Caught Cheating

It was one of those networking luncheons with a great inspirational speaker.

However, before the program got underway, attendees had an opportunity to share one minute about themselves to the ladies sitting around their table. The problem was, not everyone had a good internal timer. Before the conversation got around to me, the emcee announced, “Ladies, we need to stop so we can begin our program.”

But wait a minute. I didn’t get to share.

Difficult for someone who likes to talk, and who speaks for a living.

My friend, Donna Skell, presented the message that day. The topic: “Spiritual Adultery.” You know, those times when you cheat on God. Maybe you skip church, or miss your quiet time or forget to read your Bible.

Then it hit me. I was a cheater.

That morning, I didn’t pray. I read my Bible, wrote a blog, but didn’t lift up one word of supplication to the Lord.

Why?

Because I was in a hurry. I had to get ready for a luncheon.

During the message, I was convicted and prayed silently.

Lord, I am so sorry I didn’t spend time with you in prayer this morning. I deserved to get short-changed on the networking time because I short-changed you earlier today. Will you forgive me?

When Skell, Executive Director of Roaring Lambs Ministries, ended her message, she plugged her ministry’s book, Stories of Roaring Faith, and mentioned that I was the co-editor. Then, out of the blue, she put in a word about my children’s book with Sharon Hill, The Most Powerful P Activity Book and Prayer Journal. The ladies at the table all looked and me and said, “So that’s what you do.”

It was a sign my heavenly Father heard my repentant heart.

It was also a reminder that God is the one who exalts us. He hates a prideful spirit. 1 Peter 5:6 says, Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” We don’t have to brag about what we’re up to. I know I’m at my worst when I feel insecure.

Blah, Blah, Blah.

I share too many details about my resume and I never feel good after I’ve patted myself on the back.

God will chip away at our pride.

While I don’t always succeed, I desire to be the person that is more interested in someone else’s story than telling my own. I want to only share when asked. And I want to live out James 4:10 that says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” When I elevate myself, rather than God, the bragging usually falls with a thud.

What about you? Do you spend more time talking about yourself than getting to know someone else?

Let’s work on this together. Let’s don’t volunteer too much information, without being prompted.

And most importantly, let’s exalt the one who should be glorified, our heavenly Father.