Author's Note: Much is influencing us these days; our culture, our government, friends, family, but, what about the influence of God on our lives? Shouldn't He be influencing everything? Even the most mundane activities should be under His influence. So, my question for you is R U Influenced?
The pictures of past
girlfriends stood beside the flat-screen like a proud hunter’s trophies above a
mantle. The photos were a
less-than-subtle reminder of past romantic conquests; however, his current
girlfriend was, he thought, different.
She was special. He, at
times, even allowed himself to think that she could actually “be the one.” And tonight would be memorable. He had invited her to his apartment for
a meal that he would prepare himself.
He would dress sharply. The
mood would be set by soft music, candles, a neatly appointed table and those
pictures of old girlfriends…whoa…just a second…hold it…pictures of
ex-girlfriends?? Would he actually
keep those pictures up for his new love to spot? Of course not.
The photos would most certainly not be appreciated by his new love. Obviously, out of respect for his new
girlfriend, he would destroy the pictures, or, at the very least, tuck them out
of view for the night.
No man in his right mind would keep such photos up when he is trying to convince a woman of his loyalty and love. Yet, how many people invite Christ into the “apartment” that is their heart, but will continue to hold on to other “gods” from their past? Why would a person be more worried about offending a special lady than he is of offending the God of the universe?
I recently spoke with a twenty-something who had just begun a relationship with Christ. He asked me whether or not he should remove the Buddha statues from his apartment now that he was serving Christ. The answer was obvious, and God himself addressed it, when he instructed us in Scripture to “have no other gods before me.” In reality, the “gods” that you place before the true God may not be images of Buddha, but these “gods” may be personal ambition, personal plans, a flashy car, a job, or even a relationship. If Christ is in your life, such things cannot stand as being before or even equal to him. Christ requires that we serve him alone and not money, ourselves or others. You may have invited Christ into the apartment that is your heart, but isn’t it time to get rid of the pictures?
My Thoughts: Take a moment to consider your own life. Do you put God first? Do you consult Him before you purchase that new car? Go on a date? What are you holding back from Him?
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By Wade B. Mumm, PhD
PS - I endorse these websites, check them out: www.allengroupe.com; www.influenceliving.com; www.greenewaychurch.com.