GREAT MEN – GREAT GOD

When General Ulysses S. Grant lay dying, he called for his pastor. As his pastor stood by his bedside, Grant asked, “Tell me, will God receive me?”

“Yes,” he replied, “for the Lord said, ‘Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.’”

General Grant, at that moment, came to the Lord. The pastor, both amazed and grateful for this startling conversation, said, “God’s Kingdom has just gained a great man!”

Quietly, but with great sincerity and dignity, Grant said to his pastor, “God does not need great men, but great men need God.”

General Grant put things in the proper perspective. It is not uncommon for those who achieve status and power, prestige and importance, to believe that God needs their help to keep the universe orderly. We hear much about the résumés and financial statements of prominent people who dominate the news. We offer our respect and esteem to those who move across the world’s stage, attempting to control events. We speak of the efforts and accomplishments of influential people as though they are the ones who keep our planet in orbit.

But, in the final analysis, even the most famous need God’s grace, mercy, and salvation as do those of lesser status. God, without man, is still God. But without God, we are nothing, and life becomes meaningless and empty. He alone can bring purpose and dignity into our lives.

Prayer:  Father, we thank You with grateful hearts for Your salvation through Jesus Christ, Your Son. May we recognize our need for You, and serve You faithfully. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. John 6:37