Thinking too lowly
Jacob Ninan
A sober judgment“I can do nothing on My own initiative.” (Jn.5:30 NASB) In Jesus we find a true balance, which He has given us as an example. In the above words He clarifies that even as the Son of God He lived as the Son of Man. He did not make decisions on His own, but listened to what the Father had to say. Sometimes our balance is lost in such a way that we have no self-confidence or self-esteem and we allow other people to manipulate us or walk over us. Surely that is not what it means to be a servant leader.
God has made each of us in His image, giving us the ability to think for ourselves and choose what we want to do. He has also made us so unique that there is no one else who is just like us or who can do exactly what we can do. His plan for each of our lives is also specific and particular. It is the fact that He sent His Son to die for us so that we could have a relationship with Him that shows us how much He values us.
Our self-confidence is not in ourselves or our knowledge, strength or skills. Our confidence comes from knowing God as our Father and recognising our responsibility to accomplish His plans. Certainly we cannot do anything apart from His grace. But at the same time, we can do all things which He has planned for us to do.
The proud man gets his way by being aggressive and trampling others down. But the man with godly confidence asserts himself to accomplish what he is called to do. He does not allow others to dictate terms to him, while he himself does not become defiant or rebellious.
Where do we stand in this area? Would we classify ourselves as ‘timid’ or laid back? Let us get inspiration from the example of Jesus. The Holy Spirit can give us boldness as we lean on Him.
Lord, help me to be bold and to put my confidence in You, so that I can accomplish everything You have planned for me.
Published in Management Devotional - Biblical insights for daily work life 2016, Christian Institute of Management.