“But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.”

Mark 10:31 (KJV)

Those of us that have walked with the Lord over a period of time, run the greatest risk of ending up in the back of the line. The tendency is to get fatigued and lazy about spiritual things. Some have found themselves dealing with things they never thought they would be involved with in two lifetimes. Others have been wounded and greatly disappointed with the whole issue of church as we know it today. As a result, our zeal is gone. We are too familiar with ministry, fatigued with pastors and all the weaknesses of spiritual leadership. The buzz of disgruntlement is deafening in contrast to the genuine voices of those who still appreciate spiritual leadership and love Jesus, despite all the issues.

Our text warns us that the first shall be last and that those who just started will outpace the veterans. How can this happen when the expectation is that time and experience should induce a deeper walk and love for Jesus, which should translate to love for His children and for His work?

Let’s consider the environment of our text. The previous verses give us clarity to this mystery. How can people that have been on this journey end up at the back? The text below answers the question. 

“And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.” 

Mark 10:29-30 (KJV)

The Scripture says the answer to this mystery is doing things only for the single purpose of Him and His gospel. Motive is everything.

Do you remember when you were zealous for Him? There was nothing you would not do for Him and for His kingdom. You were there whenever and wherever you were needed to help, pray, counsel or whatever was needed. You gave to Him without reservation. All you had belonged to God. There was no sacrifice too big.

Now, you are mature, wiser and more comfortable. Armed with the jaundice of church fatigue, immature leaders and self-appointed prophets, you are hurt, disappointed and disenchanted. Some are even disillusioned with the whole idea of church. Some gave so much, but were abused by people and even leadership.

The bottom line is that you are lukewarm, and you seldom make sacrifices for Him. Some of us don’t even go to church anymore. Beloved, this will cost you in the end.

Yes! You may have found fault with church, people and everything. You may even be correct. However, what fault have you found in Jesus? Absolutely none. Forget all of us and re-focus on Him. Don’t let your yesterday be more powerful than your today. If your level of zeal and sacrifice is lower this year than it has been in the past, you are back peddling. Back peddlers will end up in the back of the line. Don’t let it happen to you.

May the Lord bless you. I love you. 

Apostle Chika