Little Leaguers: Disqualifying Errors
You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness.
2 Peter 3:17 (NASB)
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it… they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty… I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NKJV)
Let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.
James 5:20 (NASB)
In the rich realms of professional sports are major leagues with powerful players… and little leagues with talented children.
In the heavenly realms of the spirit are war-seasoned soldiers with combat savvy… and nursing children with lessons to learn.
In the influential realms of media are mighty productions with major stars… and local churches with shining faces.
Each of these realms has rules and requirements, recognized leaders and chains of command, reigning stars, and numberless newcomers.
In the life and death realm of the Spirit, Christians have one Rule and Qualifier. His Name is Jesus, a.k.a., the Christ.
His code of conduct and sole requirement are summed up in one glorious word: LOVE!
We have one perfect Rule Book: the Bible. Within It are winning instructions for every realm (or mission field) we meet.
Entertainment is earth’s favorite game. It sways the hopes, dreams, and values of fans. Its unseen governing authority is 'The prince of the power of the air' (Ephesians 2:2).
He offers talented participants fame, fun, and the chance to do what they love. But this field is rough. Like a chasm, it swallows the unprepared.
God is calling up His Own special team. They’re actors, models, and talent for Christ… growing in ‘Wisdom, stature and favor’ (Luke 2:52), to rise and shine as His ambassadors, so they can show the innocent and lost the best path forward: 'The Way, the Truth, and the Life' (John 14:6) worth living!
Sadly, some of the Lord’s intended stars have been making errors and striking out. WHY? Because this isn’t a little league game. Talent’s just the start. Much more is needed.*
Little Leaguers: Disqualifying Errors (Part 2)
* Consider Shine’s Daily Devotions as a specialized playbook pulled from the Bible for actors, models and talent for Christ. Consider godly coaches to be your specialized teachers. Consider His Holy Spirit as your Guidance Counselor. He will not call you to His office, because it's not here. But He will come to you. He gives perfect instructions individually and collectively to God's all-stars. Follow Him first.
NOTE: This is a 2023 update of a 2013 Carey Lewis Devotion. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players. Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.