Matthew 20
The children worked long and hard on their little cardboard shack. It was to be a special spot—a clubhouse, where they could meet together, play, and have fun. Since a clubhouse has to have rules, they came up with three:
Nobody act big.
Nobody act small.
Everybody act medium.
Not bad theology! In different words, God says the very same thing: "Let each of you regard one another as more important than himself" (Philippians 2:3). "Through love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13).
Just "act medium." Believable. Honest, human, thoughtful, and down to earth. Regardless of your elevated position or high pile of honours or row of degrees or endless list of achievements, just stay real.
What is it Solomon said? "Let another praise you...a stranger, and not your own lips" (Proverbs 27:2).
Meaning what? Meaning no self-reference to some enviable accomplishment. Meaning refusal to scratch a back when yours itches. Meaning no desire to manipulate and manufacture praise. Meaning authentic surprise when applauded.
Like the inimitable Principal Cairns, headmaster of an English school, who was walking onto the platform along with other dignitaries. As he stepped up, a burst of spontaneous applause arose from the audience. In characteristic modesty, Cairns stepped back to let the man behind pass by...as he began to applaud his colleague. He genuinely assumed the applause was for another.
But one final warning: Don't try to fake it. False humility stinks worse than raw conceit.
The answer is not in trying to appear worthless or "wormy." The answer lies in consistently taking notice of others' achievements, recognizing others' skills and contributions...and saying so. That's called serving others in love. And that's what Christ did.
"Nobody act big. Nobody act small. Everybody act medium."
Such good advice from a clubhouse full of kids who, by the way, are pretty good at practicing what they preach.
Make yourself a little plaque with this rule on it and put it in a place where you will see it every day.
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Excerpted from Day by Day with Charles Swindoll, Copyright © 2000 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. (Thomas Nelson Publishers). All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.