Chapter 10: Overcoming self-centeredness

In many ways I found Chapters 9 and 10 to be very similar. The addictive behaviors mentioned in Chapter 9 are a result of self-centered behavior. Thus, Chapter 10 highlights the fact that selfishness is sin, regardless if it is addictive behavior or not.

Getz makes a good point on p. 111. "My purpose is to illustrate that a Christian man who is self-centered, self-pleasing and self-oriented does not have a good reputation. He is overbearing and frequently rubs others the wrong way."

How often do we cover up our selfishness by simply calling it a "personality flaw or conflict"?

The term authadees (the double "ee" stands for a Greek eta, for those of you keeping up with the Greek terms) means self-willed, prideful, arrogant, or stubborn. Now really, who among us is not self-willed at some point? We are all guilty.

However, there is a pattern of behavior that Getz identifies that all disciples of Jesus Christ need to avoid. "It's difficult to confront a self-willed Christian because 'teachability' is not that person's strong suit. Most of us resist telling such a person our true feelings because we're intimidated and often fear rejection. Rather, we work hard to please and to be accepted by an overbearing person. Unfortunately, people naturally talk about this person rather than to this person." (p.112)

Now, do you agree with Getz assessment?

Getz goes on to say that this character trait (flaw?) is "often a smoke screen to cover up our feelings of insecurity and a weak self-image." (p.113) You can see how, especially in men, this trait can lead to problems in management, handling conflict, and developing relationships--with especially damaging results to our marriages.

Ultimately, Getz nails each one us on p.115. "Some of us have simply learned to be self-centered and self-willed. We're spoiled and conceited. We were overindulged as children. We always had our own way, and we still want our own way as adults."

Getz continues: "We can often live a life of pious behavior in certain realms but be selfish and self-centered in other circumstances." This attitude is evidents in the authoritarian manager or pastor, in the controlling spouse or parent.

Seems to me that if we are truly secure in our spiritual status before God, then we will be able to be transparent with those around us. Insecurity leads to defensiveness. Defensiveness appears as pride and stubbornness. We refuse to move because we are afraid.

Do not be filled with a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7

Getz then zeros in on the proper attitude of the disciple of Christ: A spiritually and psychologically mature Christian, however, does not use his willpower to dominate and crush others. He is able to maintain a balance between being strong willed and humble."

Measure of a Man: Chapter 9: What are you addicted to?

As I began writing this blog, I got hung up on the word "moderation." However, the key term that latched onto me was addiction.

According to Getz, being moderate in lifestyle means that one avoids addiction and over-indulgence. 1 Timothy 3 specifically addresses alcohol with the term "paroinos" which "literally means a man 'who sits too long at his wine.'" (Getz, 99). Getz extends the discussion to include smoking, over-eating (ouch), and drugs.

I think Getz application is accurate. The man of God is too avoid addictive behavior. Of course, this raises some questions.

Is there some addictive behavior that is more acceptable than others?

1. Some may argue that some addictions, like food or video games, are harmless or less of a negative fact for society. Other behaviors, like smoking or drinking or gambling or sex, have often been readily condemned for the easily identifiable impact that they have on society.

2. Some might argue that certain addictions are "pre-programmed" by our genes, or we may excuse certain addictive behaviors due to family culture and social programming. "Hey, its not my fault--my mother made me this way!"

Truth be told, all addictive behavior is negative and unacceptable for the man or woman of God. Some of us may have genetic predispositions to anger, but that does not make murder acceptable. Some may have survived terrible trauma in childhood or adulthood, but it does not mean that negative behaviors are to be perpetrated on society at large. The truth is, our genetic make up is fragile, and everyone one of us suffers from sort of predisposition to act in our own interest. Addictive behavior takes this selfish attitude and fulfills its desires regardless of the cost to the individual or to society. Thus, by defining an attitude as addictive, we have identified an actions or attitude that is selfish to the core and a behavior that does not exhibit that attitude of Christ on the cross. Ultimately, addictive, impulsive behaviors do not seek to benefit anyone but the user. Addiction is the enemy of "Love God, Love your neighbor."

So what do we do? Getz gives us simple and practical ways of addressing addictive behavior.

1. Don't judge--we are all subject to an imperfect body and imperfect society. Therefore, we are all capable to being addicted to something--and most likely are.

2. Be disciplined. We are programmed to fail. (p. 107). Break the cycle by programming you spirit with spiritual discipline. We all sin. It doesn't have to be an automatic choice. Fight sin with the power of the Resurrection that abides in you through the blood of Jesus Christ. Remember: HE IS ENOUGH!

3. Practice a higher principle. Addiction is all about me. We need to move our focus from ourselves to our love for God and our fellow man. Of course, this is not possible without faith in Jesus.

Addiction is a natural bi-product of our wealthy, self-centered Western culture. After all, everyone tells us that it is about us.

The Kingdom of God is radically different. It is about Jesus. Christ first. Christ is enough. He is the only one worthy of our love, our addiction.

Measure of a Man: Communicating Sensitively or Rightly?

I agree with Getz that good communication is a part of a healthy life, and kind words are important for the Christian. However, I am not sure that Getz captures the proper concept in this chapter. (And again I hope I don't sound too critical here.)

There are a couple phrases later in the list in 1 Tim 3:2 (including not quarrelsome, not violent but gentle) that seems to fit this chapter better. Getz himself uses terms like gentleness, kindness, and patience in describing the character he sees in this term. The term is listed on p. 89: didaktilos. The root term means "to teach," and it is the same root used for "disciples," of those who learn from a teacher. This form is unusual in classic Greek, and thus it makes me think that in some ways it is a Christian form used to describe those in the Christian faith who have the gift of teaching. Again, the root itself is usually limited to the "classroom" experience, where a master imparts knowledge to a follower. Thus, Getz's emphasis on gentleness seems to be misplaced here.

Why would Getz do this? Well, his rationale is listed on p. 90, and I find it interesting and compelling. "Note that the English phrase 'able to teach' is surrounded by words that describe not skills but qualities of life. In his communication, Timothy was to avoid arguments. He was to be kind to all people . . . He was to be patient even when falsely accused and personally attacked. He was to correct those who opposed him in a gentle manner. Note: Sandwiched right in the middle of these qualities of life is the phrase 'able to teach.'" In his writings to Timothy, Paul gave us a very clear and functional definition of this quality of maturity. To be able to teach means that we must learn how to communicate with others in a non-threatening, non defensive manner." And so his argument goes.

I love the way Getz brings out the context of the term didakitos. He is absolutely correct in that Paul is showing Timothy, and all of us, what Christian character looks like. Thus, teaching itself does not exist in a moral vacuum. True teaching can only take place when knowledge and ethics come into line, reinforcing the truths being presented. In truth, knowledge for the sake of knowledge (with apologies to my wonderful mother-in-law who loves this phrase) is emptiness in the long run. (In truth, it is the Holy Spirit who will reveal how accumulated knowledge can be used to further the kingdom.) There must be a practical outcome at some point. I think Getz is right in reminding the reader of this very practical context.

Yet, I am disappointed in the lack of emphasis on biblical knowledge here. Yes, Getz does discuss Scripture on p. 92. And he notes the need for Christians to know God's word and do so consistently. He even gives some practical advice on how to handle the Scripture in everyday circumstances. However, I think one of the key points that Getz is missing here is the importance of right knowledge and understanding of Scripture. Sure, we can debate who's knowledge and interpretation is right, and there are plenty of nuances in that line of thought that I will not venture into in the blog--but will be glad to discuss in responses.

The fact is that Paul knows there a false teachers around who are attempting to undermine the heart of the Gospel message. Furthermore, the letters of 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude, James, and 1 John all touch on the importance of avoiding false teachers and prophets. It seems to me that being a proper teacher involves "skill, abilities, and expertise" (to use Getz's terms, p 89). I wish that Getz would have emphasize the importance of knowing who you are and how you handle the scripture. Maybe it is just the teacher in me.

I did enjoy his thoughts on 94-5. He provides some excellent step on handling scripture when in conflict. I agree with his assessment that Scripture is not a personal weapon, but a tool of the Spirit. When we use scripture for our own outcomes and victories, we will find it to be a burden and powerfully destructive. I think this is at the heart of Getz's convictions in this chapter. He argues that the godly man must humbly handle Scripture with character and dignity, and not as a tool for his own selfish ambitions and to cover his own insecurities.

Measure of a Man: Being Hospitable: The Doughnut Shop

The personal illustration of Getz on pg. 80 captures my attention because I have seen this situation over and over again in ministry. Basically, Getz gives his story on being ripped off by a sad story, and reflects on some tough love that he exhibited to a friend. His observations about the persons lifestyle are to be noted. But, did he do enough to meet the criteria of loving the individual? Did he use his resources wisely, and is that the criteria for obeying God's commands? And what do you make of his last sentence in the section (p. 81)? Is he just making a judgment against the person, and thus an excuse for not trying harder?

What would you do differently?

Where do you draw the line between "aiding people" and "not reinforcing irresponsibility"?

Measure of a Man: Being Hospitable (Chapter 7)

I love the Greek term for hospitable: philoxenon. It is two Greek terms combined together: philos,which means "love" of an equal (like a sibling) and xenon, which is a term for "people." Thus, "hospitality" is exhibiting a care or love for people--anyone who may come by your door or enter into your life.

It seems to me that Getz nails this concept, and has collected some terrific verses to illustrate it. Acts 4:34-35 "There was not a needy person among them . . . for they distributed to each as any had need." Or 1 Peter 4:8 "Be hospitable to one another without complaint." And Hebrews 13:2: "Show Hospitality to strangers."

So, the Scripture shows clearly how we need to act. What points of actions do we need to have? Getz mentions the obvious, "Love." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

But he also hits at the reason why most Christians struggle with showing love. "Thinking about being hospitable may threaten us." Now I have met people that are not in the least threatened by giving their life savings away to people. They have a giving heart and want to solve everyone's problems. These people amaze me--they can always find a way to give and never think twice about the sacrifice. In some ways, this is a most amazing gift!

Yet, sometimes giving money or physical things may cover up the real problem. Hospitality does not enable bad behavior. Hospitality meets real needs through self-sacrifice. The key to living a truly hospitable life is intentionally to meet real needs through self-sacrifice (meaning, no payback expected or required).

I admit that I struggle with this one. It is easy for me to justify a lack of giving. Often times, when an opportunity arises, I am unprepared for it. The key for me is intentionality. Godly people live a life that intends to love others by meeting needs. I believe that in some way the sacrifice of our own personal belongings to a ministry of hospitality is an ultimate expression of Christian maturity.

So, be hospitable, and mature, by presenting your whole life to God--and intentionally planning on using the resources provided for you to make those around you be thankful to God and his provisions along the journey. The goal is not to solve things in the easiest way, but to make all of our resources God's resources; and to let God use us, whether we look wise or like fools, for his glorious purposes.

Measure of a Man: Wisdom (Self-Control)

Getz has me a little confused in this chapter, and I admit I am primarily to blame for my own confusion. Getz takes term sofrona and interprets it as prudence, which becomes the central concept for this chapter--through his English term "wisdom."

The Greek term sofrona (which has a long 'o' sound as its first verb) can refer to sound-mind, which is incredibly close to the previous term for "temperance." Interestingly, Paul groups two very similar terms together, one with an emphasis on clear-mindedness (Chapter 4) and now one with an emphasis on wisdom. It appears that one term calls the man of God to focus on Christ, the other to use the knowledge gained in a wise way.

Getz says "Some biblical truths can be taught with words alone, such as who Jesus is, how to be saved and many other Bible doctrines. But some things must be taught by both instruction and example. In fact, without modeling, some words are meaningless." (p59)

AMEN.

sophrona is one of these concepts that must be lived, not just known.

I wish Getz would have used the term "self-control" here. Getz emphasizes, rightly so, the need for humility, gratitude, and prayer--all of which are signs of wisdom. But ultimately, it appears that Paul is reminding Timothy to put the reigns on the young servants in his churches. It seems that these servants need to place their enthusiasm and energy into the proper channels of ministry and priority. Thus, the servants need to be wise by showing lives that are not given over to excess. Again, this is very similar to our previous chapter.

So, are you keeping your energy and passion in check? Again, a life balanced on Christ will keep knowledge and emotion centered in the divine will. As servants of Christ, we must model the power of a racing horse with the control of a bridle and reins that are firmly placed in the hands of God. In this way, let your light shine before all--servants empowered by the resurrection of Christ, engaged in the will of God.

The Measure of a Man: being sober-minded 2

One more random note from Getz, p. 46.

In responding to a questioner who was concerned about the well-being of America--to the point of saying, "Oh, God wouldn't allow (really bad things) to happen to America, would he?"--Getz responded, "Our hope should not be based on how well things are going in our society. According to Scriptures, we are just strangers passing through (1 Pet. 2:11). . . . this world is not our true home."

AMEN and AMEN!

Measure of a Man: Moral Purity 4

Great Advice from Getz on Moral Purity and avoiding sexual sin and addiction.


1. Communicate with your spouse and/or accountability partner. All of us need someone to keep us honest. It is almost imperative to have an accountability partner of the same sex to help ask the tough questions and keep us honest. Most sexual sin thrives in secret. There must be openness if we are to defeat sexual temptation and addiction.
2. Know yourself and avoid sexually stimulating circumstances.
3. Read Scripture and keep your eyes and mind on godly things.
4. Get professional help if necessary.

The Measure of a Man: Moral Purity 3

Gets (41) writes, "Men should fortify themselves through regular study of the Word of God and prayer. Nothing dulls a desire for communication with God and the study of His Word as much as indiscriminate exposure to illegitimate sexual stimuli."

Are you finding it difficult to read the Bible or hear God's voice? Getz suggests that each of us check our desires. Desiring God can be sidetracked by a desire for self-pleasure.

"And nothing is so effective in combating temptation and lust as an effective prayer life and Bible study program. Thus Paul wrote, 'Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things' (Phil 4:8)." (Getz, 41)

Get out of the ditch and into the Scripture!

The Measure of Man: Moral Purity 2

How do you know when you have gone to far sexually? How many looks is too many? What movies are OK, and which ones are not? What Internet images are OK with God, and which ones are no-nos?

If you have the answers to these, then you are smarter than I. Part of me wants to say that it is up to the individual to determine what he or she can tolerate.

Then I ask myself, "Why am I tolerating anything?" What is the benefit of pushing the envelope on issues that can only lead to sin and the breaking of vows to God, my family, and my church? Do I have to be such an adrenaline junky that I cannot think clearly and safely about sexual temptation and sin?

Getz says, "A man who deliberately enjoys and pursues an illegitimate sexual relationship with a woman in his mind has, in God's sight, already committed an immoral act. This kind of fantasy world is off limits for a man who desires to follow God fully." (p. 36)

Explicit pornography is easy to define, and the enjoyment of it is illegitimate and immoral. However, the road to pornography is paved with suggestive materials that are not explicit. Skimpy bikinis, underwear ads, Victoria's Secrets modeling shows, acceptably rated movies, "artistic" pictures--all of these are culturally accepted presentations of sexuality that allow for the kind of fantasy that is off limits for the man of God and destructive to himself, his spouse, and his church.

How far are you down that slippery road? Turn around now before there is no return.

Measure of a Man: Moral Purity

Chapter 3 is based on the phrase, "the husband of one wife," which has been interpreted several ways, most prominently as 1) faithful in marriage, or 2) as never having been divorced. Probably in its simplest form, literally translated "one woman man," it was against polygamy.

Getz focuses on the first definition and defines the Christian attribute that godly men must exhibit as moral purity.

There are several points worth discussing in Getz approach to moral purity. For me, one point deals with the high calling of the Christian faith. Those of us who claim faith in Christ must realize that he has called us to more than just religion. "Christian morality extends its boundaries beyond the physical act of illegitimate sexual relationships, according to Jesus: . . . 'I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart' (Matthew 5:27-28)." (p.35-36)

Getz goes on to highlight the difference between temptation and lust, but I wish he would have pursued it a little further. In our sexually charged culture, everyone, men and women, are forced to deal with their own limitations and also invited to envy those who have better physical gifts and tools. We thus seek to master our own inadequacies by finding fulfillment, often secretly, by using our eyes and minds.

I do not think this means that every glance is sin. God has still made nature very good, even in its sinful state. Thus, there are many wonderful things, including the opposite sex, that are pleasing to look at. So, I think of it in these terms: The first look is on God--the second look is on me. In truth, it is the second, third, fourth look that get us into trouble. What if Eve (and Adam) would have taken one look at the fruit and kept going. In fact, they did it everyday in the garden. Until one day Satan talked them into a longer, deeper look that turned into longing, desire, and lust. They went from happy in life to wanting something they could not have. And you know the rest of the story. . . .

Thus, our weaknesses provide temptation, but it is not willful sin if we are tempted, just a sign of our weakness. Sin occurs when we give temptation the opportunity to grow into a desire, which leads to actions that go toward spiritual death.

James 1:14-15: "Each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death."

I John 2:16 "For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world."

The desires of the mind, the lust of the eyes, the boasting of the tongue--anyone guilty of these things?

And the Man of God keeps his mind, eyes, and tongue in check.

above reproach

What does this mean? A Christian leader is to be above reproach. Getz says "reputation." Thus, "above reproach" means "cannot be accused of any wrong doing," which means "having a good reputation." Does this make sense to you?

For you Greek scholars out these, the term is anepileepton (the double "ee" stands for an eta). This term is used in classical Greek literature to describe something secure, not open to attack. It describes one's character as blameless. (Liddle, Scott Lexicon) Literally, it means "not failing or falling short."

OK. This is quite a high standard, and I am already wondering if it is possible to attain such a standard. Be blameless? Sound like something only Jesus can do.

Getz tries to lessen the blow by stating that this is "a summary quality, the result of living out the other qualities mentioned in these two lists." (25)

Getz goes further to suggest that Acts 6:3 also points to this "good reputation." However, the phrase in Acts 6:3 is "men full of the Holy Spirit." So, Getz, I think rightfully, associates being blameless with being filled with the Holy Spirit. However, his interpretation of the passage is lacking (using KJV I think).

He does make a great point about the selection process. The Hellenistic Jews were told to select men from among you--some of your own men--people that you know--and have proven themselves in your midst. The Jerusalem leaders shows great wisdom by not forcing their opinion into the matter. Instead, they allow this unique expression of Christianity to form their own leadership with men who have already proven themselves as leaders before they were asked to become official leaders.

I think we get it wrong in our churches when we ask those without giftedness or discipline or actions to lead. Sometimes smaller churches really struggle with this because we have some many needs for leadership and so few people who have the time, energy, desire, or calling to fill the leadership positions.

I have always wondered--do you keep plugging in people into positions, or do you cut back positions until God raises up leaders?

My experience has shown me that plugging people into positions is a great risk--some are not ready or mature enough to handle the people they will be working with. Some burn out to soon. Some want titles of leadership, but don't have the discipline or spiritual maturity to lead in a Christian setting. In addition, we keep supporting ministries that have no leaders and that the church at large is unwilling to take charge of.

However, just try cutting back ancient programs of the church and see what happens to your base of support in the church.

But I digress . . . .

If you are one of those who has a desire to lead in the church, then developing a good reputation--without holes or weakness--is scriptural and important. We cannot say, "I will do whatever I want. If others don't like it, it is their problem." If we submit to God, then we also submit for the sake of his people--many of whom are weaker. Thus, we limit our freedom for the sake of the body.

Let your name and your reputation be well-known. It would help if part of reputation was that we are "full of the Spirit."

Becoming and Overcoming

This last month has been a whirlwind with vacation and staff changes. It is time to focus on some spiritual growth. Anyone want to join me?

There is a great word from Getz on p. 21. "As you evaluate your life, be on guard against discouragement." Getz goes on to remind the reader that Satan will remind all of us that it is impossible to become what God wants for us. We can become what God wants, but not without his power.

Thus, we all need to remember James 4:7-8: Submit therefore to God. Resist the Devil and he will flee form you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

We can pretend to stand up to evil and Satan. However, we only have the strength to resist when we are submitting to God. If you resist God and Satan, you will fall. We must submit to God first. The rest will fall into place.

What do you want out of this study?

For those of you reading along in The Measure of a Man (and if you are not, join us!), p. 22 has some great questions and exercises on it. The one I want to post today, and would like to see your responses on the blog, is this: Write one goal you'd like to achieve as a result of this study.


Well what is it? Personally, I would like to assess my strengths and weaknesses in my Christian maturity and develop the discipline to pray daily about them.


I would also like to see the men in my church develop the discipline of daily prayer--for themselves, their families, their church, and the Kingdom!

Becoming a Faithful Man 2

On pg. 21, Getz writes "While Paul was outlining criteria for selecting leaders, he was in essence saying, 'Timothy, if a man wants to become a spiritual leader, that's great. Just make sure he's a mature man, and here's how you can determine if he measures up to God's standards as a Christian." Getz then concludes that the criteria for those who want to serve God are universal--all Christian men should strive to build these characteristics.



When I look at the list, I am overwhelmed by the sheer number of characteristics. I wonder to myself, "Is this even possible?" Then I hear a still, small voice inside saying, "It is impossible without me. But with me, all things are possible." (Phil. 4:13; Luke 1:37) And I am humbled at the idea that God would make a way for change to occur in me--not because I am able, but because he is able.



Then I read Getz' words describing the thoughts of God on this point (22): "I love you no matter what you've done, no matter where you are in your spiritual growth, no matter what your feelings. I'm on your side. I have not rejected you. You are My child. You can become a man of God, and I'm here to help you."



Ah yes, faithfulness to the task of BECOMING is very "doable" simply because we are called to the task by the One who is always FAITHFUL.

What is a man of God?

The heart of Getz' book "The Measure of a Man" is found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-10. The list of 20 characteristics on p. 20 is discussed throughout the book and is the backbone for identifying "'the man of God' who is 'equipped for every good work.'" (p. 19). 2 Timothy 3:17:

I am not much into lists because they are self-limiting. How can you possibly get all the info in a list. However, the benefit of a list is that it brings key ideas into focus. So, I think we need to take Getz' list as a starting point--and with 20 markers, it is a very large starting point. However, even if we were able to perfect each of these characteristics, we would have to realize that we would not be complete--unique and disciplined and special, but not complete.

And this brings me back to a point in the Getz' text on p. 19. How do we recognize the man of God? Well, is it the list? If so, how do we rate the list, measure it, evaluate individuals based on it, and on and on. To me, the man of God is not someone who will measure up to the list, but who is willing to explore the list and give God the opportunity to work him over. It is about attitude, not perfection. King David is noted as a man after God's own heart. If that doesn't describe a man of God, I don't know what does. Terms like "prophet" and "priest" were also used to describe God's men. And yet, the kings, prophets, and priests of old were all still in need of a savior and sacrifice. They were not perfect.

What does this mean to me? Well, first of all, if David can be a man after God's heart, then I can be also. Secondly, men of God are not measured by what they have done, but where they are going and what they are doing. And to clarify further, men of God are known by what God is doing in them, not by what they are doing in their own strength. THUS, MEN OF GOD ARE KNOW, NOT BY WHAT THEY WERE OR ARE, BUT BY WHAT THEY ARE BECOMING.

So, as I read this book, I find myself forced to deal with my imperfections and my motivations. I also am challenged to re-evaluate my direction in life. Where am I going? Am I leading the way, or is God leading the way? Am I trying to attain certain human characteristics, or am I "after" God's heart?

So, as we venture through this book together, I hope you are inspired to become more than you are today--more like God, less like the world, more into the Spirit, less into material things, more into Christ, less into yourself.

Becoming a Faithful Man

I like the quote that GG (Gene Getz) provides on pg. 18 of The Measure of a Man. He is referring to two business managers who overheard one his discipleship studies. He notes their comments about the list of characteristics of a mature Christian.

"You know, . . . this is the first time we've heard this list of qualifications from the Bible. But we've learned from experience in hiring people for middle-management positions that these are the kind of men we're looking for. We want employees who have a good reputation. We don't want a man who is cheating on his wife or sleeping around, because chances are, he'll cheat the company. We certainly don't want a man who has all kinds of domestic problems. If he can't handle his own family, how in the world is he going to handle people in our steel mill?"

How indeed!

So, think about your own qualifications as a man of God (or child of God for you women out there). We must admit that we are all flawed, and yet God calls us to himself and asks us to serve. Why? Because we are worthy? Nope. Yet, God has a plan, and we are part of it, weaknesses and all.

And so, we are part of a bigger plan--a great adventure with God. And he calls us to be like him--more than we can be on our own. But we cannot be more without giving ourselves to God and allowing him to make more out of us.

Lemons need sugar to become lemonade.
Concrete needs sand and gravel in order to be a solid foundation.
Fuel needs oxygen and a spark before it becomes flame.

What other analogies would you add? And what do you need in order to become the man (or woman, for you women out there) that God wants you to be?

In the end, we need to realize that our current life is a reflection on our savior and our faith. We are called to be more like God. Are we really accomplishing that goal--is it even a goal for us?

I can't get Philippians 3:12: Not that I have already attained this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold for me.

What has he taken hold of? My first impression is my salvation and new nature. He has obtained this for me. Now, as Paul, I must strive to reach the fullness that Christ had already purchased for me in his blood. The victory is won--let the transformation begin!