
A large part of whatever contribution I have made to the easing of the burden borne by many is the many attempts at encouragement. We know from studying the Bible that praise is a wonderful tool toward strengthening desired behavior. For instance, check out the message of Jesus to the churches in chapter two and chapter three in the book of Revelation. In His little talk with each church Jesus commends their correct action. He then gives instruction concerning necessary corrections. Lastly Christ comforts with the assurance of His love for them. This is a good formula for parenting or the proper care of your spouse.
B.F. Skinner became the Guru of Behaviorist thought, though many of his ideas have since been swept aside, and for the most that’s a good thing. One phrase he often used and made mucho moola, was his Positive Reinforcement. Many thought this formula was sent from heaven. I must say is was, but not first to Professor Skinner. Jesus Christ used it two thousand years ago!
The value of Positive Reinforcement is seen not only in the scriptures but it is in wide use by Toastmasters with their “sandwich formula of praise, critique, praise.”
B.F. Skinner gave some very good advice to anyone who will take it regardless of their take on his version of human psychology:
“A failure is not always a mistake. It may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.” B.F. Skinner.
Far too many sincere men and women permit a mistake, or a series of mistakes, to beat them into acquiescing to life and make the real mistake to stop trying. Peter made this mistake during the brief period from just prior to the crucifixion of Christ to Peter meeting with Jesus for fried fish and a brutal lesson on the power of love. A close reading will clearly demonstrate the power of Jesus using Positive Reinforcement technique in restoring Peter.
Because failure is not always a mistake, but a learning step toward overall success, we must be willing to risk apparent failure, do as Peter and accept a change in motivation, then begin again, this time acting in the principle given by Jesus and refuse to stop trying.
Paul used this concept when he dealt with the wavering believers living in Galatia. Note this:
Ga 5:7 “You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?
8 This persuasion does not come from Him who calls you.
9 A little leaven leavens the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you, in the Lord, that you will have no other mind; but he who troubles you shall bear his judgment, whoever he is.”
Pay attention when reading the Bible and you will see the template over and again.
Copyright © 2016 Larry Lilly
Oral Mr. IT Oral Deckard
B.F. Skinner became the Guru of Behaviorist thought, though many of his ideas have since been swept aside, and for the most that’s a good thing. One phrase he often used and made mucho moola, was his Positive Reinforcement. Many thought this formula was sent from heaven. I must say is was, but not first to Professor Skinner. Jesus Christ used it two thousand years ago!
The value of Positive Reinforcement is seen not only in the scriptures but it is in wide use by Toastmasters with their “sandwich formula of praise, critique, praise.”
B.F. Skinner gave some very good advice to anyone who will take it regardless of their take on his version of human psychology:
“A failure is not always a mistake. It may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.” B.F. Skinner.
Far too many sincere men and women permit a mistake, or a series of mistakes, to beat them into acquiescing to life and make the real mistake to stop trying. Peter made this mistake during the brief period from just prior to the crucifixion of Christ to Peter meeting with Jesus for fried fish and a brutal lesson on the power of love. A close reading will clearly demonstrate the power of Jesus using Positive Reinforcement technique in restoring Peter.
Because failure is not always a mistake, but a learning step toward overall success, we must be willing to risk apparent failure, do as Peter and accept a change in motivation, then begin again, this time acting in the principle given by Jesus and refuse to stop trying.
Paul used this concept when he dealt with the wavering believers living in Galatia. Note this:
Ga 5:7 “You ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?
8 This persuasion does not come from Him who calls you.
9 A little leaven leavens the whole lump.
10 I have confidence in you, in the Lord, that you will have no other mind; but he who troubles you shall bear his judgment, whoever he is.”
Pay attention when reading the Bible and you will see the template over and again.
Copyright © 2016 Larry Lilly
Oral Mr. IT Oral Deckard