We keep looking to the Lord our God for his mercy, just as servants keep their eyes on their master, as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal. [Psalm 123.2]
I would like to think I am seeking the LORD the way this Psalm describes it.
We live in a time (especially here in the USA) where so much of everything is designed for self-gratification. This self-centered mindset is the polar opposite of that which makes a good servant or slave.
If we are to understand how attentive we are to be to the LORD, then we need to understand the life of a servant or slave. We need to understand that our desires are of no consequence whatsoever but our every thought should be only on every desire of the One we serve.
On the other hand, John the Revelator wrote that we have been made kings and priests in Christ Jesus (Revelation 1.6 and 5.10).
So then, how are we are we to act? Like kings and priests or like servants and slaves?
The Apostle Paul wrote the following and I think it solves the mystery for us:
Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. [Philippians 2.1-12]
So we ARE kings and priests, but we are also instructed to live like servants and slaves.
No wonder Paul said it would be hard work to show the results of our salvation!
Father, every day I see the opportunity to work through this mindset that You desire of Your followers. It is really east to get it wrong - especially the entitled part of being a king or priest! Help me to journey this journey as a faithful servant - I'll leave the king and priest part up to You...
