Designed for Greatness

11-15-14


In January 1998 my hubby, Rob, visited a church in Long Beach pastored by Larry Walkemeyer.  That day the pastor spoke about a big idea;  “God has designed you for greatness. Now, accept His definition and grow into that greatness.” 


As I read through Rob’s sermon notes I was struck by part of that statement; “accept His definition”.  I think we all hold a certain image of what a great version of ourselves might look like.  That greatness probably includes a lot of the self being exalted, known, or endowed with riches. Probably not the qualities God measures greatness by.


So how does God measure greatness? Jesus called John the Baptist a great one. (Matthew 11:11)  He also called the widow’s offering at the temple the greatest. (Luke 21:3)  Two very different lives but both great, in Jesus’ eyes. The common trait was their partnership with God.  Jesus was also a partner with God, the Father.  He gave up His deity to live as a human, doing only what the Father said and going only where He led. The widow gave up financial security.  John the Baptist gave up living comfortably. We could say that the power of partnership is found in sacrifice.

So what is God’s definition of greatness?  For each of us it is different and unfortunately there is no formula for finding it. The definition is found in our personal relationship with God and in our individual calling created for His purposes. It is only as we seek more of God that we find our true selves and gain the willingness to “accept His definition”.  In his sermon pastor Larry said it is our “Faithfulness and Fruitfulness” that helps us grow into the greatness of all God has called us to BE and DO.

**Lord, I submit to your definition and design of me. Give me the faith to let go of my own vision and see beyond personal comforts to the beauty and power released through sacrifice. Continue to grow in me the reliance on your word.  Strengthen my relationships with those in your service and lead me in obedience so I can be used for your purposes and  show your greatness.**

 “And so, if anyone breaks the least of the commandments but teaches others to obey, he shall be the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But those who teach God’s laws and obey them shall be great in the Kingdom of Heaven”.  Matthew 5:19.  (TLB)    

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