Name/Fame

We live in a culture that exalts people and makes idols of them. Let it not be so in the church or in our lives! Whose name are we living for? Do we truly live for His attention, praise, and glory? Are we looking to make a name for ourselves? Did not the same God make all of His servants and will He not provide all needs to those who ask? Yes, we need eachother and the body of Christ to help us grow, but we ought to remember that God who made all and works through all is the one to applaud and seek. I have met far to many believers that exalt a teacher, preacher, or ministry above God! God works through our leaders, but He gives all things to all who ask! Do we only believe God will speak to us through another? Will we really only experience God if we go to a conference or church? God promises that when we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us! I am in no way saying that there are not anointed pastors, preachers, teachers, evangelists, worship leaders, and movements out there. I am thankful to God for the five-fold ministry and the grace He gives to further His purposes in our lives. HOWEVER, when we pursue them more than God Himself, we are in trouble people!

We must be careful in leading people to Christ we do not lead them to ourselves! We have to remember it is God who gives us gifts, callings, etc. for His glory to draw people closer to Him. It is the Pharisees who Jesus condemned who "loved the praise of man more than the praise of God." Paul said if he still sought to please men, he could not please God. We must promote Jesus Christ. . . our aim is Him, we make Him our affection, attention, and audience. From what I remember, Jesus' life did not end in fame and glory, but in death as a criminal, betrayed by all who followed Him. Should His SERVANTS be above their MASTER?!

Lower, Lord, bring us lower
may we get out of the way
for your glory to stay.

"Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are your's; Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are your's; And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's."   (1 Cor. 3:21-23)