Matthew 20:16 – “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

Does it matter if someone’s promises from God were fulfilled quickly, when others endured decades before their arrival? It’s not up to us to measure the fairness of that.

Isaiah 55:8 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.

Should a person disqualify himself because he thinks he should earn seniority? Should he anticipate what God may do, by corporate standards? Should he reject an offer that others “earned” by being faithful longer?

That would be a huge shame, a tragic waste of an opportunity. He should take what God offers even if he has suffered little, waited less, or believed only briefly compared to others.

Those who endured much didn’t do so without gain. Those who remained hopeful of God through challenging circumstances, amassed patience, character, wisdom, insight and depth during the wait. Those who were spared suffering, or were the cause of their own hardships, will never understand all that a long-sufferer learned from injustice. Know that the faithful are not unrewarded. Let him reconcile his “unearned” blessings with that, if he must.

There is no reason to disqualify himself because he just came on board with what others were faithful to for years. He can and should jump into the opportunities God offers and allows him, even if he previously criticized or disbelieved it. It’s God’s offer. Who are we to view God’s ways through world-based lenses?

I pray we are given eyes to see God’s way. Without his view, we risk rejecting the abundant life he offers. What a waste that would be, a decision not without consequences. Imagine disqualifying ourselves from full potential, only to later realize the gravity of our error. Talk about regret.

So, let the last be first. And when he takes his position, let him demonstrate humility, gratitude, and respect to the faithful before him.

Proverbs, 22:4 – “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.”