“Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” – 1 Peter 2:1-5 KJV

The wicked always seek to cater to self-interests. Their purpose isn’t to lift up the name of Jesus Christ and proclaim His good will, but to draw attention to themselves and waste time talking about their own agendas. Of course, they will inform you that they have a strong interest in doing what’s best for you, but not without trying to manipulate you into believing that your success is dependent on them. Thus, they push their ungodly agendas further and further as they get you to believe that you need them more than they need you. Hence making themselves out to be little christs, seeking to be praised and honored by men, when they ought to be encouraging others to look to and rely on the wisdom and Power of God alone. Indeed, they relish applause and covet the center of attention. They deceive themselves into believing that they are humble and that their work is good, but God knows what’s in their prideful hearts; He knows what lies underneath their works.

The godly are not so. They aspire holy living and inspire others to do the same, setting an example before them of what it means to love God and live in obedience to His commandments. Their interests are not in self alone, but are centered in Christ. They don’t make a show of themselves, seeking to draw attention to what they’ve done in the name of Christ, but encourage people to look to Jesus Christ as being the author and finisher of the good that has been done in and through them. Thus, they honor God by remembering that their roots are in Him, and glorify Him by allowing Him to lead them into the future. Moreover they don’t attempt to use the gifts of the Spirit as a tool to achieve their own end, but encourage each member to use their talents to the glory of God. In this way they make it known to all who belong to the body of Christ that they are appreciated and valued, and that their service is essential to the growth of the Church. Hence helping others to discover joy in serving Jesus Christ.

Which life best describes yours? What examples are your leaders setting for you?