A different kind of success



Bible Reading - Mark 9:30-50

How would you define success? Is it getting straight A’s at school or scoring a spot on the national team? Or does it lie in possessing the 5C’s – car, cash, credit card, condominium and country club membership?

In a society that prioritises results, many pursue achievements that rank them above others. In this game of survival of the fittest, being the best in academics, sport and our careers is everything. Many define success as being stronger, smarter and richer than the rest.

Similarly, Jesus’ disciples were looking to beat one another in the game of “who’s the best” (v34). They desired the recognition that came with the title of Jesus’ greatest disciple. Jesus grabbed the opportunity to teach them God’s definition of success.

Instead of acting like they were better than others, or looking down on those they thought were unimportant (v36-37), disciples of Jesus should serve everyone else (v35). They should humble themselves and place others’ needs above their own. They should be willing to forsake their comforts and rights in order to lift others up.

Jesus is the ultimate example of humble service – He, who is the King of kings, has served the world by giving up His life to save us from our sins (v31). He put aside His divine and royal status to live and die like a servant on earth (Philippians 2:6-8).

But that’s not the end of Jesus! God the Father has raised Jesus up from the dead and has given Him authority over every man and living creature (Philippians 2:9-11). From Jesus’ life, we see that success in God’s eyes is not 5C’s but 1S – servanthood out of obedience to God.

Living the life of a servant may seem like a daunting task. Yet we can have confidence that God will help us. Through the Holy Spirit, He gives us the power to serve with spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). Through the Word, He teaches us the attitudes we ought to have when we serve (Ephesians 4:25-32; Colossians 3:12-17). We can serve with gratitude because of God’s love in our lives. We can take the ‘last place’ of a servant with joy because God has promised us a great and glorious eternity with Him.

How do you define success? Is your perspective influenced by worldly values or godly principles? How can you be a great servant today?

As you spend time on the couch with God, take a moment to pray and reflect on what you've read.


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