Shepherds with No Understanding - Day 93

Shepherds with No Understanding

By Mike Stickler

Isaiah 56:11 They are dogs with mighty appetites; they never have enough. They are shepherds who lack understanding; they all turn to their own way, they seek their own gain.

As I mentioned prior, I’ve worked in many sizable ministries and seen some of the ministry-cultural perversions that have happened within. Actually, it still shocks me that some in the church have deviated so far from the concepts of generosity that TV shows now highlight this change. The showcase celebrates the insatiable desire for more.

The superstar mindset in the church today sends a destructive message to the churched and unchurched around the world. The idea of traveling in celebrity-style motorcades, having private dining rooms adjacent to your office – staffed with the highest caliber chef, bodyguards, diamond-studded watches and jewelry, and exorbitant speaking fees and travel needs depicts the Prophet Isaiah’s words in this verse.

But, I speak to those desiring to live a true life of generosity.

I find the celebrity culture - described above - and a life of humble generosity are at enmity with one another. You can’t serve a philosophy that promotes materialism, fame – and it’s trappings – and avarice and concurrently claim to be living a life that is generous. As we’ve studied “For where your treasure so there is your heart (Matthew 6:21, Luke 12:34). You’ll end up serving one and hating the other.

Today’s Generosity Challenge:
Are you serving a ministry as I’ve described here? Do you feel the tug of the HS that this cultural perversion is in opposition to a biblical pattern found throughout scripture? What are you going to do about it?

Write your answers down below.

About Michael Stickler

Mike is an author, radio host, and a highly sought after motivational speaker. His best-selling book, A Journey to Generosity, is widely acclaimed throughout the Christian community. He is the publisher of Generous Living Magazine and writes for the Christian Post, 'A Generous Life' column.