Deflated Ego
Deflated Ego
Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted. (Luke 14:11)
A Thousand Miles
A signing had been scheduled for Rick’s first book, and there was no way the fledgling author was going to miss it. Rick hates to fly, so he drove nearly a thousand miles from his house to the bookstore. Along the way he had visions of fans lined up around the block clamoring for his signature on their newly purchased book.
If only it worked out that way. After that long drive, one book was sold and signed. One. Make no mistake about it. A disappointed writer drove away from the bookstore that night and then the thousand miles back home. Other book signings went reasonably well, but Rick would never forget that first one.
No Better Lesson
Rick had never had a better lesson in humility. His book had been published, yes, but somebody else’s project was going to make the best-seller lists. In the end he decided that a book on his shelf with his name on the spine was good enough for him.
It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of personal and professional accomplishments. But that’s not what it’s all about. Christ set a far different example, and He isn’t impressed by much of what the world considers important. What He’s after is for us to humble ourselves, serve other people, and seek approval from Him only.
Bottom Line
If you’re seeking to impress others with your accomplishments, you’re barking up the wrong tree. Seek Christ’s approval.