September 21: MAN-MADE HEROES

The need for heroes seems to be important in our lives. We want to idolize someone who is bigger than we are or more glamorous or more famous. Some particular part of their lives seems totally beyond our experience and we vicariously experience our dreams through them.
We do not object to their professional treatment by the law or society because in that position, we would expect the same. Some are so blinded by their heroes that they are willing for them to commit any lawless or gross act and still hold their hero status. For example, think of some television stars or athletes who continue to enjoy society’s rewards and approval, even though they have broken the law.
God is not impressed by man-made heroes. This truth is emphasized in 1 Samuel 16:7 and Galatians 2:6. God does not judge or evaluate people by outward appearance. God looks at the heart. God is not impressed by outward credentials of importance written by another man. Money, looks, fame and the like does not change the heart condition.
As long as our heroes are chosen by outward things, we will continue to experience disappointment. It is disappointing when Christians choose as their heroes people whose only claim to fame is material success or worldly fame. Christians ought to know better.
1 Peter 1:24 says, “all men are like grass, and all their glory is like flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of God stands forever.”
If you want a hero, look at Jesus. Model your life after his life, make his values your values. Jesus can give you the wisdom to see through the façade of popularity based on outward things and enable you to choose as your hero people of spiritual depth. They will never embarrass you. Folks who challenge you to be more godly are worth imitating.

“Give us insight, Dear Lord, into the true personality and values
of the public figures that we tend to idolize. Amen”