June 18, 2008
"People of Higher Culture”
Dear Friend,
Our English word “culture” is very close to the word “cultivate,” primarily a farming word. Cultivate means to prepare and employ the soil for raising crops. When we bring this word into use sociologically, we say a person of culture has cultivated his or her mind, affections and lifestyle to a higher standard. You might improve your own life culture by considering the following four suggestions:
- Cultivate thoughtfulness – Read, study and think about noble ideas.
- Cultivate the higher affections – Kindness, honesty, peacefulness and encouragement originate in our own emotions before we share them with others.
- Cultivate better manners – Being polite, unselfish and patient are expressions of a blessed personal culture.
- Cultivate a spiritual life – From Scripture, learn enlightened qualities of soul like peace, gentleness and reason; ask the Holy Spirit to develop a more noble culture within your spirit.
The Scriptures teach us nine cultured qualities of life:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control…”
Galatians 5: 22 & 23
If we cultivate these nine qualities in our minds, hearts and daily behaviors, we will be people of higher culture. May our gracious Lord grant us these qualities!
Doc
Dr. Dave Collings
Lead Pastor
Christ Church
