Oh, my, Father, too many things going through my mind this afternoon! Church, work and home – and things from each are clamoring for my attention. Help me to focus on You. You alone can bring peace. Amen.

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Of all things, our bathroom clock caught my eye as I readied myself for work in the wee hours of the morning. On its face it states that is manufactured by the Sterling and Noble Clock Company
When others see my face, would those be some of the first characteristics that come to mind? This is what I found when searching for definitions on Google.
Sterling – adj. – (of a person or their work, efforts, or qualities) excellent or valuable.
Noble – adj. – having or showing fine personal qualities or high moral principles and ideals.
Would I be seen as sterling and noble?
I tell you one thing; I am the absolute worst when it comes to lying – just ask my wife! Even if it is for a good cause or something fun. Several years ago, we were having a surprise celebration for a milestone birthday of my wife’s at a local eatery. I told her that my folks were coming down to eat with us (a 2-hour drive), in an attempt to keep it a surprise. When she asked why we were meeting there and not some halfway location, I told her it was because they really liked the soft-serve ice cream they had…she didn’t buy it. They do like soft-serve icecream but she knew just by looking at me that there was more to it than that!
I am just very bad at it – period. There are those that would laugh at my inability to lie but really it doesn’t bother me. I’m really glad that I am not good at it.
This is by no means a holier-than-thou kind of thing but I strive to live as transparent a life as possible before everyone. There is just too much pulling the wool over people’s eyes in the world today. It’s hard to know who you can trust. And unfortunately, the Church is not exempt. It makes me sick to see the number of ministers and other people who are responsible for children and youth who make the headlines because of molestation or sex trafficking! It is awful!
We should be able to irrevocably trust those in leadership over us – especially in the Church!
Another topic that was addressed at last weekend’s ethics training dealt with the power that pastors have. It may not be as potent as it was 50 years ago but ministers still hold a very powerful position. Many, many people, in err mind you, tend to take their eyes of God and begin worshipping the pastor.
I am fallible. I am human. I make mistakes just like everybody else.
I need God. I am incapable of living the life He calls me to without His guiding hand, without His love filling me and flowing through me, without His strength, without His wisdom. I can only succeed. I can only overcome when He fills me.
Lord Jesus, may I be sterling and noble for You. May I be the person – not just the pastor – that you have called me to be. Being Your child is my first and foremost calling. Being Your servant to proclaim Your message is the outcome of my being Your child. Each day I give myself over to You. Amen.

Sept 19th, 2019, Thurs, 12:21 pm