Are You Ok With Second Place?
Sunday, February 18
Acts 1:23-26 (NIV)
“So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias, so he was added to the eleven apostles.”
Devotion
Our fallen human nature always wants to be first. Even when we read the above passage, we tend to think that God chose Matthias to be an apostle, because Joseph was somehow inferior. But perhaps Joseph had a more prophetic, pastoral, or evangelical heart. Perhaps Joseph was so delighted in the privilege of sharing in the ministry of Jesus that he could be fully content with a less public ministry. Joseph accepted his non-apostolic role gracefully.
In contrast, consider the sage and advisor to King David, Ahithophel. (2 Samuel 15-17) Ahithophel joined Absalom in rebellion and advised Absalom on how to defeat David. But, not being capable of accepting defeat, he hung himself rather than repent of his treachery when he saw his advice was not followed.
Blessings come to those content with God's calling and fellowship. In contrast, those longing for more money, more status, and more power will pierce themselves with more grief.
Today’s Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please forgive me for the times I have compared my calling to others. Your Word says that You ordained me before I was born. So, Lord, I ask that You help me to walk into Your calling and help me to reconcile godly relationships and work in unity with others in what You’ve destined for them, that together we can fulfill Your command to go into all the world with Your Word. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Is there someone in ministry from whom you have distanced yourself because you felt your calling didn’t measure up to theirs? Don’t let bitterness stop you from the call God has on your life. Determine today to reconcile godly relationships and work in unity with others so that each one can fulfill their calling. Remember, it doesn’t matter who has the lead role because it’s about leading others to Christ.
Resources:
- Resist the temptation to stop climbing because you feel others are more useful than you. Watch the message, “Don’t Settle, Keep climbing,” and let it inspire you.
- Get plugged into the various Serving Opportunities we have available for you, here at Free Chapel.