By: Elizabeth Haarberg

Greatness

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

There are many opinions about what someone can or cannot do, what a person can achieve, and placing limits on people. I find myself irritated when I read or hear others place limitations on people. I’ve been wondering why I get so frustrated, and I wonder if it’s because I believe through God anything is possible.

“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26 English Standard Version

God created us to carry out amazing lives.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version

When we don’t believe that we or others can do great things for God’s glory, we are not displaying the fruit Jesus requested of us. Remembering that our gifts are displayed so that people can see that God is good is paramount to striving for greatness.

“Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
Psalm 34:8 New International Version

Encouraging others to be great is one way to reach those who are yet to believe. Christians are supposed to be different, that includes how we act, talk, live, and take risks. Simplistic living does not mean small. We can do great things for God while we are living attached to heaven.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Colossians 3:23-24 New International Version

When you are dreaming about what to do next, dream with God. When you are making future plans, plan with God. When you are wondering if you can be great, consult God. Jesus is the one that produces greatness; it’s our job to press in to what God is calling us to.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado