I was talking to a preacher about his work in a small, struggling congregation.  There had been plenty of ‘ups and downs’.  I’ve admired his work there for some time and told him so.  His response impressed me.  He said, “it’s ditch-digging work.”  By that he meant his work was not flashy or spectacular.  There wasn’t any glamour or personal glory to be gained.  He wouldn’t develop a big reputation from what he was doing.  It was just plain, simple, hard work that needed to be done.  Thank God that there are men like him that are willing to do such “ditch-digging.”

We need the spirit that this godly servant expressed.  We need to remember that “he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted” (Matthew 23:11,12).

There’s way too much striving for personal glory in God’s kingdom.  We see far too many folks – preachers and others – who are more concerned about how they “look” in the eyes of others than they are about what they are really doing in productive work for the glory of God.  The Pharisees were of this mind-set.  Jesus said that “all their works they do for to be seen of men” (Matthew 23:5).  Sadly, they have many modern day counterparts.

Paul urged us to “let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3).  Let’s work hard to develop a servant’s heart.  What needs to be done?  Is it some “ditch-digging”?  If so, then roll up your sleeves and get to work!  Remember, “your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Cor. 15:58).

– by Greg Gwin