life filled with meaning, purpose, and peace. May God bless and protect you and your loved ones during and beyond the global pandemic.

FURTHER READINGS

• Definition of Knowledge—Wikipedia.
• Epistemology—Plato.
• What Is Knowledge? A brief Primer—Psychology Today.