Choose the best seat in His Kingdom ~ Mike MacIntosh

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Him, saying, "Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask." And He said to them, "What do you want Me to do for you?" They said to Him, "Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on Your left, in Your glory." But Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" They said to Him, "We are able." So Jesus said to them, "You will indeed drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism I am baptized with you will be baptized; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared."
Mark 10:35-40

James and John were right next to Jesus, following alongside Him for over three years. And yet, they had the nerve to ask Jesus if they could sit at His right and left hand in heaven. Not only was this heresy, but they misunderstood something very significant: Jesus was right there with them the entire time! James and John were face-to-face with the creator of the universe. They had the ability to be taught and discipled by God Himself. And yet they missed the opportunity, all because of greed and pride.

Jesus wants to teach you today, and tomorrow, and the next day. Are you at a place where you desire to listen to Him and to be taught by Him? Or are you more concerned about the future, whether here on earth or in heaven? Take this little lesson from the life of James and John to focus your attention on the things that matter. The world is lost and in need of Jesus. You have a message that needs to be shared. The love of Jesus Christ and His payment for sin is good news to a dying world. Don't be so focused on the wrong priorities. Spend time with Jesus in the Word and in prayer. Ask Him what you ought to be doing today. Don't allow the enemy to distract you from your mission. Sit at Jesus' feet every day and enjoy His presence now.