THE UPSIDE-DOWN KINGDOM: A 7 - Day Disovery of How God's Patterns for Living Turn Our Lives the Right Way Up by Youth Alive Ausಮಾದರಿ

SECOND PLACE IS BETTER

Most of our lives, we are encouraged and celebrated when we come first. Achieving an A+ is the ultimate goal, sporting teams aim to win championships and sports day is all about our tribe coming first. As kids, we hustle and push to be first in line. Our parents and teachers are super proud if we become the recipients of end-of-year school awards. We want to be chosen for the lead role in the musical, host the best party, be the first to get the latest shoes, and once we have our license, be the first one to own a car.

Our culture is geared toward us being ‘best’ and ‘first’.

So, how upside-down when we are told in Romans 10:12 (MSG) to ‘be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle,’ This phrase came about in the late 1800s and meant that while the first violin played the melody, the second just accompanied. It’s the whole idea of putting someone else before yourself; putting another’s needs before your own, and not always being the centre of attention.

Again, in Mark 9:35 (NIV), Jesus instructs His disciples ‘Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.’

Yesterday, we read about John the Baptist and how Jesus' appearance on the scene meant John had to suddenly play second fiddle. John had been known as the best preacher in the land, but when Jesus appeared, John willingly stepped back so he could serve Him.

When we put others’ needs in front of our own, not only are we following the Bible’s example, but we are doing the very thing God put us here to do - serve others. Instead of asking ‘what am I here for’, maybe try ‘who am I here for?’ The amazing thing is, when we do the thing God put us here for, we end up feeling way happier than if we try to elbow our way to first place.

PRAYER

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for your perfect example of selflessness through Your work on the Cross. I come to You, asking for a heart that puts others first. Teach me to listen with compassion, serve with humility and act with kindness.

Amen