Have you heard of Jeroboam II? He was probably the greatest king of ancient Israel. He ruled for 41 years; conquered Israel’s enemies; and brought peace, prestige, and prosperity. But do you know how many verses of the Bible are dedicated to him? Just seven (2 Kings 14:23-29). But it’s enough to tell us that Jeroboam II “did evil in the eyes of the Lord” (2 Kings 14:24). God doesn’t value political accomplishments. He seeks faithful hearts.
In contrast, there was a poor widow who lived in Zarephath, which wasn’t even in the land of Israel. This poor widow had nothing but one little son. She didn’t accomplish anything great, except humbly and faithfully baking bread each day for God’s prophet Elijah. Yet, do you know how many verses of the Bible are dedicated to her? Eighteen (1 Kings 17:7-24)! The Bible pays more attention to a poor widow than a conquering king.
Do you value what God values? Do you value prestige and prosperity and human accomplishments—like Jeroboam? Or do you value a humble trust in God’s promises that looks to serve others—like that widow?
Jesus and his cross teach us what God values: “God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him” (1 Corinthians 1:28,29). Jesus didn’t come for the great in the eyes of the world. He came for you. Why? Because God values you!
