The New Life Daily Devotional 14, JUNE 2024 By REV. I.A AGOYE

Topic: Greatness through Humility – Matthew 23:12

Bible Reading:

Matthew 23

Memory Verse:

Matthew 23:12 – “And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.”

Motivational Quote:

“True greatness is achieved not by lifting ourselves up, but by lifting others and walking humbly with God.”

Praise and Worship:

Let us enter into a time of praise and worship, singing songs that glorify God’s greatness and remind us of our need for humility. Consider singing “Here I Am to Worship” as a declaration of our desire to bow down and worship the King of kings.

Prophetic Declaration:

Today, I declare that humility is my path to greatness. As I humble myself before God and others, He will lift me up and establish my steps. Amen.

G.O’S MESSAGE:

In a world that often equates greatness with power, prestige, and self-promotion, Jesus presents a radically different path to true greatness: the path of humility. Matthew 23:12 teaches us that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted. This divine principle turns worldly wisdom on its head and invites us to find greatness through humility.

Jesus’ teaching on humility is a cornerstone of His ministry. In Matthew 23, He addresses the Pharisees and teachers of the law, who were more concerned with their outward appearances and positions of honor than with the condition of their hearts. Jesus rebukes them for their hypocrisy and emphasizes the importance of humility.

Consider the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14. The Pharisee boasts of his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly asks for God’s mercy. Jesus concludes, “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted” (Luke 18:14). True greatness in God’s kingdom is marked by a humble spirit and a contrite heart.

Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals who achieved greatness through humility. Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers, rose to power in Egypt because of his humble and faithful heart. Moses, described as the meekest man on earth, led the Israelites out of bondage because he relied on God’s strength rather than his own. Jesus Himself, the epitome of humility, demonstrated the ultimate act of greatness through His sacrifice on the cross.

Serve Without Seeking Recognition: Engage in acts of service without expecting anything in return. Whether at church, work, or home, let your service be an offering to God.

Listen More, Speak Less: Practice active listening. Value others’ opinions and show empathy in your conversations.

Acknowledge Your Dependence on God: Regularly spend time in prayer and reflection, acknowledging that every good thing in your life is a gift from God.

Lift Others Up: Encourage and support others in their endeavors. Celebrate their successes without envy or comparison.

Greatness through humility is a timeless and powerful principle. By humbling ourselves before God and others, we align with His will and open ourselves to His exaltation. Let us commit to walking this path of humility, trusting that in due time, God will lift us up.

Prayer Points:

Father, help me to embrace humility in all areas of my life and resist the temptation of pride.

Lord, teach me to serve others selflessly and to seek greatness through humility.

Jesus, I ask for a heart that values others above myself and reflects Your love.

Holy Spirit, guide me in moments of pride and lead me back to the path of humility.

Call to Salvation:

If you have not yet surrendered your life to Jesus, now is the perfect time. Pray this prayer: “Lord Jesus, I recognize my need for You. I confess my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I invite You into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Help me to live a life marked by humility and grace. Amen.”

Join us at The New Life Miracle Church as we grow together in humility and strive for greatness in God’s kingdom. God bless you.