John 7:14-24

Be Still: Lord, I thank you for this moment in your presence. Would you open my eyes to more of who you are, my ears to hear all that you want to say and my heart to the truths you want to reveal. Amen

Read: John 7:14-24 

Whoever speaks on their own does so to gain personal glory, but he who seeks the glory of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him. (v18) 

Encounter: There was a director at work who always delivered my ideas as if they were her own. It was a small thing but started to get on my nerves! On reflection, I had to reach the point where I was content for the overall purpose to be achieved -- for my satisfaction to come from the overarching work goal being reached and not necessarily from recognition of the role that I'd played. 

You may have your own examples of wanting to receive recognition whether in the workplace, relationships, groups or even church. We have the perfect example in Jesus of what it looks like to 'step aside'. He is the supreme exemplar of living a life that always pointed back to the father. 

When we 'get out of the way', the pressure is off! We can live full lives with no ulterior motives. Colossians 2:10 says that we have been brought to fulness in Christ. In him there is nothing we need to gain, and nothing that can be taken away. This helps us to live lives that are uncompromised, free, and full of integrity. 

A life focused on bringing glory to God leads us to greater authenticity and fulfilment as we align with our created purpose. Stepping aside, leads us to live in a way that shows off the glory of the Lord and his nature, rather than our own.

The truth for us all is – it’s not about us!

Apply: Is there a practical way you could practise not receiving the credit? Try to find an opportunity for a secret random act of kindness this week. 

Devote: Lord, help me to live a life that shows off your glory and not my own.