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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Illustrate the meaning of “All that Glitters is Not Gold” (without using the actual phrase or literal example). (01/24/08)
TRIED BY FIRE


Andy was everyone’s favorite member of the Sunday school class. Always there to help the staff, volunteer for clean up days, or to work in Children’s church. He always had a smile, a wink, or a cute made-up proverb to humor his listeners. Even his name had a jovial ring to it that brought a smile to everyone’s face. Everything went his way – all the time. No one suspected that under his charisma and sense of humor Andy had a very superficial faith. In fact, his service to others was actually self-centered. His real desire was not to serve others, but to feel important himself. Although blind to his own faults, Andy was building his own kingdom of admirer’s.

Fred was quiet, consistent, and faithful, but oddly went unnoticed. He almost seemed to blend in to the walls. He worked in the bus ministry for years, not only driving, but performing maintenance on the busses as well with the utmost care and joy. He often raked the leaves at Widow Smith’s house when she was away at the store, because he didn’t want attention drawn to himself. Fred spent hours each day interceding for his pastor, missionaries, and his community. Fred loved God and wanted to show his love for God’s children by serving others. Fred was a builder of God’s kingdom.

Sadly, many believers are so entangled by pride and selfish ambition that they miss the blessings of serving God, both here and in eternity. 1 Corinthians 10:31 in the NASB states, “…whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” and Colossians 3:17, also in the NASB says, “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father”. Without adding to God’s Word I believe we can infer that no glory should go to we servants, but all to God alone.

Remember God’s warning through Jesus in Matthew 7:21 NASB, “Not everyone who says to Me. ’Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter.” Charisma is no substitute for character and piety is no substitute for purity. Are you ready for the refiner’s fire?
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Jan Ackerson
02/01/08
Good job with contrasting these two men!

I'd almost prefer expanding their two stories, with dialog and more character development. Then you can leave off the "lesson" at the end, and let your characters preach it through their stories.

You're a good writer!
Marlene Austin
02/01/08
Good title. Good character descriptions. :)
Laury Hubrich 
02/02/08
Very good writing. I agree with Jan. Let your characters do the telling. Keep up the great work!
Laury
Joshua Janoski
02/07/08
The previous suggestions are good ones. I think it would be cool to hear each of the men tell their own story and let the reader see the contrasts that way. However, the way that it was written was still powerful, and I enjoyed it very much. :)