In my devotional time this morning I read Proverbs 28:1 that states
"The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions."
I thought about it for a few minutes and had to ask myself this question...
Which side better describes me?
Many times in life we are faced with chances to be bold in our beliefs or to be timid about being a Christ-follower. I have to admit, when I am asked what I do for a living by new people I meet, I find myself on the more timid nature. See, I can't stand it when people act normal around me until the find out that I'm a pastor. It seems that then they turn on this "religious" facade.
It's not that I'm embarrassed about what I do. It's not that I'm insecure in my gifting. I just HATE fake people. I have a hard time with ministers who talk in their "preacher voice" at the dinner table with their kids. I struggle with pastors that cut their grass in a suit and tie. That isn't REAL!
On the flip side, I can't stand it when someone is using profanity until they learn of my pastoral position and then starts throwing out "Hallelujah" and "Praise the Lord." In the same respect, that isn't REAL!
I can allow the boldness of the Holy Spirit to flow through my life without making others feel like the scum of the earth. I should be secure enough in who God is and who He created me to be that I don't have to prove my position by demanding others to stop being themselves.
Boldness: there have been a lot of weird and crazy things that have gone on in the name of boldness. Tell me your stories. Let's have a laugh together.
Also, how can we still be bold without becoming a flake? What are your thoughts?
I love it man! My thoughts exactly. I had an old neighbor, when I introduced myself he was throwing out all kinds of words. When I told him my job as a "pastor" he immediately began to tell me how much he loved God, church, and living for Him. It was funny. Not that "cussing" will send you to hell, but it's a lifestyle issue!
ReplyDeleteWe can be BOLD by just being who we are. It's time for a generation of pastors to step up and become who they are instead of who everyone wants them to be. We aren't perfect, but God has given us speaking and relational gifts for a reason. LET'S USE THOSE!!! It's time to be who we were created to be!