Thursday, November 18, 2010
BIBLE IN A YEAR: Isaiah 60-63 and 1 Timothy 2
BIBLE IN A YEAR: Isaiah 60-63 and 1 Timothy 2
THE LONGING FOR GREATNESS
SCRIPTURE READING
Matthew 19:30 (NKJV) But many who are first will be last, and the last first.
Self-promotion is so much part of our society that it’s difficult to recognize it in our lives. Even the disciples were caught up in this. In Matt 19:27 Peter reminds Jesus that he has left everything to follow Him and asks “What then will there be for us?" Peter was manoeuvring for position…reminding Jesus of everything he gave up…so, when’s pay day??? But Jesus responds “But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Jesus turned the entire leadership structure of the world, the entire path to greatness, upside-down. The calling to greatness is issued to every human being. Jesus knew that many people would not resist the temptation to self-promotion. While pushing their way to the front in this life, they will find themselves in last place for eternity. There is a dynamic relation between our behaviour in this life and our role in the age to come. Our attitudes, our deeds, our character and much more that we have developed in this age will be carried over into the next. Live your life as one destined to be a king in the age to come by exhibiting humility to all people in all situations. Greatness is your destiny, God wants to give it to you.
PRAYER AND MEDITATION
1. Are you caught up with self-promotion? Are you manoeuvring for position, waiting for your “pay-day”? Are you willing to give up position, power, and prestige in this life in order to gain an eternity of greatness with Jesus?
2. In listening prayer, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you an area in your life where you have been putting yourself first. Ask Him what He wants you to do in order to take the position of humility and servanthood.
3. Spend some time praying about these truths, soaking in them
