June 22

But it is not so among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. Mark 10:43,44.

There is a basic instinct within us to be great. Certainly within our own eyes, but especially in the eyes of those around us. Yet, this character is in opposition to the ways of the Lord. When I seek to glorify self I am denying that I am a new creation in Christ. He has spoken about His desire to make us a servant, and He is the perfect example of what it means to serve others. His Holy Spirit continually beckons me to place the needs of others before mine.

As I think back to times where I sought to bring attention to my so-called good deeds, I find myself dismayed. When I made certain that others had seen my achievements, there was hollow reward. They did not praise me enough, and it was as if I had been annoying them to even bring it up. It is wonderful how the Lord can teach us these things even during our futile efforts to re-define success!

Today Lord, I trust you to provide opportunities to serve others. They may come even when I may not appear to be ready, but You will teach me how to respond and yield to Your ways. Thank You for Your perfect servant-hood that is made available to me. Amen.
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