Daily Devotions from the Bible!
Scripture Passage: Mark 9:35 (NIV)
Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
This verse occurs during a moment when Jesus’ disciples were arguing about who among them was the greatest. In response, Jesus sat down—a posture of a teacher—and gathered His disciples around to give them a profound lesson on humility and leadership. In a world where greatness is often measured by power, position, and prestige, Jesus flips the idea of greatness upside down. He teaches that true greatness is found in serving others.
Jesus’ words challenge our natural desire to be first. In His kingdom, the first are those who put themselves last and seek to serve others, not to be served. This wasn’t just a teaching He gave; it’s a principle He lived by. Jesus, though the Son of God, humbled Himself to serve humanity by washing His disciples’ feet and ultimately laying down His life on the cross.
Think of a waiter at a busy restaurant. They don’t seek to be the center of attention, but their job is to make sure others are cared for. They notice what’s needed and go the extra mile, often unnoticed. This is the heart of a servant that Jesus wants us to have. In a world that tells us to climb higher, Jesus calls us to kneel lower.
How can you live out this servant mindset in your daily life? Are there moments when you feel the pull to seek recognition instead of looking for ways to serve others in humility?
Identify one person in your life whom you can intentionally serve today without expecting anything in return. Reflect on any desires for recognition or status, asking God to replace them with a heart that seeks to serve. Offer to help in areas where you usually expect to be helped, whether at home, work, or church.
Today’s Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us what true greatness looks like through Your life of service. Help me to humble myself and seek ways to serve others, just as You have served me. Change my heart so that I desire to be last, not first, and give me the strength to follow Your example. In Your precious name, Amen.
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