Another Headline

About two months ago, I was faced with a terribly critical choice. I had the opportunity to participate in an absolute treacherous situation, and proudly, I can say that I declined and ran away from the ensnaring things before me. It was until after I had responded by retreating that I realized what it could have cost me. I know this seems like a bit much for a simple blog, but frankly, this is my testimony, so let me have it...

I reacted instinctively, and quickly. I was certain not to linger on weighing what to do or what not to do (usually, if your provided an opportunity to delay in making a decision, its best to treat it as though its not the right thing to do). In this case, to a "T", I reacted perfectly. But what haunted me was the ever-distracting question WHAT-IF??? What IF I had said yes, and moved forward in this harmful pass? The truth is that doing so would have ruined a lot for me. I cannot describe to you how much it bothered me that I had the chance to throw it all away. I began having nightmares and thoughts of being Another Headline about a Pastor, or a Dad, or a leader that messed up and ruined those depending on Him. I just couldn't believe such things were truly capable.

South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford confessed to having an affair last week, and in doing so, he broke the hearts of many. His marriage and family life are in ruins, the people of his state and country are ashamed, and his career is over... All because of one poor decision he made. The idea that one is capable of causing so much destruction is mind-boggling and challenging to me. The last thing I would ever want is to see my name in devastating headlines like these.

It is by the grace of God, and the discipline of my will to listen to the Holy Spirit that I was able to evade. Today, I pray for the integrity of those around me, and those in authority over me. I pray that Men and Women across this world would step up and guard their hearts. My wish is that no one, big or small in society, significant or insignificant globally, or known or unknown in this universe would shame themselves by becoming another headline... My heart goes out to the Sanford family, and I will pray for them as they attempt to reconcile.