King Josiah’s son decided to build a bigger palace. He was going to show off his greatness.
This is what God had to say:
Jeremiah 22:15-17
Does it make you a king
to have more and more cedar?
Did not your father have food and drink?
He did what was right and just,
so all went well with him.
16 He defended the cause of the poor and needy,
and so all went well.
Is that not what it means to know me?”
declares the Lord.
17 “But your eyes and your heart
are set only on dishonest gain,
on shedding innocent blood
and on oppression and extortion.”
In God’s eyes, greatness doesn’t seem to be connected to more stuff or having bigger houses.
God sees greatness in our character, not our belongings.
He can add to our belongings if we focus on adding to our character.
Those who put others first. Who takes care of those in need? Who cares for the widow and the fatherless. Who don’t seek dishonest gain. Who don’t misuse their power or influence.
This is what greatness looks like to God. It’s much more kingly.
It makes me ask what am I adding to my life, stuff or character? What am I pursuing other’s needs or my own interest?
Remembering it is God who provides all that I have. He has simply asked me to steward it and to love and care for those around me. Greatness can be found in our character and not our stuff.
