Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men. — Proverbs 22:29
You may or may not have noticed, but most people are not good at what they do. Pick any skill, vocation, or pursuit you like. By definition, half of the population is below average in performing that vocation, skill or pursuit. Add the people who are slightly above average to the half who are below average, and you’ll realize that the statement is true: most people are not really good at what they do.
Students who come to the Ranch often come with lofty career dreams. Many of these dreams for the future have to do with professional sports. We don’t try to crush their dreams, but the fact is that most student-athletes don’t make it to the top echelon. As the NCAA student-athletes in commercials used to say, “Most of us are going pro in something other than sports.”
But here is the good news: you don’t have to have a high profile career to be a success. You can serve in the king’s court even if you are not a dignitary. People who are truly excellent at what they do are rare — in Solomon’s day and in ours. The world needs highly skilled plumbers, auto mechanics, computer programmers, janitors, and chefs. And those who are truly excellent at anything will stand out.
Horst Schulze is a world-renowned hotelier. As President of the Ritz-Carlton hotel chain, he was one of the pioneers of the 5-star, luxury hotel concept. By worldly standards, he has been tremendously successful. How did he become such a success? He is fond of putting it like this: “I am just a waiter. But I’m the best waiter in the world.” Mr. Shulze began his career waiting tables. Along the way, he strove to be the best. He observed what truly excellent service looked like, and he served with excellence wherever he was.
You don’t have to pursue a lofty, prestigious career in order to stand out. Rather than try to become something you are not cut out to be, why not ask the Lord what you are truly gifted in? Then, whatever your gifting and calling is, strive to be excellent at it. If you are truly skilled, you will serve before kings.
Want more good news? If you’re trusting in Christ, you’re already serving the King. You are welcome in His court anytime, and not just as a servant but as a dearly loved child. Seek an audience with Him today, and offer Him your best. He is worthy! And you’ll find true joy in serving Him.
