In Chapter 13 (“The God of Me”), the concluding chapter of Gods at War, Pastor Kyle Idleman states that it’s not a coincidence that he’s left the god of me for last. While we’ll confront many of the gods discussed in his book at some point in our lives, we grapple with the god of me every single day, multiple times per day.
The author describes 4 symptoms that begin to appear when the god of me attempts to usurp Jesus’ rightful place on the throne of our hearts:
1. Arrogance– the belief that we’re always right, that our way is the best way. We’re not interested in listening to the wisdom of others.
2. Insecurity– being consumed with what others think or being terrified of trying something and failing. When we’re insecure, we can’t help but feel self-conscious- because when we’re god, it’s all about us.
3. Defensiveness– taking offense at the slightest suggestion or most innocuous criticism, viewing such incidences as personal attacks. Defensiveness breeds perfectionism, since no one could possibly be in a position to criticize us.
4. Loneliness– the god of me can’t handle equality with others or authority. We need people to constantly reaffirm that it’s all about us.
Today’s question: Have any of these symptoms tended to dominate your thinking following your ministry downsizing or job loss? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Broken cisterns- living water”