"Boaster" Seat

This post may not prove popular, but must be brought to light. Many movement ministries have fallen into the deceptive practices of the world when advertising conferences, events, and ministries. Many of us have subconciously allowed competitive lingo and behaviors to direct us when trying to rally crowds to attend events and support our endeavors. Ministries even "stretch the truth" (Ok, outright lie!) to make the ministry seem larger or more powerful than it is. Power does not have to announce itself. True power illuminates its surroundings to the point that others will express how bright the light is.

Jesus told us that if He be lifted up from the earth, He would draw all men to Himself. This does not mean that we cannot let people know what is available to them with flyers and announcements, but let's make sure not to step on the toes of fellow laborers when doing so... Time for a spiritual motives test!

For instance, if we use the words "Best," "Biggest" "Most Anointed," or other descriptives words that imply superiority, we are heading to the danger zone. When we think we are the best or most excellent/popular/requested, the spirit of pride has already taken a foothold in our ministries and destruction is around the corner. Someone else may categorize our ministries in this manner, but if we are walking with the Lord, we will maintain a spirit of humility and not use the accolades of others as bragging rights.

This reminder also extends to our ministry biographies and website content. When we imply that we have the greatest ministry, we diminish the glory of God from shining in our lives and ministries. Years ago, one of my best friends read my online ministry and immediately told me, "When I read your bio, all I see is I, I, I!" Instead of arguing with her, I took a look at my bio and discovered that she was right! Although it was not my intention to magnify myself, I realized that I was following the world's pattern of self-introduction. I revised it immediately. It now says that GOD has blessed me to... HE directed me to... The LORD has opened doors for me!

For many of us, it is time to take another look at the written and spoken words that we use to describe ourselves and ministries. Yes, God uses people, but without Christ, we can do nothing. Let's take some time out today to review how we present ourselves to others to reveal if we are glorifying God or ourselves.

(New King James Bible Version)

Psalm 100:3
Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

Proverbs 27:2
Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips.

2 Corinthians 1:12
For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you.

2 Corinthians 12:6
For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me.