Being “a preacher” I have often been praised for having done something for someone in need in one way or another. It may be the couple sacks of groceries that come out of the church’s pantry, a tank of gas, some bit of family or marital counseling, answering a Bible question or resolving a faith issue of some sort.

Some such folk have openly expressed what a good guy they believed me to be. I must admit that there have been times when I was tempted to believe them.

The truth is, I am not good. In fact I am at heart, selfish and egotistical. I am also judgmental and impatient, which are a couple of characteristics that do not blend well. In addition to these, and many other alleged virtues, my intelligence and wisdom are not nearly as high on a scale for which some generously want to give me credit.

Seriously, nothing that can be considered “good” that I have done originates with me at all. It is just as Jesus said, “No one is good, except God alone”, Luke 18:19.

Any good that has ever been associated to me, is wholly and completely of God.

The only reason I do anything for anyone else’s good rather than my own is because I know that God would have me do it that way. The only reason I give of myself in any way is because I know that God would have me to give. If I ever seem unselfish or even sacrificial, it is only because I have submitted myself to behaving as God teaches me/us to behave rather than in the way I would really rather behave.

Am I knowledgeable? The only knowledge I have is what I have learned from the Word of God and the workings of His fantastic creation. Aside from these revelations, I am wholly and woefully ignorant.

Wise? The only real wisdom I have ever been able to offer anyone was that which comes from the teachings and principles laid down in the Word of God. His revealed wisdom alone has made it possible for me to appear wise.

No, I am not good; but God is good.

Like a man who is himself lost, I simply do my best to follow the one who knows where he is going and is in fact, the way. In these 58 years he has never steered me wrong.

I invite you to come along.