Giving one’s life to Christ usually entails leaving past lifestyles behind in exchange for a new, refreshing lifestyle. But what if your past lifestyle is your livelihood, the way you provide for your family? Many celebrities in the world of entertainment have tried to find a happy medium between socially accepted spiritual practices (openly claiming Christ in words and actions), and keeping up with the demands of their secular careers.
One shining example of this inner struggle is renown funny man Steve Harvey. He is best known for being the brainchild of the comedy juggernaut “Kings of Comedy” show. Harvey’s comedy routines in the past were famous for being profanity-laced, yet hilarious. His popularity as a comedian led to opportunities in the television and film realm, including Harvey having a successful self-titled comedy sitcom. Most recently, he has become the host of an American classic, the Family Feud game show.
At some point between his appearances on iconic comedy show “Def Comedy Jam” in the 90’s and his hosting gig on “Feud”, Harvey made it known to the world that Christ was now the pilot of his spiritual airliner. He has since hosted many Christian concerts and events, and has made appearances on Christian television shows such as “Praise The Lord” on the Trinity Broadcasting Network. On that show, (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkybh5XwUQk) Harvey broke into tears (of joy) while explaining the transformation in his life since he gave his life over to Christ. Harvey, while being interviewed by gospel music great Donnie McClurkin, explained that there is an inner and outer struggle for secular entertainers who have Christ in their lives. Harvey gave the names of larger-than-life icons such as Patti Labelle, Whitney Houston and Lionel Ritchie as people who are followers of Christ.
No matter what Christian society lays out as acceptable principles for outward appearances, Steve Harvey and other Christian secular celebrities are an example of the inward Christ that matters most in our daily walk.
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