Day 18 — “The Way of a Servant”

Matthew 20:26–28 (ESV)

26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Devotional Thought:

The pride of life measures greatness by position, recognition, and influence. It pushes us to seek status, visibility, and control. But Jesus redefines greatness entirely. In the Kingdom of God, greatness is not found in being served — it is found in serving.

Jesus did not lead through dominance or self-promotion. He led through humility, sacrifice, and love. Though He had all authority, He chose the posture of a servant. He lowered Himself so others could be lifted.

The pride of life resists this way. It wants acknowledgment and applause. It wants to be seen and affirmed. But fasting gently confronts these motives. It humbles us and reminds us that our lives are not about elevating ourselves, but about honoring God and serving others.

As we fast and pray, God reshapes our understanding of leadership, influence, and purpose. He teaches us that obedience often looks like hidden faithfulness and quiet service. When we choose the way of a servant, God entrusts us with greater responsibility in His time.

Today, we choose humility over recognition and service over status.

Prayer Focus:

• Ask the Lord to reveal areas where pride has shaped your desire for recognition

• Pray for a servant’s heart that reflects the example of Jesus

• Surrender the need to be seen, affirmed, or applauded

• Ask God to teach you how to serve others with humility and love

Prayer:

“Jesus, teach me Your way of humility and service. Remove pride and self-promotion from my heart. Help me serve faithfully, even when no one sees. Shape my life after Your example, and let my obedience bring glory to You alone. Amen.”