Great Truth Sustains Us

“To live in the presence of great truths and eternal
laws, to be led by permanent ideals—that is what
keeps a man patient when the world ignores him, and
calm and unspoiled when the world praises him.” —
Honore De Balzac

When I think of what kept Mother Theresa, Nelson Mandella, Dietrich Bonhoffer, Joseph in prison, and so many of my heroes and brothers and sisters lives focused and serving faithfully I can only suggest that they new of what De Balzac spoke. The interesting thing about De Balzac, a great French novelist, who wrote over 100 novels, is that he struggled with great anxiety and a deep desire to become famous and wealthy. Perhaps some of our most profound thoughts and statements are derived from our weakness?

What keeps you patient when you work in virtual obscurity? And perhaps even more important, if you do someday receive the praises of those around you, can you/we remain calm and unspoiled by the praise of others?

Our culture is full of 'self-made' men and women who are 'rugged individuals' who made their fame and fortune 'by the sweat of their brow'. In Franklin, Tennessee we are surrounded by Christian entertainers who have no real friends any more than Lindsey Lohan or Paris Hilton because their 'fame' or 'fortune' has left them isolated and without the ability to have deep relationships with others who can love them and tell them the truth concerning who they really are. It is amazing that we desire fame and fortune at times without counting the cost. If God does grant you/us the luxuries of this world or the approval of men, may we honor the One who provides our gifts and very next breath and 'stand' on 'solid ground' in community and humility.

Thomas Carlyle said: "For every one man who can stand prosperity, there are a hundred who'll stand adversity." That's because hardship limits your options; it forces you to focus on surviving. But prosperity can complicate your life by increasing your perceived "needs", and testing your integrity. Why else would David say, "If you gain... riches, don't... trust in them?"

Should we be afraid of success? Only if it comes without character and a firm foundation and knowledge of who we are and where we are going.