I was participating in a marketing session at a national conference a couple of months ago.  The speaker asked us to introduce ourselves and tell what state we represented.  She then instructed everyone in the room to tell what “image” popped into their minds when the state was announced.

Georgia?  Peaches.  Florida?  Sunshine.  New York?  Broadway.  Colorado?  Rockies.

I proudly announced “Tennessee.”  I thought that the participants might describe our beautiful mountains and lakes.  Or perhaps Elvis and the blues…or the cradle of country music.

“Whiskey.”

What???  Whiskey?  But that was the overwhelming sentiment in the room.  When out-of-staters thought about Tennessee, they thought about whiskey.

I was shocked.  My thoughts and feelings about my home state were vastly different than the opinions and views of others at the session.

It made me pause and reflect on my own life.  What image do I project to others?

If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.  James 1:26

Truth be told, my image needs a makeover.

If we are lucky, we have people in our lives that keep us honest.  People that will straighten us out when we wander astray.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.  Romans 12:2

My prayer this week is to surround myself with people who will keep me from “conforming to this world.”  Those that help me stay focused on helping others…and being a better husband, father, son and friend.  People that pull me aside and whisper encouragement when they watch me struggle.

Let me know how I may pray for you. God bless.