The Contrast

The Contrast--person on a throne with a "Me" arrow pointing toward him. An "others" arrow points to a long line of standing people behind him

Do we follow the messages of the world or the example of our Savior? The contrast leaves no room for in-between.

 

It’s a dog-eat-dog world! Look out for number one.

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people” (Galatians 6:10).

What can you do for me?

“What do you want me to do for you?” (Matthew 20:32).

Straighten up! What’s done is done. Nobody can do anything about it.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15).

Fight for the top spot! Show them who’s boss! Don’t let anyone stand in your way.

“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26).

The Contrast--lower hand reaches over a rock. Upper hand reaches down to help.
I’ve worked hard for what I have. I deserve a little fun. Why should I help others?

Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people” (Ephesians 6:7).

Say anything and then do what you want. Do as I say, not as I do. Whatever.

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth” (1 John 3:18).

You’ve got to be kidding! That task is beneath me. I won’t do it!

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet” (John 13:14).

The Contrast--Nail-scarred hand reaching out
It’s my life. I’ll do as I please. Nobody’s going to tell me what to do.

He’ll never amount to anything. Look at all he gave up — and for what?

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! … Come and share your master’s happiness!’” (Matthew 25:21).

Diana Derringer

Diana Derringer is an award-winning writer and author of Beyond Bethlehem and Calvary: 12 Dramas for Christmas, Easter, and More! Her articles, devotions, dramas, planning guides, Bible studies, and poems have been accepted about 1,400 times by 70-plus publications, including several anthologies. In addition, Diana writes radio dramas and question-and-answer television programs for Christ to the World Ministries. Her adventures as a social worker, adjunct professor, youth Sunday school teacher, friendship family for international university students, and caregiver for her husband supply a constant flow of writing ideas. For a free copy of Diana’s “Words of Hope for Days That Hurt” and her weekly Words, Wit, and Wisdom: Life Lessons from English Expressions, join her mailing list at https://dianaderringer.com.

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4 comments

  1. Well said. Christians need to stand out, modeling the behavior that Jesus taught and the wonderful God Who created us in His image.

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