God's Word For Today

Daily Devotional

Be Prepared to Serve

Read Mark 10:32 through 13:37

James and John came to Jesus with a request. One wanted to be seated on the right side of Jesus and the other seated on His left in His kingdom.

“You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” (Mark 10:38).

James and John didn’t understand what lay ahead for Jesus. They were thinking of themselves and what it would mean to sit next to Jesus. Jesus went on to tell them in the next verses that whoever would be great must also be willing to serve others.

People sometimes want positions that please them, without knowing the price that must be paid or the commitment needed for that place. They may not know what lies ahead if they accept that responsibility. They know it will look good on their record if they have the best jobs, but there’s a price to pay for commitment. Those who would be first must also be willing to serve.

Prayer Suggestion: Lord, help me have a servant’s heart, willing to serve others.

Quicklook: Mark 10:35–45