[Perspective] Humbled

As we kicked off the new year at church this past Sunday, my pastor drew our attention to Matthew 23:11… 

¹¹The greatest among you will be your servant. ¹²For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. 

Even though the theme of the message was “greater,” I could not get past the notion of being humbled. I began to search and read different meanings of the word humbled. In my search, I came across the following phrase: 

It is often used to describe a feeling of being small or insignificant in the face of something greater. 

Now the theme of greater made sense to me. As we look back on 2023, it is clear that something greater is at work here at the Foundation. We just concluded a year where we were able to process over $50 million in distributions to support the Lord’s work here in Arkansas and around the world. This number is far greater than anything I could have ever imagined. 

Also, in my search of definitions, I discovered an additional phrase: 

It is a state of mind that recognizes the role of luck, circumstance, and the contributions of others in our successes. 

Now this describes me as I think of my role here at the Foundation. I am humbled by the ministry I am tasked with leading. Personally, I recognize my own limitations and lean on our staff daily to carry out our ministry assignments. We are blessed with tremendously gifted staff who are called to serve others. 

Here is a brief list of the ways I am humbled… 

Humbled by our board of faithful servants who are willing to give of their time and knowledge. 

Humbled by the pastors of our state who I hold in reverence as they respond to the call on their lives. 

Humbled by the Godly and generous people we have the opportunity to serve. 

Humbled by the churches that work so diligently to minister to and reach their communities. 

Humbled by our sister agency who advocates for families and the needs of children in our state. 

Humbled by our institutions of higher education as they promote and provide a Christ-centered education to college students. 

Humbled by our camps as they create an environment where young people can hear and respond to the Gospel. 

Humbled to be part of a convention of churches that value missions, church planting, and the next generation. 

Finally, I am humbled by our Lord and Savior. I cannot help but have a sense of awe when considering the opportunities we have each day to serve in an effort to bring honor and glory to God. As we look forward to 2024, we strive to maintain a servant’s posture this year as we humbly avail ourselves to serve you, Arkansas Baptists.