The Upside Down Kingdom

God tells us in his kingdom the last shall be first and the first shall be last (Matt. 20:16). Isn’t that opposite of the way we think things should usually be? I guess, that’s the point, isn’t it?
I’ve been struck lately as I watch God use humble, unassuming people. It’s not that the Lord doesn’t use the well-known, but a great deal of ministry happens in places that seem small. The ministry might be run by someone who at first glance is not very impressive.
Some authors, such as Jim Collins in his book, Good to Great have come to realize one of the characteristics of great companies is that they have humble leaders. Dr. Collins was surprised to find that to be true.
When you think about it, we (the church) shouldn’t be surprised that God uses the humble. Jesus came as a humble servant. His triumphal entry was on a donkey, rather than on a stallion.

God Lifts Up the Humble

James encourages us to be humble, as he quotes from the Proverbs.

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but he gives grace to the humble.” …Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.
James 4:6 & 10 (ESV)

That is quite a nudge to not be proud. If you are proud, then God will oppose you! I don’t think anyone wants that. If the proud understood what they were up against they wouldn’t want God to be their opponent. It’s obvious who’s going to win that one.
Many truths in the Bible are counter-intuitive. They go against the grain of much of what we hear from the culture. I don’t know about you, but I find myself sometimes listening to the wrong voices.

May Our Prayer Be

O Lord, remind me that you look at the heart. Remind me that you honor the humble. Make me a humble man (woman) as I seek you!
In His Grip, Dave
DiasoLifeOnTheBorder.org

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