You Can Be A Star!

By J.R. Ricks

 Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. Daniel 12:3 

J. R. Ricks

Fame is perhaps one of the most sought-after pieces of earthly glory that exists. Even power is not as popular. Fame is something that more people want than anything – short of money. How many people have waited tables and washed cars in Hollywood, hoping to be “discovered?” How many scientists dream of making a discovery that will record their names in history? How many politicians and TV newscasters and writers and business people dream of being recognized by thousands of others? We used to live near a town full of “stars,” and it was amazing to watch the adulation of the crowds when one of these people appeared. We also used to live in a huge city of three and a half million people. Because I had a little radio show on a popular Christian station, my name became well known. I was always amazed and to be truthful, a little thrilled, when perfect strangers knew who I was!

But even though that kind of “stardom” is greatly sought after, it’s not achievable for everyone. It’s not true that everyone gets “fifteen minutes of fame.” Nonetheless, every one of us can be a “star.” You can. I can. Everyone can. How? Read this verse: “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.”

And you say, “How can I lead many to righteousness? I’m not a preacher or a great leader.” Good point. But first, think about what “leading a person to righteousness” means… since righteousness comes only through Jesus, it means leading people to Jesus. How many people do you come in contact with every day? How many people have you known and will you know in your life? How many of these people are you “leading to righteousness,” not only through the example of your life and through your wise counsel, but through your witness for Jesus? In the average life of 70 years, it can number in the thousands!

So what are you waiting for? Do you want to be a “star?” Go for it! God’s given you the roadmap in Daniel 12:3. All you have to do is follow it. And you will be a star in God’s sight.

Reprinted with permission www.dogwoodministries.org.