Greatest Potential!

Teens growing up are often encouraged to work toward their “greatest potential.” “If you just believe and work hard enough”, the encouragement goes, “you can achieve your greatest potential and live a rewarding and successful life.” Studying hard and beginning the development of good life skills, a view toward successful living begins to form in the mind and goals are set. When it is felt that this “greatest potential” has been achieved, perhaps what accompanies it is a sense of pride in the position that has then been gained. However, success as defined by the world may not be a reflection of our “greatest potential” at all. The “greatest potential” is something we can all achieve, but only if we are willing. What is the “greatest potential” for our life?

Jesus appears to have defined it as follows:
“THE GREATEST AMONG YOU SHALL BE YOUR SERVANT.” ( Matthew 23:11 ESV)

And…
“And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, ‘If anyone would be first, HE MUST BE last of all and SERVANT OF ALL.’” ( Mark 9:35 ESV)

Jesus also noted the contrast between the world’s view and the perspective of His calling in the following manner:
“(42) And Jesus called them to him and said to them, ‘You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. (43) But it shall not be so among you. But whoever WOULD BE GREAT among you must BE your SERVANT, (44) and WHOEVER WOULD BE FIRST AMONG YOU MUST BE SLAVE OF ALL.” ( Mark 10:42-44 ESV)

I submit to you that if we are not willing to take on the role of a SERVANT, we are not yet realizing our “greatest potential.” Jesus, the greatest One to ever walk the face of this earth, set the supreme example ( Mark 10:45; Philippians 2:7) and we are the recipients of the blessing of His willing SERVITUDE. Having been called to become like Him, we are to be willing to give our lives in selfless service. May that “greatest potential” continually be reached toward.

Have a great day NOT STOPPING SHORT OF THE POTENTIAL GOD CREATED US TO POSSESS!
Carl

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