Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. 1 Corinthians 3:18 NIV
A little context: the church in Paul's day was caught up in a popularity contest. The people were all about the visible and audible ministries of 'great' men of God amongst them. Paul and Apollos had laboured among the church, yet all the members could see was the individual minister, not the power or the inspiration behind the ministry. We also get caught up too, where we elevate men above the One who calls and equips them for the ministry that has been a blessing to us.
Sometimes, it is the men who elevate themselves, making themselves 'visible' and seemingly 'irreplaceable'. Such men have gone to the extreme of ascribing God's work to themselves, or claiming to speak on God's behalf when God hasn't sent them. This is the season of fear, when men need to hear things that set their hearts at rest. Unfortunately, no else can play God's role in your heart other than God Himself. He wants to take total control of my heart, so His peace can reign in there. He will not force Himself on me, but He will also not contend with me forever.
The above is the foundation of today's extract. Lest anyone think he can beat God at this game of relevance, remember that it is God who calls, equips, commissions and commands. There is no wisdom in thinking that you can do without God, or you can share glory with Him for impacting His earth. True wisdom dictates that I have the clear understanding of who I am, what I have been called to do, where I have been asked to stand and minister and when I am to quit if required. That is wisdom. The world teaches the opposite, demanding you milk the situation for as long as you can. If it is God's work that is handled this way, God will take glory but the person will not get very far.
Become a 'fool' for the sake of the Word and Work of God. Be so totally dependent on God that you will say or do nothing without speaking to Him first. Resolve that you will keep away from all schemes to keep men's attention on you, and you will draw men's attention to God. Resolve to know no man except God, and to pursue all that glorifies Him. Remember, we are all God's creation, made in His likeness. My highest and noblest achievement will be the discovery, pursuit and fulfillment of the purpose of God's call, giftings and placement upon my life. The world is awaiting the manifestation of the sons of God. His time of favour is here.
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