-February 1, 2025-
Good morning beloved, happy Saturday,
“…You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be among you; but whoever desires to be great among you, let him be your servant.”
(Matthew 20:25-26).
Jesus was the greatest teacher, leader, and servant; He always taught by example. He taught the disciples the life lesson of greatness in serving. Jesus said in Matthew 20:28, “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Most people think that greatness is in strength, position, money, possessions, or power. They strive to get ahead by stepping on or over others.
Jesus’ teaching radically changed the world, turning it upside down. Salvation is by grace through faith in Him, and there is greatness in serving others. Before Jesus went to the cross, while in the Upper Room, He got down on his knees on the ground and washed His disciples’ feet. He took the humble, lowly place of a slave. Are we willing to the same?
Paul quoted the words of Jesus in Acts 20:35, “…And remember the words the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘it is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Though this quote is not found in any of the four gospels, it must have been known by the first believers that Jesus had said it.
Serving others is not easy; it requires sacrifice, effort, time, and money to serve others. Our human nature desires to be served, but our new nature desires to serve others. Paul wrote in Galatians 5:13, “For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
Have a blessed day taking the servant’s place; It is the best and greatest position of all. Stay safe and healthy.
The Lord Jesus is pleased when we serve others in His name and for His sake.
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 