What is true greatness? In life there is a push and strive to be great – to make something of one’s self. God has given us the resources to accomplish amazing things. He even told Abraham He would make his name great (Gen. 12:2). The question is, what is the driving force behind your effort and when does it cross the line to becoming prideful? You might say to yourself, “I decided to make that wise investment or I worked hard for all I have." Even in the times you lower yourself like, "I don't buy the expensive brands because I don't need that or I won't ask anyone for help." Maybe we don't realize it but most of the time we say these things to make us feel better about ourselves; to be elevated, which is pride.
I have struggled with pride in both forms. So much so, I get sick of myself. I strive to have Christ's humility but seem to always cross that line into pride. He is the ultimate example of true greatness. He is the king of glory! Yet, the very nature of Christ was to be the heavenly Fathers humble servant on earth.
"...whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be a slave to all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life—a ransom for many.” ~ Mark 10:43-45 (HCSB)
The driving force here, behind becoming great for the disciples, was to be the one out of the twelve to sit next to Him on either side of the throne, in heaven. Christ instructs his disciples that true greatness is to be a servant – minister to others by putting your own self last. He uses himself as the example, God's son, who is worthy to be served, but came only to minister. He humbled His kingly rights for our benefit when, He; who had no sin, put on our sin and sacrificed himself on the cross – all in service to us so we would have eternal life in heaven. This is true greatness!
Do you need to redefine your definition of greatness? With the knowledge that it's not by achievements that your saved but, through Christ's sacrifice (Eph. 2:8-10; Gal.2:16-21), is your driving force in life to be a servant for Christ? This means everything you do or accomplish has the perspective that it’s all God’s – for His glory. Just remember who it all belongs to in the first place. Abrahams name did become great but God was the one who made it that way. It was for His purpose to establish His nation for His glory. He is sovereign over all the heavens and the earth.
This week, be conscious of how many times you say the word “I” in a conversation, and the context in which it’s used. Is it bringing God glory or you? Let go of striving to be great for yourself or even for others. Let go and let God have the glory. There is less pressure and stress when you’re in the hands of the one who is truly GREAT!
“Jesus, my savior, you are sovereign! Thank you for dying on the cross for my sin. Please forgive me of my pride. Use my achievements and goals for your glory. I let go of my pride to you."
© Carol Outhous Jones 2014
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