Promotion to Servant
8-13-04

In the business world, a good job title and description can be extremely valuable. We often evaluate one another, and evaluate our own level of "success," by the significance of our title and the importance of our description. We seem to have a great need to be esteemed; and employees have even been known to trade an increase in pay for a more important title.

The Apostle Paul received his call into God’s service in a very dramatic fashion. While traveling on the road to Damascus, "A light from Heaven flashed around him" (Acts 9:3). Jesus spoke directly to Paul and told him exactly who He was. A few days later Jesus said Paul was "My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel" (Acts 9:15).

With this endorsement, Paul could have chosen any title he wished - maybe "God’s Chosen Instrument" or "Chief Name Bearer of The Almighty." After all, Paul’s new boss was the Creator of the Universe.

But once Paul developed a close relationship with Jesus, he saw Him as one who was, "In very nature God" (Philippians 2:6). But at the same time, Paul saw Jesus as one who "made Himself nothing, taking on the very nature of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). With this type of role model, Paul was proud to receive his new title.

Romans 1:1
"Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God."

There is no greater title in God’s Kingdom than: "Servant of Christ Jesus" - no more significant job description than: "Set Apart for the Gospel." Once Paul understood how Jesus lived and obediently served all the way to the cross, he rejoiced and devoted himself to serving with every last breath; "I will very gladly spend for you everything I have and expend myself as well" (2 Corinthians 12:15).

It’s understandably difficult to maintain the walk of a servant. All our worldly training tells us to climb higher and achieve more; but God calls us to love Him and humbly serve as His Spirit leads - nothing more, nothing less. We have been set apart for the gospel, and our lives are to be lived as Christ living through us. We always fall short of God’s plan when we attempt to promote ourself and take control.

There are many openings in the Kingdom of God, but there can be only one job title and only one job description. Our Heavenly Father has called and offered a permanent promotion which far surpasses anything this world could ever offer. Let’s put aside our "need" to be in charge. Let’s humbly bow and proudly accept the promotion to Servant.

Have A Great Day!