During my seminary days, I wrote the following words in my notes. I believe I was studying an Orthodox priest at the time. So, these are likely a paraphrase of his thoughts. I have found them helpful in my Christian walk and have referred to them often. Unfortunately, when I review them I realize how much I fall short.

In any case, perhaps these ideas will be of some benefit to you. Here are 30 proverbs for today:

• Spend some time in silence and prayer every day.

• Perform acts of kindness in secret.

• Go to communion regularly.

• Read the Scriptures regularly.

• Be polite with everyone.

• Have a healthy, wholesome hobby.

• Exercise regularly.

• Be totally honest, first of all, with yourself.

• Be faithful in little things.

• Do your work, and then forget it.

• Do the most difficult and painful things first.

• Face reality.

• Be grateful in all things.

• Listen when people talk to you. Be awake and be attentive.

• Think and talk about things no more than necessary.

• When you speak, speak simply, clearly, firmly and directly.

• Don’t complain, mumble, murmur or whine.

• Don’t compare yourself with anyone.

• Don’t seek or expect praise or pity from anyone.

• Don’t defend or justify yourself.

• Be defined and bound by God alone.

• Accept criticism gratefully but test it critically.

• Give advice to others only when asked or obligated to do so.

• Do nothing for anyone that they can and should do for themselves.

• Be merciful with yourself and with others.

• Have no expectations except to be fiercely tempted to your last breath.

• Focus exclusively on God and light, not on sin and darkness.

• When you fall, get up immediately and start over.

• Get help when you need it, without fear and without shame.

• Endure the trial of yourself and your own faults and sins peacefully, serenely, because you know that God’s mercy is greater than your brokenness.

The Rev. Dr. Bob LeFavi, installed member of the Society of Ordained Scientists, is pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church, Springfield.