There is an interesting pattern in conversations, and – surprise, surprise – the Old Testament books of Chronicles and Kings. It goes like this: So-and-so has wealth, power, position, influence, followers BUT they are <insert bad stuff>.
The “BUT” can also be rather minor, or meant to soften a harsh or unkind statement. They all share a common characteristic: they modify or qualify something that was previously stated.
For example, Vladimir Putin is President of Russia BUT he is authoritarian, corrupt, and intimidating. BTW I completely recognize that’s a rather short list of “bad stuff” but I don’t have all day for this blog.
Another example: King Jehoash ruled Israel for sixteen years. BUT…he did what was evil in the Lord’s sight.
How often we note worldly and transient characteristics followed by noting the lack of Godly and eternal characteristics.
How often we strive for the first kind of characteristics while neglecting the second kind.
What’s your “BUT”? And what are you going to do about it?
Just Sayin' 