"The greatest among you must be a servant." - Matthew 23:11 (NLT)
Can you recall a time when someone humbled themselves, blessing you in the process? Perhaps someone did something for you that wasn't their responsibility or went above and beyond to ensure your needs were met. How did you feel and respond to that kindness in the moment?
In Matthew 23, we see Jesus addressing the religious leaders of His day and their shortcomings in fulfilling their responsibilities to God and His people. Jesus, God in flesh, came to serve rather than to be served, teaching us what our lives should resemble as well.
The Christian life isn't about constructing personal kingdoms or fostering a self-centered existence. In humility, we seek the best for others, not ourselves. We express compassion and assist people where they are, helping them in their need. We don't act with selfish motives, and we don't expect this life to be all comfort and no hardship.
Jesus Christ paved the way of servanthood for us. Our best life will be with Him in heaven. We use the days we have here and now to build His eternal kingdom and to glorify His holy Name. If we aim to impact people for Jesus, it will likely happen from the position of servant-hearted humility that He taught us to live in daily.
"The Christian life isn't about constructing personal kingdoms or fostering a self-centered existence. "
Tip of the Day
Intentionally look for one opportunity this week where you can lift someone up by serving them without drawing attention to yourself.
Prayer
Jesus, show me the way I ought to live. I seek You as a servant seeks instruction from his lord. I know You’ve revealed Your heart for me by taking my sin and paying the penalty for it all. Help me humbly live from that understanding, blessing others. In Your name, amen.
Pause and Reflect
Reflecting on moments when others humbled themselves to serve you, how does Jesus' teaching on servanthood in Matthew 23 inspire you to live a life of humility and compassion toward others?
How can you intentionally embody the servant-hearted humility demonstrated by Jesus, seeking the best for others and contributing to the building of His eternal kingdom in your daily life?
Considering the highlighted quote, how can you shift your focus from building personal kingdoms to glorifying Jesus and impacting others through a life of humble servanthood?
