The Price of Fame
I recently had a conversation with a colleague about the incredible affect we've had on the world of music. I don't say that arrogantly, but as a radio programmer for over 34 years, it's amazing how many careers have been promoted or squashed by our decisions to play or not play songs on the radio. Inside the industry, we're called gatekeepers. We control the flow between all the music that is recorded and what actually gets heard by the masses on radio. Sure, there are other ways to become successful without radio airplay, but those artists aren't as rich, popular or famous as those who do make it onto the airwaves. Radio is what drives CD and concert sales. It's the engine that drives the ship of stardom. That's why I'm taking daily calls from record label executives and industry leaders - they want me to play their artists' material, and they're willing to do almost anything to make sure I do. in my earlier years, I was offered drugs, trips, cars, women and just about anything else they thought would entice my music decisions.
No, I didn't take any of those things, but the temptation was there. I chose to honor God and as a result, the industry now knows they can't influence me with those tactics. Today, we have open discussions about music and they've come to respect my opinions even more than those Programmers who are an "easy add."
In life, we all have decisions to make. Some may carry large consequences. Some smaller. But all have outside factors trying to influence us. Your choices may not make or break a career, and the incentives may not be cars and trips, but it could be a moment of fame, earning someone's favor, or having good fortune. In ministry life, those influences are often from other pastors or leaders. And the incentive is usually their favor, or them allowing you into their inner circle.
As a Worship consultant, I see so many leaders trying to impress other leaders. So many think if they can get someone like Mark Driscoll to quote or re-tweet them, they'll enter some hard-to-reach realm of confirmation. Not true.
If you're a leader, you need to remind yourself every day that God is the only one you need to impress. And guess what... you CAN'T impress Him. But you CAN have His favor on your life. His rewards far outweigh the favor of other leaders. Do what God has called you to do. Put the work of The Lord first, and you will be rewarded with riches in Heaven (Matt 6:20.) Believe in the Gospel (Mark 1:15.) And Psalm 146:3 says "Don't put your confidence in powerful people; there is no help for you there."
No amount of favor from others will promote you to where God wants you to be. Yes, we want others to respect us. But just like those record execs I deal with, the key to gaining respect from any group of people is to live for God and let others see your resolve and your fruit. Then those men will be knocking on YOUR door, vying for YOUR time and respect.
Live for God.
Jimmy
