The Return of the ME-Monster

It's the summer of 2024, and it is... The Return of the Me-Monster! Like a B-movie horror flick sequel, he (Me) is back and bigger than ever!  
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I explore this topic almost yearly, as the ME-centric topic fits nicely with today's culture.
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Me, myself, and I.  Me.. me.. me. What about me? What's in it for ME?

The Me-Monster cartoon to the left is inspired by a sermon I heard a few years back. It Is about when our self-focus becomes excessive. 

Mr. Me-Monster is an ugly fella; his open mouth resembles an M, and the back of his throat an E. 

And when our motives and focus demonstrate a ME-FIRST attitude, our misfocused thoughts and actions can be just as ugly.

Just turn on the TV, and we see ME-Folk flaunting success, possessions, and attitudes of self-importance everywhere. You don't have to look far to see celebrities, athletes, and politicians out there in front of the camera sharing their pious golden nuggets of 'truth' to the masses, fawning for adoration... all while you can hear the wind whistling through their ears past their empty thoughts.  And this was all before Tik-Tok

​Today's measures of success are the car you drive, your home, your career, a trophy wife or hubby with good-looking kids on the honor roll, and the captain of their sports teams. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with any of these things unless it is the product of a me-monster mentality.

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Even in the Church!

• Beware of teachings that promise health, wealth, and SELF. Calling you to 'Be your best you now' instead of focusing on the worship and loving service to God.
• Beware of churches that offer you a Worship Show and a Pulpit Performance instead of Jesus.

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Personally, I have more of an 'econo-sized' Me-Monster.  My monster does not get identity from a high-profile existence, nor does my life check all the boxes regarding how society measures success. Still, my me-monster is alive, even if he operates on a budget.

You see, I care plenty what others think about me and want me to be viewed as successful. I seek the love of my wife, children, and grandchildren, appreciate my friends, and do not want to be known for my past failings.  

I may set a low me-monster bar when I don't need much to be happy, but hiding my letting failures is still selfish.  Avert your eyes; nothing to see here as we drive past several of Jeff's life train derailments. Oh, look, Jeff sure liked to drink... Oh my, how can he use that type of language and never been a sailor?... and... Wow, look at all that depression & anxiety.

These are just a few of my budget me-monster moments. I claim to be humble and not known for outstanding accomplishments, possessions, or status, but I think that may be a cover, as my fears and worries are also all about ME.

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But we have the promises of God found in His Word that cover all topics, including Me-Monsters. Here are a few scripture helps

• But seek first his kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Mt 6:33 (life is not about ME)
• 'Love God with all your soul and mind and others as yourself.' Mt 22:37 (not ME)
• If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness 1 Jo 1:9 (no more Me-monster hiding)
• For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If you received it, why do you boast that you did not receive it? 1 Cor 4:7 (it's never been about ME)
• Trust the Lord with all your heart, lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path. Pr 3:5-6 (trust the Lord not ME)
  and finally..
• Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Phil 2:3-4 (not a smidge of ME)

My prayer is that you find this annual Me-Monster reminder helpful to realize a life filled with God and others.
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May God bless and use each of us in ways beyond our dreams for His glory, not our own. May our lives build  God's Kingdom and not our own.  And may your day be Me-Monster free.

​Jeff

                     The Apostle Paul lived free of the Me-Monster. ->

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