The Upside Down Kingdom of God

Matthew 20:16 (NIV): “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

What Does The Bible Say About Serving Others?

This verse is the bookend of the “Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard” and is a perfect example of God’s Upside Down Kingdom, or how Jesus’ teachings flip worldly values on their head. From God’s perspective, the last are first, the humble are exalted, and the servant is the leader. The world tells us that the harder you work and the richer you are, the more you deserve. Jesus tells us that grace is not earned, but it is a gift. Jesus tells us that whether you’ve been a Christian your whole life or just started your walk, we all have abundant access to the ever-flowing grace, mercy, and love that comes with being a child of God. We are all saved; position and pride don’t matter. In a world full of climbing ladders, Jesus challenges us to lay down our pride, status, and expectations.

Now Let's Pray

Dear Heavenly Father thank You for transforming our hearts and drawing us closer into Your divine standards. I ask that You continue to challenge us to lay down our pride and ego at Your feet as we fully submit to Your teachings. Please humble us and surround us with a community that will hold us accountable to servant leadership and generosity. Give us the strength to draw on You to pour from our hearts even when we are in our lowest seasons.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.