Yesterday, a representative from Cokesbury Bookstores came to our church to meet with Sunday school teachers and present different curriculums.
As I walked from table to table, examining different courses, I heard Pastor Brian talking to some of our teachers. He said, “This is one of the greatest preachers I have ever heard.”
Naturally assuming he was referring to me, I walked over and said, “Are you talking about me?” He laughed and said, “No, I’m talking about the greatest preacher I’ve ever heard.”
When I understood Pastor Brian meant I wasn’t the greatest preacher he had ever heard, I did the appropriate thing. I fired him.
One of the most important lessons we can ever learn is that there will always be someone smarter, richer, better looking, or more talented than we are. It’s just how life works. And whenever we begin to think we are the end-all-be-all, life has a way of bringing us back to reality and many times God uses other people to help us see the truth.
When King Nebuchadnezzar walks along the roof of his palace, bragging about who he is and what he has done for his own glory, God brings him back to the realization that he is not nearly as important as he thinks he is.
After learning this very hard lesson, Nebuchadnezzar says: “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are truth, and his ways are justice; and he is able to bring low those who walk in pride.” (Daniel 4:37)
The moment we begin to get too big for our britches, God loves us enough to bring us back to reality. God is good.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, thank you for loving me. I humbly ask you to use me for your purpose. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Now that I’ve had a little time to digest Pastor Brian’s mean insensitive comment, I have come to the conclusion he is right. I’m not the greatest preacher ever. That would be Jesus. That makes me second. I’m good with that.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 