The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.
Matthew 23:11-12

According to this world, the way to get ahead is to promote yourself; convince others that you’re the key person, the most important and the one who should be put in charge. Be sure you get full credit for every little thing you do; in fact, spin your good work for maximum publicity impact.

In the Kingdom of God, the way forward is exactly the opposite. Instead of self-promotion, we’re called to step into the role of a servant.

Don’t try to convince anybody of how important you are, or seek men’s approval at all. Just see what’s needed, step up and do it, not to impress anybody or to advance your self, but just to serve. In fact, if you can find a way to do what’s needed without letting anyone know it was you who made it happen, better yet!

Because God knows the heart. He sees everything, and advancement (whatever that means) is up to Him. Put yourself into a lower position. Take the role of a servant. Consider others more important than yourself. Promote them, not yourself.

Father, every day You set opportunities to serve others in my path. Open my eyes to see the needs, the humility to do what’s needed, and the grace to not crow about it. I am a servant in Your Kingdom, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles