I come from a modest background. My family lived in a lower middle class house in the typical suburban sprawl of the 1950s in Southern California. Neither of my parents held high paying or high level corporate jobs. We weren’t poor, by any means, but we didn’t have the luxuries that many around us had.
I am not complaining, but rather explaining my thought life after childhood. You see, I never aspired to greatness or even lofty positions. I heard the American promise that if you just work hard you can do anything. But I was satisfied in doing my best and letting that stand on its own. So I did get promotions on the job, and a few honors came my way over time. But I didn’t achieve anything that would make the general public stand in awe.
Regardless, I have lived a very satisfying life and have some wonderful experiences. But what about people who are in search of greatness and honors, and yet, are unable to achieve what they search for? I Samuel 2:8 has encouraging and comforting words for them: “He raises up the poor from the dust; he lifts the needy from the ash heap to make them sit with princes and inherit a seat of honor. For the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s, and on them he has set the world.”
No matter what low state we may be in, or think we are in, God in His grace lifts us up and gives us honor. This honor is far greater than any you can receive from this world. And it is an everlasting honor. All of us who are poor and needy can come to Him in faith and receive the joy, peace and love of Almighty God.
Reluctant Retiree 