Neal and I had the privilege of spending some time with a man who is a talented, well-known speaker, TV evangelist, university board member, and very beloved preacher, husband, and grandfather. This distinguished man spoke of a time when he would retire and have someone take his place. When I made some comment about the difficulty of finding a man brave enough to try and fill his big shoes, he said, “Ain’t no big deal.” He was absolutely serious. He wasn’t being falsely modest, but rather giving me a glimpse of the deep humility that has earned him the love and respect of all who know him. He really is a great man who has done great things and who is admired by a great many, but in his own eyes he “ain’t no big deal.” Just think how having that same kind of attitude could affect our own lives:
When I am slighted or rejected…
When I am ignored, neglected, overlooked…
When I am criticized…
When I don’t get the recognition I think I deserve…
Ain’t no big deal. If we are seeking to be servants of Christ, then HIS notice is all we need or crave. And He does notice (Jeremiah 17:10; Hebrews 4:13). Genuine humility affects other times in our lives, too:
When I am praised or lifted up…
When I am sought after…
When I am awarded…
When I am thanked…
Ain’t no big deal. While those feel-good moments can be gratifying, we know that everything we do is through God’s power and ability for the purpose of growing the kingdom. And prayerfully, we do it all for HIS glory (Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:3). Neither vainglory nor false humility belong in Christian hearts.
Prayer for Today: Thank you, Lord, for exposing us to such a humble servant of Yours. May we all strive to have that genuine mind of Christ.
There is many “Big Shoes” out there to fill but I’m more interested in trying to follow the One that wore sandals and I hope that I’m worthy to do just that. Always enjoy your articles you post. Ken.
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Thank you Kathy, love this!
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