Pastor Mikes Daily Devotion Monday January 27, 2014 Matthew 18:1, At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” When a position of power becomes available, pride can make anyone a candidate. Jesus had just told the disciples that He was going to be betrayed into the hands of men and killed, and now His disciples wonder who will fill the power vacuum created by the Lords death. Notice that Jesus did not rebuke them for wanting to be great in His kingdom. If you want to obtain status in His sight, the bible tells you how; it gives us insight into what makes for heavenly greatness. First, if you want to be great in His kingdom; be a servant (Mark 9:33-35). This is the sacrificing of self through a spirit of love for the benefit of others. Jesus gave the ultimate example of this as He hung on the cross. Secondly, if you want to be great in His kingdom, you must be converted. Jesus goes on to tell them that a big part of the conversion process is to come to Him as a little child. This is to be totally dependent upon the Lord for your provision, your needs, and your life direction. Thirdly, if you want to be great in His kingdom, you must be receptive. This is to have a heart to receive others as Jesus received you. This is to care for, tend, and nurture those who will not, in fact they cannot, further you or advance you in any way. Just as Jesus received you by grace, so you must do with others. Lastly, if you want to be great in His kingdom, you must be radical (read verses 6-10 of chapter 18). Whatever it is in your life that hinders your relationship with God, eradicate it from your life. Now make sure you are not going around poking out other peoples eyes, or cutting off the limbs of others, but examine your own life. If you do these things, the world will not think much of you, but you will be great in the sight of God. Psalm 119:58–59, I entreated Your favor with my whole heart; Be merciful to me according to Your word. I thought about my ways, And turned my feet to Your testimonies.
Posted on: Mon, 27 Jan 2014 11:00:01 +0000
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