A carnal person judges worth by comparison, but as believers, we must begin to look at things from God’s perspective. First Samuel 16:7 tells us exactly how God views things. It says, “For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
The Apostle Paul, who warned us of the dangers of comparison, also clarifies how we ought to treat one another. Romans 12:16 says, “Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.”
In other words, Paul reminds us that our behavior ought to be equal toward everyone. Because Acts 10:34 tells us that God does not respect one person above another, He expects us to live the same way.
Furthermore, Romans 12:16 warns us not to become high-minded by lifting ourselves up into a wrong position. Attitude toward position is a problem that hinders far too many people in the Body of Christ. All too often, people seek a place of position or some other means to get recognition.
Although I have several doctors in my church, I was impressed when they introduced themselves by their first name, instead of doctor so-and-so. Not only does a doctor have a prominent position, but also an impressive degree. So why didn’t the doctors in my church flaunt their position by using their formal title in their introduction? They didn’t need to use a professional title to identify themselves because they are confident in who they are as a person. Their position or degree isn’t who they are; it simply enables them to fulfill their calling.
Position in God’s kingdom is determined by God, not by man. Ephesians 4:11 says, “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers.” Although God has called some into fivefold ministry, He has given everyone the ministry of reconciliation no matter where they are employed. Second Corinthians 5:18 says, “Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.”
Dr. Larry Ollison is founder and Senior Pastor of Walk on the Water Faith Church and founder of Larry Ollison Ministries. With over forty years in the ministry, he is a very popular speaker nationally and internationally and ministers the Word of Faith through radio, television, Internet, and daily e-mail devotionals. As the author of eight books (including The Power of Grace, The Practical Handbook for Christian Living, Breaking the Cycle of Offense, Life is in the Blood, and recently released The Paradise of God), he is in frequent demand for radio/TV interviews, book signings, and magazine publications.
Dr. Ollison was raised a Southern Baptist. While majoring in theology at Southwest Baptist University, he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. For many years he traveled extensively speaking at Full Gospel Business Men's meetings and conventions. He later earned an M.A. in Theology and a Ph.D. and Th.D. from Life Christian University.
Currently President of International Convention of Faith Ministries (ICFM), Dr. Ollison is also Vice-President of Spirit FM Christian Radio Network, Missouri State Director of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), and a Trustee on the boards of several international ministries. He is also the host of The Cutting Edge Radio Broadcast and authors The Cutting Edge Daily Devotional.
As the owner of a marine dealership, his extensive business background brings a unique flavor to his teaching. He founded and served as chairman of the Missouri State Marine Board, President of the Marine Dealers’ Association, Vice-President of a bank holding company, along with holding several directorships in various corporations.
Dr. Ollison's strongest areas of teaching are the blood of Jesus, faith, relationships, the Hebrew language, the Holy Spirit, the end times, and heaven. During ministry, he operates freely in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. His use of humor and his ability to make a theological concept simple makes it enjoyable and easy for everyone to understand. Countless testimonies have been received from people who say their lives have been changed after experiencing Dr. Ollison's unique ministry.
Dr. Ollison is a pastor, pilot, teacher, and author. His number one goal is to meet the needs of the people through the teaching of faith in God's Word. He and his wife, Loretta, have two children and six grandchildren.