As Christians, we are called to a life of humility and service, not seeking worldly power or glory, but following the example of Jesus who came not to be served, but to serve.
Good morning, Church family! Today, we're diving into a passage that might just step on our toes a little, but it's an important one. It's about our desire for security, the danger of pride, and the call to serve. You see, we live in a world where security is equated with success and power. But as Christians, we're called to a different kind of life, one marked by humility and service.
As Rick Warren once said, "Faithful servants never retire. You can retire from your career, but you will never retire from serving God."
Let's read our passage for today, from Mark 10:35-45:
The desire for security is a fundamental human instinct. It's a longing that is deeply ingrained in us, a yearning that drives much of our behavior. We seek security in various forms - financial, emotional, physical, and even spiritual. We want to feel safe, protected, and free from harm or threat. This is not inherently wrong. In fact, it's a natural response to the uncertainties and dangers of life.
When this is negative: The issue arises when our pursuit of security becomes a quest for power, control, and self-preservation. This is where James and John found themselves in our passage today. They desired a place of honor and security at Jesus' side in His glory. They wanted assurance of their importance and their place in the kingdom. But Jesus, in His wisdom, knew that their request was misguided. They were seeking security in status and position, not understanding the true nature of His kingdom.
For us: Our desire for security can lead us down a similar path. We strive for success, wealth, and recognition, believing that these will provide us with the security we crave. We want to be in control, to have the power to protect ourselves and our loved ones. But this is a false sense of security. It's based on the illusion that we can control our circumstances, that we can protect ourselves from harm and uncertainty. But life is unpredictable, and no amount of wealth, success, or power can shield us from its uncertainties.
Can lead to pride and self-reliance: We start to believe that we are the masters of our fate, that we can secure our own future. This is a dangerous path, as it leads us away from our dependence on God. It makes us forget that He is our ultimate source of security, that He is the one who holds our future in His hands.
Not found in power, wealth, or status: Security is found in surrender, in trusting God with our lives, and in serving others. This is a counter-cultural message, one that goes against the values of our society. But it's a message that we need to hear and embrace.
Seek it in the right place: See it in God, not in worldly success or power. We need to learn to trust Him with our lives, to surrender our need for control, and to serve others instead of seeking to be served.
Pride is a subtle and dangerous vice that can creep into our lives without us even realizing it ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO
Sermon Central
