Reading the NLT Commentary, I found this to be very interesting; something I never took notice to before when reading these words, but Jesus made this proverb a parable. Now I can put two and two together…
“Don’t demand an audience with the king or push for a place among the great. It’s better to wait for an invitation to the head table than to be sent away in public disgrace.” Proverbs 25: 6-7 (NLT)
“Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king and do not stand in the place of the great. For it is better that he say to you, ‘Come up here,’ than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince whom your eyes have seen.” Proverbs 25: 6-7 (NKJV)
In God’s kingdom and in human affairs, humility is the key to promotion before the Great King. Let’s recap… In Luke 14: 7-11, Jesus advised people not to rush for the best places at a feast. People today are just as eager to raise their social status, whether by being with the right people, dressing for success, or driving the right car. Whom do you try to impress? Rather than aiming for prestige, look for a place where you can serve. If God wants you to serve on a wider scale, He will invite you to take a higher place. Service is more important in God’s kingdom than status.
The more and more I meditate on this parable, the more and more I realize that I’m changing…
I mean, I used to want to advertise and tell everyone about the good things (in terms of service) that I was doing for the Kingdom of God, whether people wanted to hear it or not. I’m learning that it’s better to quietly and faithfully accomplish the work God has given me to do. And I’m finding out that as others notice the quality of my life, they are the ones who draw attention to it.
As I write this, I’m thinking about the post I did a few weeks ago on Proverbs 20, and how The Bible tells me that a person who is truly confident of his or her strength does not need to parade it. A truly brave person does not look for chances to prove themselves (Avoiding fights…and Salvation). Wow! I love when God’s Word brings me a revelation, a Rhema Word, or an Aha moment about something that personally happened (or is happening )to me!
My goodness, as I continue to read this proverb… wouldn’t you know, I did a post on verse 14 also…
“A person who promises a gift but doesn’t give it is like clouds and wind that bring no rain.”
Most churches, Christian organizations, etc… depend on the gifts of people to keep their ministries going. But many who promise to give, whether promising money or time, fail to follow through. The Bible is very clear about the effect this has on those involved in the ministry. If you make a pledge, keep your promise:)
