Numerous times in Scripture, Elijah is referred to as a “man of God” as well as his protege, Elisha. What ever happened to men of God? Last week I was on a mission trip to Panama with our students from Friend Church, riding in the rear of the bus, hanging out with the kids, laughing and playing games, one young man remarked to another, “Pastor Greg won’t play, he’s a man of God.” It hit me…am I a man of God? Really? Am I even close to the man of God that David was? Let alone Elijah! I have been pondering it ever since.
I was involved in a business deal recently that resulted in an invitation for me to attend a worship service with a very popular, world renowned preacher. I was told that I would be given a front row seat with a pass to hang out back stage with the superstar and be given several minutes to meet and greet him. Are there any genuine, humble, yet bold, servant types seeking the face of God anymore?
I was reading Paul’s charge to his protege, Timothy in 1 Timothy 6, “…godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it…Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.”
If I have learned anything about pastors, preachers and leadership in 20 years, I know I have learned this: Men of God are not popular. Many men of God are not liked. Men of God are rejected day after day after day in this world. Men of God find themselves lonely many times like Elijah. Men of God dream of Jesus coming back. Men of God are pursuing God like David. Paul tells young Timothy to go after right living, to be like God, to trust God, and to hang in there with gentleness. Where are the men of God? More importantly, are there going to be any more men of God?
A man of God doesn’t need a backstage pass, a man is ushered into the presence of Almighty God any time he wants with the simple words, “Dear God…”
Comments on: "Man of God" (1)
Amen,,,Man of God ! I never questioned that about you at all, it is very obvious anyone who spends anytime with you, will not only see your heart, but hear it also ! I am honored and humbled to know you friend..