Read Matthew 23:1‑12.

"But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant" (v. 11). 

          According to C.S. Lewis, "Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it's thinking of yourself less."  A pastoral couple we know was assigned to a generously respectful congregation.  They had been reared in middle-class homes and were not comfortable with their new church's policy of seating them, front and center, at a "table of honor" at church gatherings.  They avoided this practice by helping serve refreshments or "working the room" to meet and greet as many people as possible, especially visitors that were often present.  Soon they noticed a new interest and sense of belonging among several in the congregation.  The couple gratefully attributed this, in part, to their god-given preference for being among and alongside, not exalted above, the people.

One debate focuses on which comes first: honor or servanthood.  Does one serve to become greatly esteemed, or does great character naturally focus on serving? Our verse seems to indicate that, in God's order of things, they "go hand in hand." Greatness of character flows outward in a rising tide of loving and beloved servant leadership.  Natural greatness finds fulfillment in serving others, and those who gladly serve are a godly model to which others aspire. (Wayne Skeen)

"Humility is not a character trait to develop,

it's the natural by-product of being with Jesus."
- Louie Giglio

 

Prayer:  Father, let me not desire to be thought of as great,

but rather give me longing to be of some good.