Second Only to the King

⁴² Calling them to Himself, Jesus said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them; and their great men exercise authority over them. ⁴³ “But it is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant; ⁴⁴ and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be slave of all. ⁴⁵ “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

-Mark 10:42–45 (NASB95)

The teachings of God concerning how to attain greatness are clear, and may at first seem impractical or unreasonable. In short, God says a person will only find greatness and honor if they do not seek it at all. Instead, they must seek the opposite. Seek to be a servant, lowly, selfless, totally unconcerned about status or recognition. Only then will greatnes

s and honor be granted (James 4:10). To keep human eyes clear of fog concerning the issue of greatness and how it is sought and achieved, God has provided examples like the one in Esther.

The book of Esther provides a uniquely earthbound perspective. God’s behind-the-scenes workings are seen only in their effect. The reader is not allowed to pull back the curtain to see God’s plan until it is revealed in due time. In this account, Haman sought honor and glory without rest while Mordecai sought only to do what was good for his people. Ultimately, Haman’s ambition assembled the gallows from which he swung (Esther 7:9). Mordecai, on the other hand, through his humility and selfless seeking of good, became “second only to King Ahasuerus” (Esther 10:3).

Those who seek greatness and recognition will not find it from God. Those who selflessly seek good for all will be exalted by Him. Servitude is the path to true greatness. Walk it with humility and avoid the prideful gallows.