“I don’t want to be famous. I want to be faithful.”
Author and radio host Cheryl Martin says we don’t need to pray for more exposure but for more character. She points to the New Testament story of John the Baptist, who was called to minister for a specific season and prepare the way for the Messiah. When John’s followers pointed out that Jesus’ followers were growing in numbers, John didn’t get jealous. He recognized Jesus’ calling and identity. Cheryl shares a paraphrase of John 3:30:
“He’s doing God’s will and I’m doing God’s will. And Him having a higher mantle takes nothing from me.”
John could have decided to work harder, travel more places, and lose sleep in his efforts to get ahead. But he walked in faith and trusted God’s timing. Too many of us take the former road.
“There are a lot of people working overtime trying to be something they are not, because that’s not what God called them to do.”
We can think contentment will come when we’ve gotten one more degree, written one more book, or gained ten more Twitter followers. But that can’t be our goal in life. The drive for affirmation will lead to anger and exhaustion.
“I have girlfriends who are out speaking every weekend. I applaud their success! That’s not what God has called me to do. Has God spoken to me? Yes. I have something to share.”
God led Cheryl to write her book, Distinctly You, in His timing. If He’s given you a message, He’ll give you opportunities to share it – and it may require patience. You may wrestle with contentment because you see other people who have more exposure, more followers, or more opportunities. Remember this – Jesus’ most intentional ministry was done one person at a time.
“Ministry is ministry. If God leads me to call one person and encourage them and I am just as intense with them one-on-one as I am now, I am in the will of God. And I have succeeded.”
We don’t need to be famous to be distinct. Cheryl uses her mother as an example.
“My mother is the godliest person I know – she’s not famous. She has been my role model. She knows God; she is a prayer warrior. She is faithful to the call of God in her life.”
Key Scriptures: Acts 20:24
Featured Songs: If We’re Honest by Francesca Battestelli; Free to Be Me by Francesca Battestelli; Who I Am by Blanca
