The Greatness Trap | Tuesday
Devotional
It’s amazing how quickly we can witness God’s incredible power and then immediately turn the conversation back to ourselves. The disciples had just seen Jesus perform miraculous works, yet their next discussion wasn’t about God’s greatness – it was about their own importance and who ranked highest among them.
This reveals something uncomfortable about human nature. Even in the presence of the divine, we’re often more concerned with our own status than with marveling at God’s glory. We can attend church, read our Bibles, and serve in ministry, all while secretly keeping score of how we measure up against others.
Jesus responded to their argument by placing a child among them – someone with no social status, no achievements to boast about, no platform or influence. In that simple act, He redefined greatness entirely. True greatness isn’t about climbing ladders or gaining recognition. It’s about embracing humility and caring for those who can’t advance our agenda.
When we’re truly committed to following Jesus, something beautiful happens. We stop obsessing over our own importance because we become captivated by His. The question shifts from ‘How do I look?’ to ‘How can I serve?’ From ‘What’s in it for me?’ to ‘How can I help others know Jesus?’
The disciples’ argument seems silly to us now, but how often do we fall into the same trap? How often are we more concerned about being right than being loving?
Bible Verse
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he took the Twelve aside and told them, ‘We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled.’ – Luke 9:43
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life are you still competing for recognition or status instead of embracing the humility that Jesus modeled?
Quote
Do we see how bizarre this is? Do we see how dumb this even appears? All you can see is the greatness of God. You want to talk about who’s the greatest among you, who cares?
Prayer
Jesus, forgive me for the times I’ve been more concerned with my own greatness than Yours. Help me embrace true humility and find my identity in You alone. Show me how to serve others without seeking recognition. Amen.