Dr H Reflections

Teddy bear or Grizzly bear ∙

Teddy bear or Grizzly bear ∙

Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who the Holy Spirit controls think about things that please the Spirit. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. – Romans 8:5,7

Romans 6:12-19

12 Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.

16 Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living.
18 Now you are free from your slavery to sin, and you have become slaves to righteous living.
19 Because of the weakness of your human nature, I am using the illustration of slavery to help you understand all this.

The story of the Teddy Bear begins with an unexpected act of kindness from none other than President Theodore Roosevelt. On November 14, 1902, Roosevelt embarked on a hunting trip in the wilderness of Mississippi. Despite hours of diligent tracking, Roosevelt and his hunting party had no success in their pursuit of wild game.

Then, one of Roosevelt’s assistants, Holt Collier, located a 235-pound black bear. To ensure a successful hunt, Collier captured the bear alive and tied it to a willow tree, intending for Roosevelt to shoot it. However, when the president arrived and saw the restrained bear, he was appalled. Roosevelt considered the act entirely unsportsmanlike and refused to take the shot. This single moment of compassion became national news as reporters shared the story of the president’s ethical stance far and wide.

Clifford Berryman, a political cartoonist, was particularly inspired by the story. He created a cartoon illustrating President Roosevelt refusing to shoot the poor bear, and it quickly garnered widespread attention.

Among those moved by this simple yet poignant image was Morris Michtom, a Brooklyn candy shop owner Michtom and his wife’s shop was not only a place of sweet confections but also one where they made and sold stuffed animals. Seeing an opportunity, Michtom created three stuffed toy bears inspired by Berryman’s cartoon. Displaying two of them in his shop window, he sent the third to Roosevelt himself, seeking permission to name his new creation “Teddy’s Bear.” Much to the delight of Michtom, Roosevelt agreed. Thus, the “Teddy Bear” was born — a soft, comforting figure that would become a beloved cultural icon, symbolizing kindness, warmth, and compassion.

Over time, the Teddy Bear transcended its origins to represent comfort and innocence, becoming a cherished toy for children and a nostalgic keepsake for adults. Its creation not only reflects Roosevelt’s integrity but also speaks to the profound ways small acts of kindness can leave an enduring legacy.

Interestingly, each person is born with a tad bit of Teddy Bear and a tad bit of Grizzly Bear. These “bears” serve as metaphors for our personalities and choices. The Teddy Bear represents tenderness, kindness, and the capacity to offer comfort and love. It is the part of us that is nurturing and willing to extend compassion not only to others but also to ourselves.

On the other hand, the Grizzly Bear reflects the primal, raw, and often destructive side of human nature. It embodies traits like aggression, selfishness, and unchecked emotion. Grizzly Bears, though strong and resilient, can be dangerous if left uncontrolled, symbolizing the potential for human impulses to dominate our better judgment.

Of course, some people might lean more heavily toward one bear than the other, but both reside within us. The question is, which bear will we allow to lead our lives?

This inner tension between the Teddy Bear and the Grizzly Bear mirrors a more profound spiritual truth. Paul addresses this duality when he speaks of the transformation that occurs when we become children of the King. Ephesians 2:5 says, “He made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions — it is by grace you have been saved.” When the Father awakens a new spiritual life within us, we encounter a profound shift.

However, this awakening sets up an inward battle — a conflict between two natures. On the one hand, there is the “old self,” often synonymous with the Grizzly Bear, representing our sinful nature and the desires of the flesh. This nature embodies selfishness, pride, and rebellion against God’s will. On the other hand, the “new self,” akin to the Teddy Bear, reflects our spiritual awakening — a life transformed by grace and guided by the pursuit of righteousness.

This internal struggle can feel like a form of spiritual schizophrenia. It’s as though the Incredible Hulk lurks beneath our composed exterior, ready to burst out and take control whenever old temptations or emotions are stirred. Even Paul acknowledged this wrestling in Romans 7, lamenting how the things he wanted to do, he failed to do, and the things he did not want to do, he found himself doing.

Much like the choice between living as a Teddy Bear or a Grizzly Bear, the spiritual battle is one of intentionality. Which nature will you nurture? Will you yield to the old self, driven by selfish instincts, or will you lean into your new life in Christ, allowing the rejuvenating Spirit of God to guide and shape you?

Living as a “Teddy Bear” does not mean forsaking strength but channeling it through kindness, integrity, and grace. It means choosing patience over anger, compassion over judgment, and reconciliation over division. When we live according to our new nature, empowered by the Spirit, we reflect the image of God Himself — a Father who, steadfast in His loyal love, extends mercy and forgiveness to children of the King.

Roosevelt’s moment of compassion reminded the world that even in positions of power, it is not weakness to show kindness. Similarly, we are given daily opportunities to choose which “bear” to embody. By intentionally drawing nearer to the Father and allowing His Spirit to work within us, we can overcome the impulses of the Grizzly Bear and live as Teddy Bears, offering comfort, light, and goodness to the world around us.

REFLECT & PRAY

Romans 7:25 Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind, I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature, I am a slave to sin.

Father, I long to be a Teddy Bear rather than a Grizzly Bear. Continue the work of taming me that I might be meek and have my “Power Under Control.”

INSIGHT

In the kingdom of God, children of the King can choose to live as Teddy Bears rather than Grizzly Bears. Following the Fall, the human race was contaminated by sin. We are born with a sinful nature, the Grizzly Bear. It seeks to control us and often does. However, when we are born again (John 3:3), the Father imparts a new spiritual nature, the Teddy Bear. These two bears (natures) are constantly at war within us, each striving for dominance. Paul explains:

Romans 7:14-23

14 The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin.
15 I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.

19 I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.

23 But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me.

Paul encourages the children of the King to live according to the Spirit and resist the flesh. Romans 6:12: “Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.”

How can we do that? The Father provides abundant examples in the natural world. Bears, for instance, are known for their strength and power. Mama bears are highly protective and caring, displaying ferocity when guarding their young. At the same time, these bears can be gentle and loving when nurturing their cubs. They control their immense strength and power. The Scriptures describe this quality as meekness.

Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

What is meekness? “Meekness is not weakness; meekness is Power Under Control. This word was used to describe a soothing wind, a healing medicine, and a colt that had been broken. In each instance, there is power . . .. But this power is under control” (Wiersbe).

The Greek word often translated as meek is praus. Praus can be summarized in one simple phrase: “Power Under Control.” When referring to animals, an appropriate translation of praus would be “tame.” The word “connotes a unique blend of strength and poise.” Meekness involves “gentle friendliness and consideration, accommodating others’ weaknesses” (Friberg).

When wild animals are tamed, their power is not taken away, but their destructive, independent instincts are restrained. They accept the direction of another and no longer respond with “fight or flight.” Tame animals lose their fear of people.

If a mama Grizzly Bear can demonstrate meekness by controlling her power, so can the children of the King.

This struggle between the two natures — the Teddy Bear and the Grizzly Bear — is ongoing. However, we have the ability to choose which bear we allow to take control.

Paul writes, “The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions” (Galatians 5:17).

All the children of the King grapple with this inner battle. The struggle can be intense and continuous, yet the Father provides the strength for any child of the King to endure and control our Grizzly Bear natures. We are reminded not to judge or condemn one another for these battles. Ultimately, each child of the King stands or falls before the Father Himself.

Paul explains, “Who are you to condemn someone else’s servants? Their own master will judge whether they stand or fall. And with the Lord’s help, they will stand and receive his approval” (Romans 14:4).

Which bear wins?

The one you feed!

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Unworthy belonging ∙∙

Unworthy belonging ∙∙

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your lovingkindness. – Psalms 51:1

Psalms 51:1-7

1 A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet went to him after he had gone into Bathsheba. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy, blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin!
3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.

4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment.

6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being and teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Dr. Brene Brown introduced the Shame Resilience Theory (SRT) in her book, I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn’t): Making the Journey from “What Will People Think?” to “I Am Enough.”

Dr. Brown defines shame as “the intensely painful feelings or experiences of believing we are flawed and therefore unworthy of acceptance and belonging . . .. Shame creates feelings of fear, blame, and disconnect.”

According to Dr. Brown, the Shame Resilience Theory has four key elements:

Recognizing shame and understanding our triggers.
Practicing critical awareness.
Reaching out and telling our story.
Speaking shame, as its survival relies on secrecy and silence.

By practicing these four elements, individuals can build and expand their resilience to shame. However, when shame is not recognized or acknowledged, people often default to self-protective defense mechanisms such as fight, flight, or freeze.

David had mastered the art of Shame Resilience. He experienced the profound paradox of unworthy belonging — the idea that, though deeply flawed, he remained a beloved child of God.

After facing the consequences of his moral failures with Bathsheba, David confronted his shame and sin. He acknowledged his guilt openly, deeply shaken by his actions. His response was not to retreat but to call upon the Lord, asking for the mercy only God could provide. Even in his unworthiness, David was confident that he still belonged to the Father God, Who loved him dearly.

Psalm 51 records David’s plea for mercy and compassion:
Psalm 51:1 Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.

This scripture highlights two magnificent attributes of God that help believers strengthen their Shame Resilience — mercy and compassion.

The Hebrew term for mercy, chanan, conveys kindness, graciousness, pity, and consideration. It is often translated as “show mercy” or “be gracious.” Mercy is about not receiving the punishment one deserves.

The word for compassion, racham, is frequently translated as compassion or mercy, but it carries a far deeper nuance. It reflects a “profound awareness of another’s suffering, combined with heartfelt sympathy and a sense of tenderness.” It depicts the “deep emotional connection one has for those who are dear to them” (UBS). It connotes “deep heartfelt feelings of love and empathy.”

David’s appeal rested completely on God’s essence, His core character, and nature of compassion and loyal love. David begged the Lord to show kindness and to extend the forgiveness and loyalty rooted in His steadfast love.

REFLECT & PRAY

Children of the King find themselves living in an extraordinary paradox. They are unworthy because of sin, yet they still belong because of the Father’s immense and unchanging love.

Father, thank You for Your mercy and unconditional, loyal love. I acknowledge that I could never earn or deserve Your forgiveness, yet You freely offer it. I am deeply grateful that I belong to You.

INSIGHT

David’s relationship with the Father was deeply personal, grounded in a covenant that bound them together in an unbreakable bond. He understood that he was part of the Father’s Forever Family — a relationship stronger and more enduring than any human construct. This covenant was not fleeting or conditional; it was akin to a marriage promise intended to endure the tests of time.

What made this bond unwavering was the Father’s loyal love (hesed) and fidelity. His love is not tempered by circumstance or human failings. It is steadfast and relentless, extending forgiveness, kindness, and reconciliation. The Father’s commitment to His children is unshakable — He does not abandon or turn away because of the foibles of our human limitations and weakness. His love persists through every season of their lives, offering comfort and hope to those who seek Him.

Psalm 51 stands as a powerful and timeless example of how to seek forgiveness. David, humbled by the magnitude of his wrongs, pours his heart out to the Father. He offers a prayer that is raw and authentic. He does not hide his guilt or attempt to justify his sins. Instead, he lays everything before the Father with a contrite heart. David does not appeal to God on the basis of any goodness within himself. He knows he is totally unworthy and under condemnation for what he has done. Rather, his appeal is based on Who and what the Father is.

David’s prayer is shaped by the Father’s loyal love and compassion. His plea is infused with confidence in the grace and mercy of the Father. He knew the Father as a person. He knew how wonderful his Father God was and how much He loved him.

Constable asserts that “David appealed to the Lord to cleanse him because of His loyal love and compassion. He knew he did not deserve the Lord’s forgiveness, nor could he earn it. Divine pardon comes to sinners by His grace alone. He asked God to blot out the record of his transgressions, namely sins that go beyond the limits that God has established for conduct.”

The Father delights in forgiving and restoring His children. His love is so profound and unyielding that it overcomes even the darkest guilt and shame. For every child of the King, there will be moments weighed down by remorse, overwhelmed by the realization of sin. But in those moments, there is a promise — a steadfast truth that we can cling to.

The Father’s mercy is unending, and His love never fails. His forgiveness is not a begrudging act but a joyful expression of His loyal character. Through the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, every sin can be cleansed and every heart made whole.

David captures this beautifully in Psalm 51, where he writes, “Cleanse me, and I will be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7). This imagery of purity reflects what the Father offers through His mercy. It is a transformation that goes beyond human understanding — the ability to stand renewed, untarnished by guilt, and fully restored by His grace.

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Idols in the heart ∙∙

Idols in the heart ∙∙

Do not give the devil an opportunity. – Ephesians 4:27

Ezekiel 14:4-6

4 Tell them, “This is what the Sovereign LORD says: The people of Israel have set up idols in their hearts and fallen into sin, and then they go to a prophet asking for a message. So I, the LORD, will give them the kind of answer their great idolatry deserves.”
5 “I will do this to capture the minds and hearts of all my people who have turned from me to worship their detestable idols.”
6 Therefore, tell the people of Israel, “This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Repent and turn away from your idols, and stop all your detestable sins.”

What is dual citizenship? Dual citizenship, or dual nationality, is when an individual is recognized as a citizen by two countries at the same time. This status gives them the rights and responsibilities of citizenship in each nation. For example, dual citizens may hold two passports, one for each country of their citizenship.

Similarly, children of the King possess a form of “dual citizenship.” They are citizens of the world, the place of their natural birth and origin, while at the same time, they are citizens of the kingdom of God. With this dual citizenship comes a dual allegiance. However, many people try to straddle the line between these two kingdoms, living with one foot in each and swaying between them based on their needs or desires. Despite professing loyalty to the Father, their obedience can be inconsistent and unreliable. A friend once remarked, “I am submissive, very submissive whenever I want to be.”

These individuals may express allegiance to the Father, yet they are also drawn to idols they have internalized.

What Is Idolatry?

Idolatry is most commonly understood as the worship of physical idols, objects made by human hands to represent mythical gods. Ancient cultures and scriptural accounts offer examples such as Thoth, Ra, Isis, Baal, Astarte, Marduk, Zeus, Athena, and household idols. The first and second of the Ten Commandments explicitly address this issue.

Exodus 20:3-5 states:

3 You must not have any other god but me.
4 You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea.
5 You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods.

Children of the King might say to themselves, “I have never worshiped an idol. Idolatry is not my issue.” But idolatry is not limited to the worship of tangible, physical entities. It also includes idols that exist of the heart.

Ezekiel 14:4 warns, “The people of Israel have set up idols in their hearts and fallen into sin.”

Though children of the King belong to God, their hearts can be drawn toward internal idolatry. These idols are formed out of mental and emotional constructs, built with their own hands in a metaphorical sense. Such idols take root in the heart, hindering the intimacy they should have with the Father. If someone feels distanced from God, it might be because an idol has taken over the sacred space in their heart meant for Him alone.

This principle can also apply to human relationships. When we devote ourselves to our own “idols,” it can displace the affection and connection that rightly belong to our partners or loved ones.

Ezekiel’s Warning About Idols

The Hebrew word used for idols in Ezekiel’s writings is gillulim. This term appears 48 times in the Old Testament, with 39 occurrences in the book of Ezekiel. The word carries a derogatory meaning and is thought to originally refer to “dung pellets” or “dung-idols” (NIDOTTE). Connect the dots.

Ezekiel uses graphic language to communicate the repulsiveness of idolatry. His descriptions are vivid and direct, yet scathing, even shocking. The children of Israel were seduced by the worst of all idols, those of their own minds. Their hearts were torn, open to any form of apostasy. These internal idols seized their hearts, minds, and emotions. They succumbed to an “idol-mindedness.” Victor P. Hamilton observes, “Their sin is an inner idolatry, a mental idolatry, rather than an external idolatry. . .. It is a state of mind that is at cross-purposes with the will and being of God. It is out of the heart/mind that evil comes.”

Ezekiel’s warning extends to all believers. Idolatry, whether external or internal, is a spiritual barrier that disrupts the intended relationship between God and His people. Recognizing and addressing these idols is vital for maintaining a heart entirely devoted to the Father.

REFLECT & PRAY

“Anything that we put before God as our focus or center of attention becomes our idol. We don’t have to set up idols of wood and stone at a physical shrine in order to engage in idolatry. If there is anything that we honor above God, we have already made it an idol in our hearts” (Stanley).

Father, I confess that I have built idols with my own hands and placed them in my heart. Time and again, I have prioritized other things over You. Please encourage me and help me to uproot these idols by guiding my thoughts and emotions to be obedient to You.

INSIGHT

The Struggle with Internalized Idols

Internalized idols can take many forms and disguises. Even the most ordinary and seemingly innocent things can become idols shaped by human preferences, desires, and imaginations. Common examples include the pursuit of power, prestige, wealth, sports achievements, career success, or physical pleasure. However, less obvious things can also become idols. Such things might include pets, children, unhealthy thought patterns, negative emotions, or even chocolate. At its core, idolatry represents a battle for control over the heart and mind.

This is why we are encouraged to demolish arguments and any high-minded viewpoints that challenge the knowledge of God and to bring every thought captive in obedience to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:4).

When the heart is conflicted, the mind is overwhelmed, and emotions are under siege. This calls for serious introspection. Scripture calls us to examine ourselves to see if we are genuinely in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). Allowing thoughts and emotions that stand against God to linger can lead to the brink of spiraling out of control. It’s like paving the way for the enemy, opening ourselves to unwanted spiritual intrusion of our innermost being.

Ephesians 4:26-27 warns us about one specific danger, saying:

26 Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,
27 and do not give the devil an opportunity. (NAS)
27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil. (NLT)
27 Neither give place to the devil. (KJV)

It is as though there is a location within our souls where the enemy can establish a foothold. From there, he can launch an assault to entice us away from pure and simple devotion to the Father. Unrestrained anger is mentioned as one example of how this can happen.

Questions for Reflection

To identify these internalized idols in your own life, ask yourself soul-searching, introspective questions such as these:

• Are negative emotions or misguided beliefs controlling how you live?
• Do negative emotions or misguided beliefs overshadow your worship and dedication to God?
• What motivates you and shapes your daily actions?
• What is your highest priority?
• Is there anything you place above your relationship with God?

By examining these aspects of your heart and mind, you can better recognize any idols that may have taken root, allowing you to refocus your life on the Father and His purposes.

Bob Dylan’s lyrics capture the heart of the matter:

But you’re gonna have to serve somebody, yes indeed
You’re gonna have to serve somebody
Well, it may be the devil, or it may be the Lord
But you’re gonna have to serve somebody

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Servant leadership ∙

Servant leadership ∙

Now Joshua, son of Nun, was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him. – Deuteronomy 34:9

Joshua 1:1-10

1 After the death of Moses, the LORD’s servant, the LORD, spoke to Joshua, son of Nun, Moses’ assistant. He said,
2 Moses, my servant, is dead. Therefore, the time has come for you to lead these people, the Israelites, across the Jordan River into the land I am giving them.
3 I promise you what I promised Moses: ‘Wherever you set foot, you will be on land I have given you.

5 No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you.
6 Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them.
7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do.
8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
9 This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.
10 Joshua then commanded . . ..

Leadership comes in many forms, and it defies a one-size-fits-all definition. Successful leaders bring diverse personalities, backgrounds, and methods to the table. Among the many styles of leadership, one that has deeply resonated through the years is servant leadership.

Although the concept has existed for centuries, the term “servant leadership” was first introduced in 1970 by Robert K. Greenleaf in his groundbreaking essay, “The Servant as Leader.” Greenleaf wrote, “The servant-leader is servant first,” emphasizing that authentic leadership begins with the desire to serve others. Instead of viewing power and authority as tools for personal gain, a servant leader sees leadership as a way to uplift and empower those they lead.

What is Servant Leadership?

At its core, servant leadership is a philosophy that places the needs of others at the heart of leadership. A servant leader’s goal is not self-promotion or dominance but the growth and well-being of their team, community, or organization. They share power, prioritize the needs of others, and help individuals develop to their fullest potential. Greenleaf encouraged leaders to ask themselves two critical questions when serving others:

Do those served grow as persons?
Do they become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, and more likely to serve others?

This approach flips the traditional hierarchy of leadership on its head. Instead of expecting people to serve their leader, the leader seeks to serve their people.

The Key Traits of a Servant Leader

Servant leadership stands in sharp contrast to authoritarian leadership, where power is wielded to dominate or control. Servant leaders lead with a heart of service and a genuine commitment to others’ well-being. Here are some defining characteristics of a servant leader:

• Others-centered mindset: A servant leader prioritizes the needs of others, driven by compassion and responsibility.
• Empowering others: They invest in the personal and professional growth of individuals, nurturing strengths and building confidence.
• Collaboration vs. control: Servant leaders focus on trust and collaboration rather than power and dominance, measuring success by the empowerment of those around them.

Craig Groeschel encapsulates this idea beautifully, stating, “Most leaders are trying to figure out the right strategy. The best leaders are obsessed with empowering the right people.” Servant leadership recognizes that the key to success is not just in making strategic decisions but in building up those who execute them.

Servant leadership is not a modern concept; it is deeply rooted in biblical principles. Moses serves as an extraordinary example of a servant leader in the Scriptures.

Servant leadership is a calling. It invites leaders to shift their perspective from personal ambition to selfless service. It challenges them to consider how their actions, words, and decisions affect the growth and well-being of others. Moses didn’t seek power or personal glory. Instead, he devoted himself to serving God’s people, leading the Israelites out of Egypt, and guiding them through the wilderness despite immense challenges. Yet, Moses also understood the importance of empowerment. He prepared Joshua to take over his leadership role, ensuring the success of Israel’s future. Moses demonstrated that servant leaders focus not on their own legacy but on the continued growth and thriving of those they serve.

REFLECT & PRAY

“No one ever mistook Jesus for anything but a leader, and yet He chose to serve—right up to the moment He performed the ultimate act of service by laying down His life so that we might live” (Stanley).

Father, thank You for the extraordinary example of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, the perfect servant leader. Encourage me to serve selflessly and to honor others above myself. Please help me to lead with humility and a genuine desire to put the needs of others first.

INSIGHT

The Lord Jesus Christ was the quintessential example of servant leadership. His life was dedicated to focusing on the needs of others, consistently putting them first, as noted in Philippians 2:4. MacDonald stated, “The Son of Man is the perfect example of lowly service. He came into the world not to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

Matthew 20:28 affirms this truth, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

As Constable reflected, “Jesus presented Himself, the Son of Man, as the supreme example of a slave of others. He would even lay down His life in the service of others, not just to help them but in their place. As Messiah, Jesus had every right to expect service from others, but instead, He served others.”

For the children of the King, the goal is to emulate our King. The greatness of the Lord Jesus Christ is evident through His attitude and actions of service to others in meekness and humility. He entered the world as the Suffering Servant, as described in Isaiah 53. While the nature of service varies among the children of the King, the motivation remains the same—to put others first, to serve, and not be served.

MacDonald further noted, “The whole purpose of the Incarnation can be summed up in two words—serve and give. It is amazing to think that the exalted Lord humbled Himself to the manger and to the cross. His greatness was manifested in the depth of His humiliation. And so it must be for us.”

On December 12, 1667, the Council of Moscow deposed the Russian Orthodox Patriarch Nikon. He was described as a “man of great ability and sincerity but of autocratic temper.” The word “autocratic” derives from the Greek terms autos (self) and kratos (rule). Autocratic leaders tend to dominate those under their authority.

Autocratic leaders are considered authoritarian because they make decisions with little to no input from others. Rarely do they seek opinions or expertise from those they lead. The three pillars of autocratic leadership are discipline, preparation, and victory, with an emphasis on control.

However, the kingdom of God operates on a completely different pattern. The autocratic model is turned upside down. Long before the term “servant leadership” was coined by Robert Greenleaf, the Lord Jesus Christ offered an innovative and radical, if not revolutionary, leadership paradigm. His approach was unconventional, involving an inverted hierarchy. Instead of seeking self-promotion or recognition, greatness in His kingdom consists in becoming the servant of all.

Mark 9:35 illustrates this concept when Jesus said, “If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.”

Warren Wiersbe highlighted this with the statement, “The key to greatness is not found in position or power but in character. We get a throne by paying with our lives, not by praying with our lips. We must identify with Jesus Christ in His service and suffering, for even He could not reach the throne except by way of the cross.”

Leadership in the Father’s Kingdom is Servant leadership. It challenges conventional ideas of authority and redefines greatness. For those who follow Christ, leadership is not about personal gain or control but about serving others with a heart that reflects Christ’s example, humility, gentleness, and godliness.

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A waste of words ∙∙∙

A waste of words ∙∙∙

Don’t waste your breath on fools, for they will despise the wisest advice. – Proverbs 23:9

Matthew 13:12-15

12 For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.

13 This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.
14 Indeed, in their case the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled that says: “You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.”

15 For this people’s heart has grown dull, and with their ears, they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.

When we drive, frustrating things often happen. From being cut off to losing a parking spot, annoying moments happen all the time. Some people respond with Road Rage, an outburst of anger directed at other drivers. But here’s the question—does getting angry actually solve anything?

There’s another response that many of us might recognize in ourselves. It’s less dramatic but just as unproductive—talking to the cars around us. Maybe you’ve done it or at least seen someone do it. Suddenly, it’s as if the cars have personalities, and we scold them for their behavior. We chide them for cutting us off, going too fast, going too slow, “stealing” our parking spot, or sitting still after the light turns green. But we all know the truth—cars are not sentient beings. They don’t listen, respond, or apologize. They only honk.

Here’s the thing—trying to talk to cars is a waste of time. And in life, dealing with certain people can feel just as futile. Some individuals may hear your words, but they never truly listen. They cling to stubbornness, refusing to open their minds to others, even if it is common sense or based upon years of experience.

Proverbs 23:9 makes this clear: “Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the good sense of your words.” The issue isn’t about intellect or comprehension. It’s about sheer hardheadedness. A fool is not lacking in intelligence but in willingness. They are resistant, thick-skinned, and impervious to reason. Have you noticed how exhausting it is to explain something over and over to someone who refuses to see the truth? It’s like shouting into the wind—your words are carried off and disappear.

The Lord Jesus Christ spoke to this as well in Matthew 7:6, reminding us to “not waste what is holy on people who are unholy.” This wisdom isn’t a call for harshness but for discernment. You can’t force someone to accept the truth if their heart is closed. It’s a tragic reality, but some people choose blindness. They shut their ears and close their eyes, ignoring what’s right in front of them.

The Bible warns of the end result of such stubbornness. Matthew 13:15 says, “For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears are hard of hearing, and they have shut their eyes—so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me cure them.” The refusal to listen isn’t just a minor flaw—it has serious consequences. A hardened heart distances itself from wisdom, grace, and, ultimately, redemption.

Perhaps the lesson here is twofold. First, don’t waste precious energy trying to force change on those who refuse to accept it. Second, don’t allow yourself to become a fool who turns away from understanding. Life is already filled with frustration—whether it’s on the road or in our relationships. But instead of wasting time talking to cars or pleading with closed minds, we can choose to discern when it’s worth speaking and when it’s better to walk away. Sometimes, the wisest thing you can do is to stop and move on, keeping your peace intact and your heart open to God’s truth.

REFLECT & PRAY

There are moments when speaking to others feels like a wasted effort, their foolishness blocking the way to understanding. But as I ponder this thought, I must ask myself—am I any different at times? Do I play the fool? Do I resist seeking wisdom? Do I close my heart to instruction and correction?

Father, too often, I fall short. I fail to listen to the wise counsel You place in my path. I ignore the nudges to grow, to understand, to change. Soften my heart and teach me to be humble and discerning. Open my ears to wisdom and my heart to correction so I may grow in Your truth.

INSIGHT

The Father reminds us of the importance of listening through a simple object lesson. He has given us two ears and only one mouth—an indication that we should listen more than we speak. Yet, for many of us, this is a daily struggle.

James 1:19 offers clear guidance in this area: “You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” Still, we often charge ahead, quick to voice opinions while ignoring the value of listening, not even allowing others to finish their sentences.

Opinions are like belly buttons; everybody has one. We all naturally assume our own opinions are correct; no one thinks. I believe this because I know it is untrue. Wise people, however, seek out and listen to contrary views to see if they might have made a mistake; fools do not (Stanley).

Proverbs 12:15 says it bluntly: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel.” It’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? How often have we been so sure of ourselves that we refuse to acknowledge another perspective? And yet, the Father is not deceived by our certainty. Proverbs 16:2 reminds us that “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the motives.”
Fools are so sure of themselves and do not seek advice or guidance. They do not seek out contrary points of view or insight. They think they know it all. It never occurs to them that their motives may be skewed by self-interest or confirmation bias.

The Father, however, sees clearly. He examines not just our actions but our hearts. Jeremiah 17:10 affirms this truth: “But I, the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives.”

None of us will “arrive” in this life. Our understanding is always subject to refinement as new insights and aspects of the truth unfold. Whether it’s breakthroughs in science or a deeper grasp of the Scriptures, we must be willing to reassess and, if necessary, adjust our beliefs. This is a mark of wisdom—an openness to lifelong learning.

There is no shame in seeking correction. On the contrary, it’s a sign of maturity and humility. To cultivate a teachable spirit is to acknowledge that discipleship is not a one-time event but a lifelong commitment.

2 Timothy 2:15 encourages us to be diligent in this pursuit: “Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.”

The Greek word translated as work hard, be diligent, study, do your best is spoudazo. Spoudazo refers to “putting the utmost effort into some activity and trying as hard as possible.” It refers to “putting the utmost effort into some action;” hence, “make every effort” (UBS). The word has nuances of “being eager and zealous.” Guthrie writes that spoudazo contains the notion of “persistent zeal’” (George W. Knight). Wuest suggests the following translation, “Do your best, make haste, give diligence, hurry on, be eager to show yourself approved unto God.”

The Father is the CEO of the kingdom of God. The children of the King are His workers. There is no room for slackers among His children when it comes to knowing and sharing the Word of God. Yet how many children of the King are remiss in this area? Sadly, too many are content with a shallow understanding of Scripture when we are meant to dig deep, making it a part of who we are. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us of the living, active power of God’s Word, which should transform us from the Inside Out.

Paul’s instruction in 2 Timothy 2:15 isn’t merely a suggestion. He points us toward a life of diligence and purpose, urging us to be workers without shame when our efforts are examined. Are we living up to this call? If not, what steps of action can we undertake?

Here are some suggestions for those of us who want to remain teachable and avoid the pitfalls of foolishness:

Develop Humility – Put aside pride and self-justification. Acknowledge that you don’t know everything and remain open to correction.
Actively Seek Wisdom – Don’t wait for advice to come to you. Pursue counselors, mentors, and resources that can help you grow.
Be Diligent in Studying the Word – Go beyond surface-level understanding. Strive to deeply know the Scriptures, allowing them to shape your thoughts and actions.
Self-Reflect Regularly – Ask yourself tough questions. Are you truly seeking God’s truth, or do confirmation bias and a personal agenda drive you?

By striving for excellence and diligently pursuing truth, we honor Him and fulfill our role in His kingdom. To be a student, a disciple of Christ, is a lifelong calling—one we must never take lightly.

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