When we try to impress the people, we consider to be important, we become trophy collectors. ‘I’m more important because I know this famous person’ is how our thinking goes. And all kinds of objects can become trophies: our grades in school, the houses we live in, people we have impressed, our looks, clothing brands, compliments, and promotions. There are even websites you can visit to look for a trophy wife – a woman whose beauty is a tribute to her husband’s wealth and influence. A trophy is anything you own that causes other people to look at you and say, ‘Wow!’ But living for trophies leaves you empty, unhappy, and tired. They bring a momentary happiness that can be addictive, but the enjoyment always dwindles. It’s notable that in heaven, when images like crowns are used, instead of wearing them, people are casting them at the Lord’s feet. When you give the triumph, admiration, and honour away, they bring you joy. When you collect them, they dull, fade, and become a burden. That’s why the Bible says: ‘The twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying: “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created”’ (vv. 10-11 NKJV). Anything good you have, anything good you are, and anything good you will receive in the future all come from God. So, be sure to give God all the glory.

© 2024. Written by Bob and Debby Gass. Used by permission under licence from UCB International.