As we grow older, we tend to become increasingly resistant to the advice of others. The hostile world we live in necessitates a certain measure of guarded caution that we sometimes take too far. When it’s difficult to know who can be trusted, it’s safer to simply depend on yourself. Unfortunately, this self-sufficient attitude can pull us away from God by making us more dependent on the things in this world. We have an enemy who is actively pushing us away from God by constantly keeping us off balance. The truth is, as followers of Jesus, we are never alone, and as children of God, this world is of little value.
You may remember the apostles were concerned with who among them would be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. When Jesus heard them talking, he had to step in and set the record straight.
“And He called a child to Himself and set him before them, and said, “Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:2-3 (NASB)
We are not on our own in this world. We don’t need to be self-sufficient. We are children of God with a loving father who cares for us twenty-four hours a day. Our spiritual re-birth is by far more important than our human existence in this world.
“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12-13 (NASB)
The enemy wants us trying to stand tall in this world rather than embracing our spiritual Father. Jesus told the apostles that success in the kingdom of heaven is dependent on our willingness to humble ourselves before God and serve others on his behalf.
“Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:4 (NASB)
We connect ourselves directly to Jesus when we serve God by serving others. What we achieve in this world beyond our service to others is of little value.
“And whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me.” Matthew 18:5 (NASB)
Our lives take on a new meaning when we separate ourselves from this world and follow the teachings of Jesus. How we respond to the needs of others is a clear reflection of our commitment to being a dedicated child of God. If we truly trust our Father like a child, we will follow the path of service he places before us without hesitation.
“Sitting down, He called the twelve and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.” Mark 9:35 (NASB)
I want to encourage you to fully embrace your role as a child of God. I want to encourage you to rest comfortably in the security your loving Father provides. Most of all, I want to encourage you to fill your heart with love as you enjoy the fellowship of other believers in service to God.
WhatDoesItMeanToServeGod.com
