What Jesus Did! 'Striving for Greatness' — Matthew 18:1

Monday, August 18, 2025

About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?"
— Matthew 18:1 NLT

Key Thought

In our dreams as children, we are the greatest. In our professions, we may entertain illusions of our greatness. Even when we approach what is greatness in the eyes of others, we know that we have not arrived and we may dream of even greater things to do and greater heights to climb.

The longing for greatness is a strong motivator. But Jesus said that greatness, like life and so many other things, cannot be obtained by seeking what we desire. Instead, greatness is given when we follow Jesus and choose to live as servants!

Today's Prayer

Almighty Father, give me the wisdom to value people by Jesus' standard of greatness and not the standard of those who do not know Christ and his sacrifice. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Philippians 2:5-11
  • Matthew 16:25-26
  • Proverbs 3:5-6

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 18:1 NLT — About that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?"

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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