Rabbi Daniel Lapin shares that the Talmud stated 2000 years ago that the lion is the king of beasts. Though not the largest, smartest or fastest animal, the lion is given royal treatment and serves as an incredible teaching tool when we understand why.

Ancient writings confirm what is known today by science about these majestic creatures, lions are very economical physically. In short, they waste no movement whether in motion or sitting still.

When they run their bodies flow with perfect grace, and when they sit they scan the horizon with intention but without anxiety.

Contrast them to an elephant which is constantly foraging for food and flapping its ears, or to a bird that walks while darting their head to and fro. In comparison to the rest of nature, the lion has complete control over his body.

Lerner shares that this transfers to life lessons in the form of leadership. For instance, rather than slouching or fidgeting, sit with a sense of presence and avoid constant movement. Face people with your whole body when engaged in a conversation. And perhaps most important, don't associate with petty and devious people.

Choose your movements carefully and purposefully and your friends even more so. Control your thoughts and your reactions and remain in control in spite of other people losing their cool. Begin to act the part of royalty, something scripture claims you are by God's grace (1 Peter 2:9).

When you choose to be a lion and associate with other lions you will see things from a different perspective, not one of pride but one of a steady confidence that is relaxed and in charge.

I challenge you to go to the zoo or the park over the coming week and observe animals and notice their behaviors in contrast to the lion. You will notice small dogs in your neighborhood that shake and yip and large dogs that growl and stomp the ground and run from one corner of the yard to the next.

You will notice other creatures that always seem to be looking for their next meal while chattering incessantly. And while each of these animals has their own beauty, you will soon see the difference between them and the king of beasts.

And before long you will understand why the wisdom teachers' simple but powerful advice for millennia is worth considering, always choose the lion for your life.

About the Author:
A former pastor, Tobin holds both a B.A. and an M.A. in theology. Having traveled widely in the Marine Corps and as a graduate student, Tobin has spent the past 15 years gathering some of the world's most powerful life-changing truths. He's the author of The Life That Is Really Life: How Biblical Truth Can Transform Your Spiritual, Emotional, Physical and Relational Health which is available on Amazon and at his website twominutesermon.com