pDiotrephes, a church leader in the New Testament, didn’t want other people teaching at his church because he wanted to be the best (check out 3 John 1:9-11). Even the disciples argued over who was the greatest, and they all hoped Jesus’ answer would be one of them. It’s human nature to want to be the first, and best, in some way. But Jesus’ answer to His disciples’ greatness-quarrel was quite different, and probably a little ground shaking: ‘He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes a lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven”’ (Matthew 18:2-4 NIV). See, Jesus doesn’t need highly educated speeches, and He doesn’t let anyone be defined by how much prestige they have. What He’s interested in is the trust and eagerness that you can see in little kids. That’s how He wants us to approach Him.br /
Diotrephes wanted to be skilled, a leader, the best in a certain circle… but that can be risky, even with the best of intentions. That sort of power can tempt us to want to protect our own ‘greatness’. But letting go of your own abilities and triumphs, and walking up to God with the openness of a child who has no idea how much He’s capable of? That’s when He can lead you to your true, max-out capabilities, His way, and for Him. /p
pWhat now?br /
What are you great at? Own it, don’t be afraid to acknowledge that you’re skilled. But use that thing for someone else’s good today./p