Topic: A Second Look At Greatness [Monday May 22, 2017]
Text: Mark 10:35-45
Key Verse: “But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister” (Mark 10:43).
Whenever we hear the word “great” or “greatness”, we often think of certain outstanding and revered people. Truly, history has a rich record of notable people in every field of human endeavour who have demonstrated rare leadership qualities, creative abilities, courage, sportsmanship and other skills. God, however, has a different way of looking at greatness. Greatness subsists in serving others and not waiting to be served by others or attaining a position where we think we can lord it over others. Worldly fame, honour and authority can be quite tantalizing, but they should not be our motive in life or ministry.
The sons of Zebedee, James and John had requested privileged positions in Christ’s kingdom. They were willing to suffer for it, but Christ, hinting that they would eventually suffer with Him, informed them that only God had the right of giving such honour to who He would. Christ quelled the resentment this selfish request caused among the rest of the disciples. He corrected them regarding their perception of, and quest for greatness which was based on worldly tradition.
Instead, they were to imbibe and exhibit a humble spirit and readiness to serve others. Indeed, contrary to what obtains in the world, whoever desires to be first should make himself a servant of all. In this case, there is no room for domination and intimidation. Inordinate ambition for greatness and censorious dispositions are contrary to Christian virtues to which we are called. It is a most ugly situation when the spirit of rivalry and position-seeking prevails among Christians.
Believers who manifest such traits, are both ignorant and carnal. We must take a second look at what God regards as greatness. We must, by prayer and consecration, yield to the transforming hands of the Holy Spirit to make us conformable to His holy standard.
Thought for the day: In God’s economy, humility is not weakness but strength.
Bible Reading in one Year: Ezra 1-3
DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.
