“I’m not interested in crowd approval. And do you know why? Because I know you and your crowds. I know that love, especially God’s love, is not on your working agenda. I came with the authority of my Father, and you either dismiss me or avoid me. If another came, acting self-important, you would welcome him with open arms. How do you expect to get anywhere with God when you spend all your time jockeying for position with each other, ranking your rivals and ignoring God?” (John 5:41-44 MSG)
Wow. These words should be spoken at the pastor’s conferences I’ve been a part of. Ministers are affected by the same desires and temptations of the world. Prestige and admiration are among those desires. The result is church leaders who wind up seeking glory, salary and advancement rather than simply seeking more of Jesus.
Lord, help me to desire only more of you. I am susceptible to these follies and I am sorry. Forgive me and help me focus on what is best: promoting You and Your Kingdom rather than promoting myself.
Amen.