Self-Denial 2023: Servants & Masters

Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time?

Matthew 24:45 (NIV)

It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them.

Luke 12:37 (NIV)

'Well done, my good servant!' his master replied. 'Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.'

Luke 19:17 (NIV)

In the four Gospels (NIV), the words 'servant' and 'master' appear together, spoken by Jesus, 31 different times. The importance of this relationship is of great significance to our King. Therefore,we must examine it closely.

 The world esteems and rewards its masters. Many of us would like to become one, so we study earth’s systems and values. Consider its need-to-knows and must-do’s:

 Money is king, so we must follow him. Success is a crown, so we must show it. Beauty is a hook, so we must sparkle. Titles are like robes, so we must wear them.

 In the desire all of these status symbols, we choose paths, jobs, friends, and even churches. As Christians: how do we judge good pastors? By their fruits: everything listed above. Plus, exceptional oratory gifts and a working knowledge of the Bible…

 To be an obvious success story, an upwardly mobile professional. Through many Shine years, I chose that path, too.

 But Jesus Christ called Himself a Servant: 'The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His Life as a ransom for many' (Matthew 20:28).

 And us? People who call themselves Christians and dare to walk in roles as His shepherds? 'Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, 'Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all' ' (Mark 9:35).

 Therefore, any and all Christian leaders… must deny their own self-aggrandizement and the world’s definitions of success.

 They (we) must deny ourselves as masters and affirm ourselves as simple servants. If He chooses Because the greater our call as leaders, the greater our call to humility.

 Instead of climbing earth’s ladders like stars, we must become the ladder for others, extending ourselves that others may rise. Jesus did.

 The foundation of our elevation is choosing the life of a servant. Its evidence is denial of self.

Self-Denial: Servants & Masters (Part 6)

NOTE: This is a 2022 update of a 2012 Carey Lewis Devotion. You may see notes to 'Actors, Models & Talent for Christ.' If you think you're not in show business, think again. Shakespeare said, 'All the world's a stage and all its men and women merely players. Mostly true. But you're not merely players. You are messengers and ambassadors for the King of kings.