What I Am

“What a man thinks within himself, therefore he is” –Proverbs 23:7

Like most of America, I watched golf this weekend. The Master’s is such a fun event. The beauty of the Azaleas and the high level of golf make for a spectacular tournament.

This year was especially intriguing since the world’s #1 golfer, Tiger Woods, was making his return to golf after his confession of infidelity to his wife. Plenty of stones have been thrown his way and since Joey Staples is not without sin, I’m not joining the crowd. Tiger will be held accountable for his life before His Creator. So will we.

But I couldn't help but notice the irony of the Tiger mess compared to the celebration of Phil Michelson, the Master’s champion. I know Phil is far from perfect and has made his own mistakes, but after the victory, the hugs and tears for his wife Amy and his kids moved me. I read he has been focused on his wife and mother and their battles with cancer. He has not had a great golf year, but it all came together on Sunday afternoon. He dedicated the win to his family.

For me, the Sunday celebration was not about golf. By the way, I’m a terrible golfer. I at least learned how to hit the ball straight so I could go out and play with my son, who is an excellent player. But I do appreciate the skill these men on the PGA tour possess. But Sunday, I was appreciating the man, not the golf.

We all work hard to be the best at what we do. But life isn't really about being the best at what we do, but being the best at who we are. My dad had a plaque that hung in our hallway that read something like this, “it’s not what he has nor even what he does which directly expresses the worth of a man, but what he is.”

Sunday Phil was a man of integrity, loving his wife and dedicating his victory to his family. Truth is, I am my best when my day is dedicated to being who I am first. I have worth because my loving Father says I do. And because I have His “good housekeeping stamp of approval,” I am confidant in who I am. Too often I forget who I am. I am a Christ follower, I am a husband, I am a dad and I am a minister.

What are you? I know you have stuff and I know you’ve done a lot, but what are you? Take some time to refocus and remember what you are. Then go and do. Be the best parent you can be. Be the best spouse you can. Let that be what you are.©