Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Integrity. Humility. Generosity.

"I'd rather die than embarrass Jesus Christ."

Of all the things Rick Warren said, I feel like that statement was the most powerful. Really appreciate Rick's humility and transparency. He talked about the three temptations leaders face. They are the same temptations Jesus faced in the desert.

The first temptation is lust of the flesh. Satan says to Jesus, "Turn these stones into bread." He was tempting Jesus to use his gifts for self-gratification. And the antidote is integrity.

The second temptation is lust of the eyes. Satan shows him the kingdoms of the earth and says all this can be yours. Rick said the temptation is taking shortcuts to accumulate things. And the antidote is generosity. By the way, Rick reverse tithes. In other words, he gives 90% and lives off 10%. Awfully inspiring!

The third temptation is the pride of life. At some point you can stop building altars to God and start building monuments to self. The antidote is humility. And I love Rick's definition. Humility is not denying our strengths. It is admitting our weaknesses.

Good stuff. I think he'd dead on. Integrity, humility and generosity are the greatest safeguards against the temptations leaders face.

7 Comments:

At February 05, 2008 11:41 PM, Blogger DARREN PLUMMER: said...

Yup, yup... that sucker will preach, won't it?? :-)

It was good to be with you guys, man...

 
At February 06, 2008 12:03 PM, Blogger Jumaine Jones said...

I truly enjoyed the gathering. It's amazing how Rick laid it out the temptation deal. Great stuff. ;-) Thanks for creating such an awesome opportunity!

 
At February 06, 2008 12:05 PM, Blogger aaron dewinter said...

Thanks for sharing those insights!

 
At February 06, 2008 12:37 PM, Blogger christian life said...

It was a powerful day as Rick shared with such gut-level honesty. It was an important day in all of our lives and ministries. Thanks Mark for hosting this life changing event! Leslie and I are so appreciative of the invite. God's Best... Daryl

 
At February 06, 2008 1:11 PM, Blogger Carlo said...

Mark,

I just read the latest A/G ministers letter and Dr. Wood took his entire article to talk about chasing lions plug your book. agthinktank.com also dropped your name a couple of times in today's post. You are definatley NOT embarrassing Jesus. Great to see God working!

 
At February 06, 2008 3:41 PM, Blogger Joseph said...

Like it, love it, want some more of it!!!

 
At February 06, 2008 6:21 PM, Blogger Nate said...

Great insights on safeguards! Thanks for posting them.

 

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