Position

<<status, place>>

A person’s standing in life has the ability to influence, help, guide and bring about beneficial change as they serve others. Unfortunately, this power of position can also lead to corruption, with abuse of that right – using the acquired influence, control or wealth to make unethical or morally wrong decisions, and exploit the disadvantaged and poor through manipulation, making them dependent and subservient (1 Kgs 21:1-15). Self-centred pride has been the reason for the demise of many in places of prominence and promising leadership (Prov 16:18).

We are to respect the position or office of those in legitimate authority but no one is exempt from being accountable to others, both higher and lower in the various strata of society. Regardless of whatever position or occupation we have in life, we are all created equal before God, all are in need of a Saviour and so we should pray for others irrespective of their status in life (1 Tim 2:1,2). The Bible’s message is, do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low standing in life and willing to do menial work (Rom 12:16). We should humbly review ourselves to see if our attitudes, actions and words glorify Jesus.

Jesus didn’t regard His status in life as being superior to that of sinners, saying He “did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many”. He stated the benchmark of greatness in the Kingdom of God is being a servant, in humility meeting the needs of others for “Many who are first will be last, and the last first” – the opposite to human reasoning (Mk 10:31,43-45). When the disciples asked who is greatest in the Kingdom of heaven, Jesus replied, “Whoever humbles himself as this child is greatest” (Mt 18:4). Trust and dependency are characteristics of children.

As Christians we are to be role models, examples for others to follow, using our influence and position to help those in need, providing direction and encouragement where required, rather than just bettering our own lot in life.

Use your position in Iife to glorify God

Position yourself to receive divine blessing by obedience and wise choices. Be submissive and obedient so God can position you as He sees fit. God placed Joseph in the position of Governor in Egypt so that he could make the provision that saved many people from starvation (Gen 41:38-44, 50:20).

Our present position or circumstance doesn’t have to necessarily determine our future; through a determined choice, coupled with commitment and perseverance with a clear goal to aim for, it is possible to chart out a new course; this applies both to this life and most importantly to the next.

It doesn’t matter so much in life where we are, rather in which direction we are moving – is it closer to Christ or further from Him?