Indignant Jealous

24 When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. 25 But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 26 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. 28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

- Matthew 20: 24-28

Why did the other disciples feel indignant when they wanted positions in the heavenly Kingdom of GOD beside Jesus? Indignant is showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment. Was it unfair that they asked this or their mother asked this from JESUS? They probably want the same position and they were annoyed that they had the nerve to ask this from HIM. Jealousy is a common thing, people compete for positions, wealth, credits and even love. But in the Kingdom of GOD, it is different. You can't ever fight for it, you can only earn it by being in the humblest position first.

Jesus says that to be able to have the highest position in the Kingdom of Heaven one has to be the greatest servant. Whoever wants to be the first should be the last. It is not easy to be in the last because we are taught to fight for first place in this world. It is cool to be on top than to be at the bottom. But those who belong to the LORD never have to be indignant of other's wealth, they never have to compete for wordly positions or fame, they rarely feel jealous of others success because they are not seeking for the applause of the world. What they are after are GOD's approval and favor on them. They only have themselves to compete with, staying faithful and truly humble to please GOD.