(The Secret of True Greatness)
TO THE BIBLE: Matthew 23:11 AMPC
“He who is greatest among you shall be your servant.”
LET’S TALK
Jesus once described John the Baptist as the greatest of all men born of women (Matthew 11:11; Luke 7:28). Have you ever wondered what made him so great? The answer is right there in the scriptures. One day, John’s disciples came to him and said, “…Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan–the one you testified about—well, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him” (John 3:26 NIV).
John’s reply was: “…A man can receive only what is given him from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, “I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him.” The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:27-30 NIV). This is the attitude of greatness in the sight of the Lord.
In today’s society, everyone wants to be the boss. But you don’t have to be that way, because you belong in the Kingdom of God. Learn from John; he understood his purpose as the forerunner of the Lord so he never tried to stir up a popularity contest with Jesus. He wouldn’t be drawn into competition over baptism; rather, he told them how glad he was to fulfill his purpose. That’s the secret of true greatness. What should matter to you is being great before God, and not in the sight of men.
Go Deeper
Luke 22:25-27; Matthew 23:11-12
Pray
Dear Father, thank you for the unique purpose for which you have created me. I’m excited about your will and purpose for my life, and I declare that by the help of your Spirit, I’m fulfilling your divine purpose for my life without reproach, but with joy unspeakable and humility of heart, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Daily Bible Reading
ONE YEAR
Romans 5:1-11, Psalms 49-51
TWO YEAR
Ephesians 4:17-24, Isaiah 50
Act
Study and meditate on Matthew 18:3-4 and James 4:6.
My Notes
Share your thoughts on today’s article on the TeeVo Review section, go to www.teevotogo.org