YETMO

"Looking for Answers"

A lot of folks look to Jesus for words of wisdom, but I know that there must be many other sages we can consult in learning the secrets of life.

There have been countless philosophers throughout the ages who can help us cope with daily problems. Socrates. Plato. Aristotle. St. Francis of Assisi. And what about the accomplishments of the Egyptians, Africans, Europeans? Plus we can learn from women, men, children, grandparents -- everyone!

For example, what about the wise one who said that we are the light of the world and should let it shine through the deeds we do? Or the person who advised us not to go to court, but rather to work out a better deal one-on-one with your adversary.

And who can forget former president Jimmy Carter's comment that he committed adultery because he lusted after women in his heart? And what about the tenet that if you transgress, it's better to cut off your arm or pluck out your eye lest your whole body be destroyed by sin and thrown into Hell?

There are so many examples of wise sayings about life and living. Who needs to consult Jesus?

Have you heard about integrity? Don't swear to God or others that you will do something. Just let your "yes be yes and your no, no." Any other utterances are superfluous.

And who can forget "turn the other cheek?" If your neighbor needs a blouse, give her your coat, too. And the sage tells us not to merely walk a mile in another's shoes -- walk two miles!

You see, if you look long enough and far enough, you'll pick up all kinds of gems of information.

What do you think about the guy who told us to love our enemies, for everyone, even tax collectors, love their friends? It's harder, better, and more challenging to love those to whom we are not pleasantly acquainted.

And how about the charge to give with discretion, without fanfare and notoriety -- do it just for the sake of giving. And when you pray do so in private. God hears us. We don't need to stand on the street corner, blast our prayer, and ramble on and on.

Forgive those who sin against you. Those are some words to try and live by. And if you fast, do so with good cheer, don't look or act glum. God doesn't approve of a sadsack.

All we have to do is look for guidance in living a good life. It's out there. Who has to look in just one place?

There are many other tidbits to learn and achieve desirable spirituality. Don't store up treasures on earth where moth and rust can eat them, store them in heaven. Your heart is where your treasure is. The eyes are the lamp of your body. One can't serve two masters: God and money. Don't worry. God will provide. Doesn't He feed the birds and provide for their needs? Aren't we more valuable than birds?

There are so many more tidbits. Seek first the kingdom of God. Don't judge lest you be judged. Why complain about the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye when you have a plank in yours? Don't throw pearls to swine. In other words, don't share your beliefs with those not spiritually mature enough to comprehend them.

Ask and it will be given, seek and you shall find, knock and every door will be open. A house built on sand won't survive, but one built on rock will.

And when all else fails, do to others as you'd have them do to you.

That last one sounds familiar. Yeah, that one's from Jesus. But the others?

All from Jesus. In fact, all these came from a mere 10-minute talk, the famous Sermon on the Mount.

Imagine what else there is to learn in his other 1,800 Bible verses.