“I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John;” Luke 7:28a (NIV)
Success in the Merriam-Webster dictionary is defined as “a favorable or desired outcome.”
Let’s review the context of this verse. John the Baptist’s disciples have come to Jesus. John is in prison. His death is not far off. John himself has sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus if He is really the promised Messiah. Like John, they are confused. Doubt is setting in. Read the entire account in Luke 7:18-35.
Jesus affirms that John is a great prophet, but for sure John’s “success” did not meet most expectations. Dying by beheading doesn’t seem like a desired outcome, but “success” in God’s eyes often doesn’t square with the way men define the word.
So how should we apply this as military people? The answer isn’t complicated. Love and serve God; love and serve people, especially your family and others you may lead.
If promotion and awards come your way, great, but if somehow you don’t attain success in the manner the military defines it, don’t worry.
Faithfulness to God and service to others equals success.
The content of this Devotional comes from “Daily Strength for the Battle (You, God’s Word, 5 Minutes): Volume 6 Developing the Leader in You” (2020) and is copyrighted by Scott and Judy McChrystal. Used with permission.
