Being a Selfless Servant

Since it was first published in 1927, My Utmost for His Highest has been an inspiration to millions of Christians. Yet few know that its author, Oswald Chambers, did not actually “write” this book. When Chambers died in 1916, he left behind articles, lectures, and other materials he had written. But it was his wife, Biddy, who compiled and edited the content into a book.

In his biography of Chambers, David McCasland tells how “Biddy herself was the editor and publisher.” She even “paid for the first edition to be printed.” Yet “nowhere in the book did it mention her name or her work of taking shorthand notes, typing the talks, and merging paragraphs…into a coherent reading.”

As a result, millions of people have been blessed, not only because of the inspirational writings of Oswald Chambers, but also because of the selfless dedication of Biddy Chambers. She was a woman content to work in the background, without credit or attention, to further God’s Kingdom.

This is the kind of selfless devotion that God rewards. Jesus said that we are to take up our cross daily and follow Him. We are not to seek the attention or praise of others. Rather, He desires that we live for Him, as His servants.

Today, remember: If you want to become great in the sight of God, you must learn to be a servant (Mark 10:43-44). As a faithful steward, seek first His Kingdom. And as you serve Him, be a model of selfless devotion to others as well.