Greatness Through Serving

March 19

"It is not this way among you, but whoever wants to become prominent among you shall be your servant, and whoever desires to be first among you shall be your slave.” 

 (Matthew 20:26-27) 

The world defines greatness by power, status, and influence. We are often taught that to be important, we must rise above others, control situations, and seek recognition. But Jesus turns this idea upside down. In His Kingdom, true greatness is not found in power but in servanthood.

In Matthew 20, James and John’s mother asks Jesus for her sons to sit at His right and left in His Kingdom. She desires honor and status for them. But Jesus responds by explaining that leadership in God’s Kingdom is not about ruling over others; it’s about serving them. He then points to Himself as the ultimate example, saying, "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many" (Matt. 20:28). 

For those of us who are looking to better our lives and are on a path of redemption, this message is powerful. The road to healing and transformation is not through self-exaltation, but through humility and service. Many of us spent years consumed by self-centeredness, seeking to satisfy our own desires at the expense of others. Now, we are called to a different path; a life of serving, loving, and lifting up those around us.

Serving does not make us weak; it makes us strong in Christ. It reflects His heart and aligns us with His purpose. The more we serve, the more we grow. The more we humble ourselves; the more God elevates us in His time. 

In what ways can you shift your mindset from seeking status to seeking service? (Hint read 2 Timothy 3:16) How does Jesus’ example of servanthood changed your perspective on leadership?

Lord Jesus, help me embrace a heart of servanthood. Teach me to love, serve, and lift up others rather than seeking recognition for myself. May my life reflect the humility of You, who gave everything for me. In Your name I pray, Amen. 

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Redemptive Recovery (RR) is a Christian recovery group and program that is modeled on biblical truths. We believe that Jesus Christ has the power to transform our lives and that the bible is our roadmap. RR meets weekly and is for anyone currently navigating the challenges of addiction and also those that are further along in their recovery.

Visit www.redemptiverecovery.org for more information.