What’s Your V.I.P. Status?
Truth be told, mankind has always been seduced by ways that separate “The Haves” from “The Have Nots.” This is why a V.I.P., or Very Important Person, status is coveted by many including Christians. This worldly trend has saturated all forms of social culture, from movie premieres, concerts, theatre, Clubs, Award ceremonies to famous theme parks. This term is defined as “a person who is afforded special privileges due to his or her position or wealth.” And yet, Romans 2:11 NIV reminds us “God does not show favoritism.” So, the question is why should we?
Occasionally, we hear stories of celebrities, politicians, and athletes who succumb to what’s called the VIP syndrome. This condition occurs when a “perceived” VIP uses his/her own status as an excuse to act rude, demanding, and ungrateful to dedicated fans, staff or volunteers. This shameful behavior has even slithered its way into some of our most beloved churches.
As Daughters of Christ, we must never allow ourselves to fall into the V.I.P. syndrome, particularly when we live a life that is blessed more than others. 1 Chronicles 16:25 NIV says, “For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; He is to be feared above all gods.” Did you know gods is another name for idols? An idol can consist of anything or anyone that we place above God, such as a movie star, famous singer, husband, boyfriend, child, job, or even ourselves. Having confidence is one thing, but it’s another to be self-centered. Sure, all of us, including me, enjoy great seating, special access, and a No-Wait Policy. However, we should never allow a privileged and blessed lifestyle to justify ungodly behavior.
Ultimately, Beloved, instead of celebrating the antics of a vain and self-absorbed society, we believers should focus on behavior that pleases God. And just how do we do that? By rejecting any tendencies to glorify ourselves, or anyone else, regardless of their title, success, or wealth. To be clear, we should indeed give credit to those who have achieved much through their sacrifice. For example, our parents who raised us, child that graduated, our Pastor and First Lady, that niece who just became a doctor, nephew who is now a lawyer, etc. You see, it’s one thing to honor and congratulate someone, but something entirely different to worship them. We should, instead, only save our praises for He who is great and worthy to be praised. Then and only then, will we gain the V.I.P. status that truly matters most, one that is Victorious In Praise for God, not a mortal person.
