My friend Greg is a great athlete and runs his own chiropractic office where he caters to the Christian community. He is also involved in professional hockey trying to become the Tampa Bay Lightning’s chiropractor.
Last summer, Greg invited me to his church where I enjoyed an energetic service among a great congregation. I met his wife and two daughters which truly complete the man I met on the beach.
At first glance, he seemed like an all around good guy!
More recently, Greg showed signs of giving to temptation. During a beach volleyball match, his teammate Damian could not resist commenting on the pretty girls walking back and forth behind the court. Some of Damian’s remarks were unrespectful and simply uncalled for.
I asked him “Let me guess, single and looking right?” Damian replied “That obvious huh?”
Greg followed with “Married AND looking!” which started a series of comments who showed a side of Greg I had not witnessed. What followed was not only disrespectful to his wife and daughters, it was a slap in the face to our friendship.
From cursing, gloating and conniving to selfishness, condescending and plain rude attitude, Greg went from Christian to Jerk in a flash.
Dishonoring his marriage, defiling his own daughters, Greg got caught in “a minor league game” he was no longer allowed to play. Once you make it to the pro’s level and get to play for the best team ever or “The Christians”, there’s no going back!
Turning your back on your spouse and children often results in scars deeper than the eye can see. The best way to avoid such pain is to keep walking with God and to follow in His footsteps reminding ourselves how truly fortunate we are to have all that God allows us to have.
I plan on addressing these issues with Greg and let him know how disgusting it was to witness a Christian friend drown the most wonderful gifts he has been given in unholy water.
Marriage is not only an institution, it is a blessing! We all should honor our spouses and our children. Those of you not involved in marriage or parenting should make a point to look out for the weak or lost sheep. A friendly reminder pointing out bad behavior or ungodly comments should be on your list when God needs you to fulfill your mission, we are all in the same boat and could greatly benefit from each other’s wisdom.
Never forget how lucky you are. Always remember you have a role to play in other people’s lives. Use the Lord’s strength and make a difference when called to step up to the plate!
Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives
And for allowing us to respect and honor you,
We thank you for playing such an important role
And for inspiring us to do the same in other’s lives.
Lord father we pray you will continue to look over us
Our families, our friends and those in need,
And ask you to lead out footsteps and guide us
When we are faced with indecision.
God we know we have a role to play with those around us
And ask you to put us to work for you
One person at a time, one step at a time
So we can fulfill the mission you have for us.
God we love you and thank you for all that surrounds us!
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
