“To be or not to be” is the opening phrase in the Shakespeare play “hamlet.”

“To be” or “not to be” is a choice. One must choose “to be” or “not to be.”

I know, sounds like a lot of modern theology or maybe words from a former Vice President - sincerely, no disrespect, just an observation.  But, “to be” is biblical.

To be a christian, one must chose to repent of their sins and come to Jesus Christ not only as Savior but as Lord - you chose to be a “Christ follower!”  You become a “be!”

The “Be’s” in the Bible are intended to shape our character, our attitudes, our actions as Christ followers.

Be still and know that I am God!  (Ps 46:10)

Be strong in the Lord  (Eph.6:10)

Be joyful in hope  (Ro.12:12)

Be devoted to one another  (Ro.12: 10)

Be kind and compassionate  (Eph. 4:32)

Be alert and sober minded  (1 Pet.5:8)

Be faithful  (Rev.2:10)

Be filled with the Holy Spirit  (Eph.5:18)

Be holy for I am holy  (1 Pet.1:16)

BE GREAT!?

You’re right if you think the bible does not say to be great!

We aspire to greatness in different areas of our life. I aspire to be a great son - a great brother - great husband - great father - great grandpa - great employee - great pastor - great preacher - great runner - a great follow of Jesus Christ!

But what makes an individual great?  What makes a nation great?  What makes a church great?  What is true greatness?  

In Jesus’ words, “…whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant…for even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (cf. Mk. 10:43-45)  So humility and servanthood is at the root.

The bible, in the book of Deuteronomy (ch.4) the LORD God called Israel “a great nation” three times.  Three marks of true greatness can be gleaned from this text. True greatness seeks God’s wisdom and understanding in all matters of life and death.  True greatness understands that personal prayer with the LORD our God is a priority because it draws us closer to Him, His presence.  True greatness sincerely seeks God’s word to guide their life.  The world has its measuring rod for greatness (temporal).  The LORD God has His measuring rod for greatness (eternal). 

By the grace of God I want to be measured by God’s greatness - how about you?!

Pastor Rodney   

Ecclesiastes 12: 9-14