Deference That Defuses Competition

Luke 14:7-11

Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (Luke 14:11)

JESUS NOTICED HOW ALL THE attendees at a dinner party tried to sit in places of honor at the table—trying to navigate the complex social pecking order in ways that served their own best interests. His advice to them exemplifies the wisdom of humility and self-awareness, as well as one of the most effective ways we can change the atmosphere around us by defying it. Deference may seem out of place in a highly competitive environment, but it defuses and undermines the spirit of one-upmanship. The problem for many of us, however, is that a deferential attitude may cost us some opportunities in the short run.

But not in the long run. God knows how to take care of his own. Ultimately the question is, Who do you see as the orchestrator of your life—yourself or God? If you’re relying on yourself, you will likely do everything you can to work out your own advances and promotions, and you will constantly be under pressure. If you allow God to order your life, you can rest in his wisdom and timing. You’ll learn to take steps toward a goal or position in his way at the right moment. The initiative is his; you are only responding. It’s a much more peaceful way to live.

While you are waiting for God to open doors and direct your paths, you are able to represent his nature to others. No longer will you experience a cutthroat zeal to be exalted; instead, you’ll demonstrate a patient confidence that you are right where you need to be at every moment. Those who rest in the flow of God’s Spirit and entrust the course of their lives to him stand out as exceptional, demonstrating not only the mature character that tends to open opportunities but also the nature of their Father, who is not stressed about anything. Submission and trust make a beautiful testimony, and ultimately a fruitful one—for you and for those who need a glimpse of the sovereign God.

{Father, empower my faith in your sovereignty over my life. Enable me to strip the competitive atmosphere around me of power by submitting to you. Help me to serve others well, as I trust you to lift me up at the proper time. Amen.