The 10 Commandments of Common Sense
Wisdom from the Scriptures for People of All Beliefs
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- $13.99
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- $13.99
Publisher Description
The author of Life's Greatest Lessons presents ten principles of practical wisdom to live by, drawn from readings of both the Old and New Testaments for people of all beliefs.
Readers love Hal Urban's books for their common sense, their wisdom, and their inspirational affirmation of timeless values. With The 10 Commandments of Common Sense, he continues to build on his central theme -- that there's a direct relationship between good character and the quality of life. He also shows how the teachings of Scripture and the genuine practice of faith can be integral parts of a fulfilling existence.
Urban draws on his own lifelong spiritual search -- which has included Protestant churches, the Catholic church, some Eastern philosophies, and human potential psychology -- to produce an ecumenical and nondogmatic examination of the Scriptures, finding in them clear and simple guidance for increasing both purpose and joy in our lives. Five of his principles are do's, as in "Keep a positive outlook on life" and "Bring out the best in other people." The other five are don't's, as in "Don't be seduced by popular culture" and "Don't judge other people." These ten commandments of timeless wisdom will inspire people of all faiths who are searching for more meaning and direction in their lives, no matter where it comes from.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Psychologist and former teacher Urban (Life's Greatest Lessons) offers a new set of Ten Commandments, which he hopes will appeal to people of all faiths. Drawn from Christian scriptures, they include five things to avoid, e.g., "Don't be seduced by popular culture," but learn to think for yourself; "Don't fall in love with money and possessions"; and "Don't judge other people," recognizing that pride is at the root of negative behaviors. He also offers five positive commands, including "Keep a positive outlook on life," "Have impeccable integrity" and "Help those in need." Perhaps out of his desire to find unity among people of any faith or no faith, Urban finds the "central message" of the scripture in the Bible's more general commands to "love God, be good, do good, and love others." His ideas on avoiding judging seem to encompass critical thinking as well. For example, those who oppose Norman Vincent Peale's Power of Positive Thinking are described as "self-righteous, judgmental fundamentalists." While Urban's easy-to-read book is full of both common and uncommon sense, ultimately it lacks depth, and its goal to use scripture to appeal to every possible audience may backfire.
