ManageYourEmotionsBook8.5x5.5_RevJULY.indd

through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God” and that “For not even when one has abundance does his life consist of his possessions” (Mark 10:25, Luke 12:15), we remain a people infatuated with possessions, a land in which the have-nots desperately yearn to join the haves – vigorously striving for a larger slice of the pie. Notoriety. Who can deny our obsession as a society with stardom and prestige? Just look at all the tabloidTV and print versions along the checkout line at the supermarket.The number of Twitter followers and Facebook “likes” has also become a litmus test of significance. Even as I write, a tight race for governor is taking place in my state.With the election just days away, both sides are sending in huge celebrities and high level officials to draw crowds and secure votes. As a board member for our local food bank, I’ve been tasked with finding a speaker for an upcoming fundraising banquet – and it’s got to be a well-known person – right? I nearly grieve thinking back at the number of times I’ve gone through this same process in the church.What are we looking for, a celebrity who can draws a crowd or a quality individual of integrity who loves the Lord and brings a solid biblical message? Abilities. As opposed to who people are, we’d rather focus on what they do – especially if they’re really good at it. Scripture says, “He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man” (Psalm 147:10).Yet it’s usually the biggest and best that grab our attention. I’ve struggled here over the years because I’m decent at a lot of stuff but great at very little. I highly respect those people who make and fix things because I am not so inclined. I’ve never pastored a mega-church and my phone isn’t ringing with opportunities or requests for quotes, comments or speak- ing engagements.The older I get, however, I’ve learned to except, embrace, and even celebrate this.The time that these things require

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