More Blessed To Serve Than Be Served
1 Peter 2:17 Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.
Story: The referee called a fifth foul on me in a basketball game, meaning I was out of the game. After our loss, I tried to explain to the referee why he was wrong; that didn’t go to well. So, I didn’t have much to do with him for a while. That was years ago, but it took me a while to realize how I had elevated my personal desires. I was refusing to love him as a brother in Christ or honor him as the basketball authority. All to win a game! The commands in verse 17 can seem simple, but they flow out of v. 13 (‘be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution’) and verse 16 (‘live as people who are free, … as slaves of God’). Fearing God is rewarding and wise, but costs me getting my way all the time. The more I practice humility, the more I obey these commands and have good deeds that others will see and glorify God (v. 12).
My Prayer Response: Father, I can now see my foolishness and pride years ago with that basketball game. But what about today? I like to get my way; I must confess that I am both selfish and like to be selfish. But Jesus set the example that it is more blessed to serve than to be served. You are opposed to the proud, but give much grace to the humble. So continue to give me a humble heart that fears You!
As you fear God, may you also love your fellow believers!