SEPTEMBER 26 – RECOGNIZE THE LEAD

Understand – what we talk about is Jesus as the Lord, God. We’re serving you for Him; His plan. You see, God who said for light to come out of darkness, has made Jesus, the face of the Glory of God, to shine out of our hearts. So, we understand that we containers of clay have this treasure within us, showing us this great power is from God, not us.        (2 Corinthians 4:5-7)

                   With all the communicating; talking, showing, encouraging, explaining, that you must do, are you careful to remember that it’s not about you? In fact, one of the quickest, most certain ways to recognize you are heading for a dangerous place, is when you notice your language is dominated by the words, “I” and “me/my.” God’s leaders will speak to their people about the “we” which recognizes that God is in the lead, and that their people are important partners in the work rather than subordinates who are to serve selfish desires.

                   How interesting it is that Paul brought to the reader’s mind the imagery of God creating light in the beginning (Genesis 1:3). Also, he made the same reference to clay pots that he used in a letter to Timothy, making it clear that the flesh that carries God’s light; Jesus, is not honorable and doesn’t deserve any praise. Rather, it is the stuff that must be shed if a person is to be used by God.

                   Recognize as Paul did, that your life, your work, and even your identity is no longer about you. Let your life show only Jesus.