26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 1 Corinthians 1
We don’t always realise HOW FORTUNATE WE ARE and the type of King and the Kingdom we serve. It’s interesting to note the calibre and quality of people who were chosen to serve King Nebuchadnezzar in Babylon.
3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring into the king’s service some of the Israelites from the ROYAL FAMILY AND NOBILITY – 4 YOUNG MEN WITHOUT ANY PHYSICAL DEFECT, HANDSOME, SHOWING APTITUDE FOR EVERY KIND OF LEARNING, WELL INFORMED, QUICK TO UNDERSTAND, AND QUALIFIED TO SERVE IN THE KING’S PALACE. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. Daniel 1
The bottom line was that ONLY THE BEST would get anywhere near this world leader and it’s just the same today. This world only wants the best, those who will be of use to them. MOST OF US WILL BE REJECTED BY THIS WORLD’S SYSTEM.
On the other hand Paul outlines a very different set of criteria for those who have been admitted to the Kingdom of God.
26 Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. NOT MANY of you were WISE by human standards; NOT MANY many were INFLUENTIAL; NOT MANY were of NOBLE BIRTH . 27 But God CHOSE THE FOOLISH THINGS of the world to shame the wise; God CHOSE THE WEAK THINGS of the world to shame the strong. 28 God CHOSE THE LOWLY THINGS of this world and the DESPISED THINGS – and the THINGS THAT ARE NOT – to nullify the things that are, 29 SO THAT NO ONE MAY BOAST BEFORE HIM. 1 Corinthians 1
Another long list, but this time it favours of those who don’t have many of this world’s advantages. In fact you’ll have a better chance of getting in if you’re needy. (Jesus words on its easier for the camel getting through the gate than the rich entering heaven Matthew 19:24)
WE OWE MUCH TO GOD that He chose the weak and humble things of this world to build His Kingdom.
31 Therefore, as it is written: ‘Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.’ 1 Corinthians 1, Quote from Jeremiah 9
24 but let the one who boasts boast about this:
that they have the understanding to know me,
that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness,
justice and righteousness on earth,
for in these I delight,’
declares the Lord. Jeremiah 9
God bless and keep you today. Immanuel, God is with us.