The Heart of a HeroExemplo

Conviction

If we want to be a worthwhile hero, we need to be convinced that our lives are worthwhile. That we can make a difference. When a hero’s heart is convicted, it is called to a godly purpose of much greater scope.

Before conviction can become a powerful force in our journey, we have to counter any skewed views we might have about ourselves. Many of us struggle in the tension between two poles of perspective: (1) we don’t think much about ourselves, or (2) we have jumped into the abyss of self-absorption and think mostly about ourselves.

We live in an unabashedly self-absorbed culture. Those who study trends have noticed a dramatic shift in values from a culture of self-sacrifice one of self-indulgence. If you are un-affected by the avalanche of messages that promise personal happiness and success, you’re a rare one. All of us are bombarded by messages and influences that steer us toward self-gratification. If we’re not careful, we’ll believe the societal voices that we’re the center of the universe and that every product or service is designed to fulfill our every dream!

But what about the dreams we are designed to fulfill?

Humility is an essential part of heroic character. It can also be the missing piece for those of us trying to discern our spiritual convictions and walk into our purpose both as a leader and as a committed servant. C.S. Lewis, the beloved writer and lay theologian, said it this way: “True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”

Ponder that for a second.

If we begin with this mindset with regard to humility, we begin with a heart, mind, and spirit geared toward servanthood. We don’t have to be self-deprecating or whiny about what we might lack. We are empowered by thinking of ourselves less and others more, and we are prepared for whatever convictions that God will place upon our hearts.

Each of our paths to this understanding will be different, as will our commitment to actions and choices after we humbly understand our value and role.

We may have a strong sense that we are living a life which uses our gifts and strengths, but it will be conviction that turns the tide of our desires and dreams, so we can understand that we are walking a holy way in our greater purpose.