Divine promotion is not earned through ambition, scheming, or strategic networking, but through humble dependence on the Lord and a consistent walk of faith. God honors those who honor Him—not by the standards of the world, but by the metrics of faithfulness, humility, and spiritual maturity (1 Sam 2:30; Prov 3:5-6). As believers, we are called to be diligent and responsible in whatever roles we are given, but we must resist the temptation to take matters into our own hands in pursuit of advancement. Our job is to remain faithful; God’s job is to promote us when we are ready and when it serves His greater purpose.
Tag: Christian leadership
Jesus’ Ascension and Session
After Jesus’ resurrection, he appeared to many on several occasions. His final appearance was to His apostles. Luke wrote, “And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. While He was blessing them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven” (Luke 24:50-51). And in Acts we’re told, “He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight” (Acts 1:9). It’s important to note that Jesus ascended bodily into heaven, and that He will return the same way. Jesus’ ascension into heaven was the beginning of His session at the right hand of God.
The Power of Encouragement: Lessons From the Life of Barnabas
Barnabas was noted as being an encourager (Acts 4:36; 11:23), who sacrificed his own resources to be a blessing to others (Acts 4:37). He was called “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith” (Acts 11:24), and one—along with Paul—who “risked” his life “for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 15:26). Barnabas was not without his flaws; however, he possessed the qualities one would like to see in a Christian leader, as he sought to build the Christian community by means grace, love, and solid biblical instruction. Churches and Christians need people like Barnabas, who will stand with them, give them wise counsel, and encourage them in their walk with the Lord.