GREATNESS

"Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side" (Psa 71:21)

When God increases your greatness, one thing is very sure - you will find comfort everywhere and the Lord Himself will be comforting you in times of trials and troubles. However, in Daniel 8:4-7, we read of a ram (male sheep) becoming great by pushing westward and northward and southward. "I saw the ram pushing westward and northward and southward... he did according to his will and became great." Yes, you can become great in two ways. First, according to Psalm 71:21, when God increases your greatness, you will be great indeed. Secondly, as mentioned in Daniel 8:4, you can become great by pushing yourself around - doing your own will and influencing people with money, materials or alluring words.

What happened to the ram that pushed and became great? In verse 5 we read that a he-goat came in a rage and stamped the ram to the ground and destroyed it. This is a warning for all those who usurp authority to be leaders - politically, spiritually or otherwise. With your pushing and pulling, your manoeuvring, manipulating or crookedly influencing people with sweet words or attractive incentives, you may become great. But remember, the end will be disastrous; you will never find comfort in your elevated position. However, when God raises you, no one can stand against you, and in every situation the Lord will comfort you; you will find comfort and will be a comfort to others.

"Ability may take you to the top but only character can keep you there."

- Late Pastor T.U.Thomas in "Morning Manna"