“And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.” – Mark 9:33-35 KJV

People who put others down in order to reach the top aspire to accomplish an evil thing. Elevation of status is not as important as fostering the right kind of attitude toward others. Indeed, one could certainly rise to the top while remaining at the bottom of the barrel, so to speak. Such people haven’t earned their status; instead, they’ve forced their way into it. And thus they occupy a place that they’re really not fit to fill.

That’s not to suggest that they don’t work hard. What it simply means is that they’re working for the wrong reasons, being more concerned about climbing higher than delving deeper into the meaning of what constitutes a character that’s truly fit for leadership.

Of course, they impress likeminded individuals, but not without making many enemies along the way. Do not fall into the snare of vanity; instead, fall into the arms of Jesus Christ; allow Him to do great things through you. It’s far more productive to learn how to work with and get along with others than to bask in self-conceit and relish opportunities to dictate their actions. Therefore don’t worry about being a master; seek to be a servant instead, and you will be a blessing to many!