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Michael Fox CPCC,
founder of m�agine!,
is a professional
coach and trainer,
author and creative artist, whose work has been featured throughout
the world.
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"Word � Wisdom � Wonder..."
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The apostle Paul, writing to the Christians at Colossae, used a trio of words to describe a believer's relationship with the word of God: "We have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding" (Colossians 1:9). Knowledge, wisdom, understanding. The word "knowledge" is translated from the Greek epignosis which speaks of knowledge that is true or full. The word "wisdom" describes an intelligence that is broad and diverse--rooted in mind and heart--that shows up as acuteness or prudence; it is an element of emotional intelligence. The word "understanding" is translated from a Greek word that means "a flowing together"; it beautifully speaks to the ability to see the relationship between the part and the whole, the individual puzzle piece and the assembled image. Knowledge, wisdom, understanding.
Never one to ignore a powerful and legitimate alliteration, I have reframed knowledge, wisdom and understanding in a tool called Word � Wisdom � Wonder. "Word," "Wisdom" and "Wonder" describe three subsequently deeper levels of relationship with the scripture and its Author.
"Word" represents the entry level to access scripture. The word of God is, perhaps to most, a reference book akin in literary style to an encyclopedia or a dictionary, a book of quotable quotes, filled with precepts and promises, marked by chapter and verse. Inspired, yes. Readable as a book, not so much. Tragically, this perspective of scripture is not limited to those who are new to scripture. Many veteran devotees of the word of God never get past this entry-level perspective of scripture. Consequently, their Bibles, for all practical purposes, might be subtitled, Book of Regulations Encapsulating Duty of Man, or by the acronym thereof.
"Wisdom," the second level toward a deeper relationship with the word of God, is characterized by the movement of the words of God from ink to spirit, from mind to heart, from reason to devotion-or better, devotedness.
The third level of a deeper relationship with the word of God is "Wonder." Wonder is reserved for those who recognize the Bible, not merely as a book of quotable wisdom and divine directive, but as a sweeping, three dimensional, interactive narrative of God's relentless efforts to establish and restore a relationship with His creation. It is the story of the kingdom of God; the whole and its many parts share a recurring theme of Bondage, Deliverance, Reconciliation. Further, the Divine Narrative does not conclude with the final page of Revelation; it continues to unfold to our generation and beyond, inviting you and I to step into its pages and participate in the story--much as Peter, Lucy, Edmund, and Susan stepped through the wardrobe and into C.S. Lewis' world of Narnia. |
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Michael Fox
m�agine!
530/613.2774
P.O. Box 9144
Auburn, CA, USA 95604
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In addition to personal and professional coaching,
m�agine! specializes in spiritual transformation coaching,
employing its proprietary models: Values, Vision, Voice and Heart, Soul, Mind & Strength.
Coaching fees are based upon a sliding scale. Contact us for details.
Limited scholarships are available for spiritual transformation coaching.
On the flip side, if you are able, please inquire about opportunities
to fund scholarships for those who cannot afford coaching fees.
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