Living Life by Design

I started my mortgage career at a national bank. Later, when NMLS licensing was established, I had moved from originating loans to management so I didn’t need an NMLS license. When my son decided to join me in the business we studied and took the test together. Both of us passed on our first attempt. The test is difficult. Less than 50% pass on the first try.

It’s been a joy to work side-by-side with my son. I have been able to give him the benefit of my years of experience in the business. He’s gone from a loan originator, to sales manager, and now a branch manager responsible for a an office, staff and seven loan originators. It’s a wonderful feeling having the privilege of talking with my son, now as a trusted peer. 

I never enjoy being rebuked by someone else, but I have come to see the faithful council of my son as something of great value. The Scriptures tell us that the right kind of rebuke is an important way in which God cares for us, and in which we can care for each other.

My son gives me wise counsel. At times, he even gives me rebuke but always from a position of kindness. It is not always easy at the time. But, I am so grateful for his love and support. David regards the rebuke of the righteous person as kindness – like ‘oil on my head’ (Psalm 141:5), because his desire is that not only his head, but every part of his body and his life, should honour God.

*His hands…’May the lifting of my hands be like the evening sacrifice’ (v.2). The lifting of hands to God symbolises an opening of the whole body to God.

*His lips…’Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips’ (v.3). I often pray this before I give a talk or go into a meeting – that God will protect me from saying anything unhelpful, and that my words will be an encouragement and a blessing.

*His heart…’Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil’ (v.4).  Your thoughts become your actions. Your actions become your habits. Your habits become your character. Your character becomes your life. It all starts in your heart.

*His eyes…‘My eyes are fixed on you, O Sovereign Lord’ (v.8). We are urged to ‘fix our eyes on Jesus’ (Hebrews 12:2).

Does the work of your hands, your everyday speech, what you hold in your heart, and allow your eyes to see, all honor God?