Do you like it when people honor you for doing something well? Do you seek recognition for extraordinary talent or achievements? Are you frustrated when others are presented with awards? Have you realized you are called to be humble?
We see people put on pedestals for their achievements. Our society is constantly looking for someone who does something extraordinary. We are encouraged to take on the challenge of achieving a rare feat. The world longs for someone to worship.
We see it in the sports arena. There is the “Play of the Day.” Highlights of the game are shown repeatedly. We see it in the academic world. We are amazed by people to climb their way out of poverty to be CEO’s. There are even stories of people who overcome horrible accidents to achieve amazing success.
Though we long to see and hear of people who do amazing things, we often fail to think about how they were able to do them. In many cases, the achievers spent years of hard work and practice to reach the pinnacle of achievement. This is what the world tells us we must do to achieve a high status.
There is nothing wrong with working hard. In fact, we are told we are to work with all our heart, as if we are working for the Lord (Colossians 3:23). That means we are to put forth an honest days’ work for our pay. But that’s the catch, isn’t it? Putting forth a good effort only earns the pay we receive. It doesn’t get us the recognition we want.
God has a different plan for us. His plan is to lift us up. What do we need to do? We are to humble ourselves. That is certainly contrary to what we hear from the world. But think about it for just a minute. Who do you remember the most? Who is you hold in high esteem for years or perhaps your entire life? It is the person who has sacrificed themselves for the better good. It is the person who taught you about life. It is the person who has humbled themselves before God, taking on the task He assigned to them. In most cases, it is a parent or grandparent.
God has a plan for each one of us. He desires us to humble ourselves and pursue His plan. When we do, He will lift us up. Not with ten minutes of fame, but with eternal honor. Have you sought God’s plan for you?
I pray we all seek God’s plan. I pray we humble ourselves before Him. I pray each one of us choose to work with all our heart as though we are working for God. Humble yourself. Wait for God to lift you up. Trust His promises. Choose God’s plan for you.
Matthew 23:11-12 The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Marty Pressey 