Wednesday, September 7 2016.
Text: Luke 14:7-11
Outline
"When someone invites you to a wedding feast, do not take the place of honour, for a person more distinguished than you may have been invited." Luke 14:8, NIVAt meantime, Jesus observed how the guests were choosing places of honour for themselves. He responded by telling them a parable to discourage His listeners from seeking the most prestigious seat at the table to avoid the humiliation of being displaced by someone of greater importance.
Jesus encouraged His disciples to take the lower place so that they might be elevated to a more honourable seat by their host. Christ, in essence taught them not to overestimate themselves so that they might not put themselves at the risk of public disgrace.
Our society is full of "local champions" who proudly elevate themselves, forgetting that "pride goes before a fall" (Proverbs 16:8) and that "whoever humbles himself the Lord will lift up" (James 4:10). No matter your importance and status in the society, there is always someone more important and honourable than you are.
The paradox is that "the way up is down" and to try to "walk up" is to risk being "pulled down." Those who desire to be honoured in life must be humble and seek lowly places. Even if you think you are important, learn humility because "with pride comes disgrace; but with humility comes wisdom (Proverbs 11:2).
Wisdom: It is better to earn honour than to fight for it.
Food for thought: The surest way up is down
Follow-up Action: Let your lifestyle dictate your worth and let your worth dictate how you will be treated by others.
Prayer: Lord, help me to follow the path of the humble all my life.
Source: The Nigeria Baptist Convention (NBC)
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