ByBeing great is something to daydream about. We see it on social media, read it in stories, and even hear it in the Bible. It is not evil to long to be great, whether it’s greatness in wealth, academia, or even kingdom business, to mention a few. However, there is a greatness that surpasses every kind of greatness you may want: greatness in the kingdom of heaven. And guess what? God has made provisions for that. Today, we will talk about about becoming great in the kingdom of heaven.
Humility – become like a child and serve
People define greatness as having plenty of physical possessions, high social status or influence. That is true in the world. However, Jesus didn’t define greatness in relation to these. If you would be anything in the kingdom of God, it depends on what happens in your mortal body here on Earth.
Jesus Christ set out two prerequisites for becoming great in the kingdom of heaven. First, he told his disciples that they needed to become like little children in order to enter the kingdom of heaven (see Matthew 18:4). In essence, only those who humbled themselves like little children would be considered the greatest. Second, in Matthew 20:26, Jesus Christ mentioned another requirement for greatness in the kingdom: “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” Therefore, humility and service are key to achieving greatness in the kingdom, as exemplified by Jesus washing His disciples’ feet in John 13:1-17.
Humility is the key to greatness in the kingdom. However, it’s worth considering whether humble children know this truth. It’s important to note that humility should not just be driven by the desire to become great in God’s kingdom. But in your humble service, you should love, be lowly and be forgiving. You should be humble and serve because Jesus Christ said you should. And where it isn’t easy, you should have it in your mind that your reward is greatness. Become like a child and serve rather than wishing to be served.
Remain close to Jesus
In many instances, I’ve observed parents encouraging their children to watch affluent individuals closely during family or public gatherings and instructing them to approach these individuals at the opportune moment. When the children stay near those people, they are often able to receive money or gifts. However, if they fail to remain close, they risk losing out. Similarly, you must remain close to Jesus and not allow anything or anyone to hinder your relationship with Him. Keeping close to Jesus is essential for every believer to gain new insights on staying humble as one serves in the kingdom.
Without Jesus, you cannot do it. So remain close to Him as He empowers you to be humble like little children in God’s kingdom. Through this, you will be among the great people in God’s kingdom because you’ll impact many as you serve. You are blessed!
