Taking My Own Medicine
No
I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I
myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
1 Corinthians 9:27
Have you ever been impressed with
someone: their accomplishments; their ability to articulate ideas; and their
knowledge and skill only to learn later it was just an act? How disappointed
were you to discover someone you wanted to emulate was a fraud? The probability
of your success to replicate their achievements was now in serious question. If
they couldn’t do it, what hope was there for you?
My sphere of influence as a writer
and occasional speaker is tiny compared to the apostle Paul’s. That doesn’t get
me off the hook though. If I want others to take my thoughts and insights
seriously, I need to take my own medicine. Failure to do so will be
catastrophic.
When I address any audience,
there’s one individual I have in my sight and zero in on. This person needs to
hear and implement what I’m about to share. For me, they are the neediest one
in the bunch. That person is me.
Sorry if this comes across as
self-centered, but it’s true. God hasn’t retired and left me in charge. I don’t
have it all together all the time. I’ve got more questions than I have answers.
I’m grateful that people expend their most valuable resource, their time, and
listen to what I have to say. They deserve more than just a dog and pony show
from a seasoned performer.
I write about issues that
God has his finger on in my life. Ouch. Should I question His love, all I need
to do is read Hebrews 12:6, “…the Lord disciplines those He loves.” I’m in an
endless state of correction so I guess that means God loves me a whole lot.
God desires we finish our race and
win the prize. Along the way our paths may intersect with others who struggle
and need help and encouragement. They don’t want a spin doctor but someone real
who’s been where they are and may even be there now. They need some who’s faced
the heat of battle and survived.
As our routes intertwine my desire
is to be more than someone who makes a flashy presentation that’s all fluff and
no stuff. Maybe I should rename my blog “Welcome to my Medicine Cabinet.” Feel
free to partake if you find something helpful; there’s plenty to share. When
you see me, if I have a funny, sort of painful look on my face you’ll know, I
just got a dose of my own medicine. I needed it.
Yes, I TOTALLY relate to what you've written here!
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