Tag: humble yourself
Humbly Seek His Face!
Scripture reading for August 10: 2 Chronicles 7:12-14 “Then the Lord appeared to Solomon in the night and said to him: “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for Myself as a house of sacrifice. When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, if My people who are called by My Name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.”
According to Jesus, in this world, we will have trouble. We are told to be of good cheer and live in peace, for He has overcome the world and it’s ultimate trouble, sin and death. (John 16:33) Time and chance happen to all people, including God’s people. Bad things happen, sickness strikes, and habits of the flesh bring consequences. But God made provision for His people in dealing with this trouble. They must come with a sacrifice to His house and humbly seek His face.
In the Old Covenant, God called His people who were experiencing troubles related to sin, either their own or that of the people of the world, to come to Him in prayer. He encouraged them to come humbly confessing sins and needs and seeking His face for forgiveness and healing. God gives grace to the humble but He opposes the proud and rebellious. This famous passage from 2 Chronicles 7:14 was God’s response to Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the temple. God promised to hear their humble prayers, confessions of sin, and to bring healing to them and their land. Sin affects people but also the land. Drought, famine, and pestilence are all related judgments of God that are consequences of sin. God is the only source of rain, multiplication of seeds sown, and deliverance from insects and pests.
Under the New Covenant, Jesus Christ has perfectly obeyed the Law of God and offered His own body and blood as the perfect and final sacrifice. He prayed “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” Believers in Jesus can come with confidence before God’s throne and find grace and help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16) What a Savior and Lord! Amen!
Unity and humble service
Scripture reading for September 3: Philippians 2
“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, Who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death upon a cross.” Philippians 2:1-8
A great key to living a life that pleases God is to find unity with Christ and His followers. Paul understood the basics of building unity were found in Christ Jesus and His Holy Spirit. Jesus was motivated by a deep love for God and those created in His image. He chose to only do what the Father desired, so that He and the Father were One. He gave up personal privilege and comfort as God’s Son to take on human flesh and suffering temptation like all other men, but without sin. He then willingly gave His life on the cross as a sacrifice for all mankind that the penalty of sin would be paid for.
When we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, He will lead us in unity with God the Father and Jesus. He will give us a heart of love for God and mankind. He will help us to focus on what pleases God and best serves those in His image. We begin to value others higher than ourselves and look out for their highest good. We become servants of God on behalf of others, sharing with them the Gospel in loving actions and words of truth. We put God and Christ first and unity is the byproduct of humble hearts that follow Jesus by the Holy Spirit.
How does Paul’s call to humble service and imitating Jesus clash with the world view of our culture? Why is there so little unity in our culture and even the church? Do you ever struggle with viewing others as better than yourself, especially those who are themselves proud and conceited?
Prayer: Father God, forgive me for sometimes lacking true humility towards others who may be proud and disobedient. Help me to maintain the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace as I serve You by loving them and serving them. Thank You for the mind of Christ through the Holy Spirit in me. Amen.
Beware of putting on a show.
Scripture reading for January 31: Matthew 23
“They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi by others. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, Who is in heaven. Neither be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Christ. The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:5-12
Jesus warned His disciples about the religious showmen of His day, the Pharisees and scribes. Their religious deeds were meant to be seen by others so that their reputation might be enhanced. Pride and desire for glory was behind their showmanship. They wanted approval of men and places of honor and people looking upon them for their prestigious titles. These people were setting themselves up for a humbling experience.
But followers of Jesus would find true greatness in becoming servants of God and others. The titles of ministry or leadership were not to be sought after. Each follower had One Rabbi and Teacher, Jesus Christ, Who Alone was worthy of praise and exaltation. No man was to be called ‘father’ because all have One Father, God Almighty. The posture of assuming the lowest place of a servant would bring reward.
Do you see any aspects of your life today where you are seeking the approval of men rather than God? Are titles and places of honor something you crave? What is one thing you could do to humble yourself?
Prayer: Father God, thank You for this plain warning concerning the pride of life and seeking man’s approval. I know that I have fallen into that trap at times in my life. Thank You for the correction and direction that comes from Your Word and the Holy Spirit. Have Your way in me, Lord! Amen.
Heaven’s greatest!
Scripture reading for January 24: Matthew 18
“At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to Him a child, He put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one such child in My Name receives Me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” Matthew 18:1-6
Fame, fortune and beauty define the greatest people in the eyes of the world. Therefore, the world is always seeking prestige from great accomplishments, earning large amounts of money, or being especially beautiful or handsome. All these accomplishments most often come with pride and promotion and competition for the top spots. Contests are set up, lists of famous people are made, and fortunes are totaled to determine the winners.
But Jesus’ disciples asked Him who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Their motive was probably to have Jesus confirm one of them in that role but Jesus took this opportunity to expand their world view. He found a child and had him put in their midst and made a bold statement. “Whoever humbles himself like this child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” This was a challenge to their current self-centered view of being the greatest disciples. Not that this desire was bad, but the path to greatness was through humility and serving and learning God’s way of the cross. They were also warned to be careful that their worldly attitudes and actions might cause the children to go astray. This would bring eternal loss and judgment.
Are you currently seeking fulfilment through the world’s path of pride and accomplishment? Have you considered the children in your life that you are influencing? What actions will you take to respond?
Prayer: Father God, I confess that I have desired ‘greatness’ in this world system. Thank You for showing me my children and my need to become like a child and learn from You and them. Lead me today in the path of true greatness and humble service. Amen.
Grace to the humble!
Scripture reading for April 4th: James 4, Psalm 67, Proverbs 5
James 4: 6-10 “But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you doubleminded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will exalt you.”
Our world operates on pride and is centered on getting what we want when we want it. This causes strife and quarrels, even in the church of Jesus Christ! James, as a wise pastor, was emphasizing to the church the need for God’s grace in each person and in the church family. God gives grace in abundance, but there is the requirement of humility. When we are in a prideful attitude, putting ourselves first, God actually is opposing us! Who can be blessed or find grace when God is opposing them? This pride is demonic in nature, because it is the devil’s nature. The simple solution, according to James, is to resist the devil and draw near to God. The devil will flee and God will then draw near to you. True humility brings repentance first and then exaltation and the joy of God’s grace and smile in our life.
Psalm 67:1-3 “May God be gracious to us and bless us and make His face to shine upon us, that Your way may be known on earth, Your saving power among all nations. Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You!”
Prayer: Father God, I pray the prayer of the psalmist in Psalm 67. Be gracious to us and bless us and make Your face shine on us, that through Your smile and favor, we may reflect Your ways to those on earth and Your saving power among all peoples. I humble myself to draw nearer to You each day that I may learn Your ways and become more like You in the humility of You amazing grace.
Proverbs 5:1-2 “My son, be attentive to My wisdom; incline your ear to My understanding, that you may keep discretion, and your lips may guard knowledge.”
The power of a godly example
Scripture reading for October 18th: 1st Peter 5
Key Scriptures: 1st Peter 5:1-4 “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”
Jesus chose twelve disciples and called them to follow Him. His training initially and even to the last was mentoring and modeling how to walk in this world and how to seek and save the lost. Jesus was the Chief Shepherd and taught the disciples He was the Good Shepherd Who would, as a perfect example, lay down His life for His sheep. Jesus did not work for money or fame nor was He a domineering or harsh taskmaster. He was filled with grace, even as He suffered on the cross praying, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” Peter was shaped by Jesus and now called those in leadership in the church to set godly examples for Christ’s flocks. Reward awaits the faithful and obedient.
1st Peter 5:6-7 “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.”
Faith confession and prayer: Father, thank You for sending Your Son Jesus as a powerful example of holiness and consecration. Thank You for the privilege of serving You as an elder in Your Church. I am eager to set an example for others as You empower me with Your Holy Spirit. Thank You for Your daily care for me and for Your church as we wait for Your return and our complete restoration. I will worship You forever and ever!
1st Peter 5:10 “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, Who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To Him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
We need more grace!
Scripture reading for October 8th: Jeremiah 27, 28, 29, 24, James 4
Key Scriptures: James 4:6-10 “But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.”
James speaks plainly to the church concerning their need for God’s grace. Pride was causing quarreling and fighting and division in the church. God opposes the proud. Satan’s pride got him thrown out of heaven and he was seeking to cause division here. In order to get God’s grace, humility and submission to God was required. The humble must draw near to God through Jesus Christ and find cleansing through repentance and faith in the promises of God. Mocking and laughter concerning sins will only bring God’s opposition. Humility and repentance will bring life and exaltation.
Faith confession and prayer: Lord Jesus, I need more grace. I humbly draw near to You each day for strength and truth to resist the devil and live victoriously.
Jeremiah 29:11-13 “”For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will hear you. You will seek Me and find Me, when you seek Me with all your heart.””
Cast those cares!
Scripture reading for November 13th: Ezekiel 2-5, 1st Peter 5
Key Scriptures: 1st Peter 5:6-9 “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.”
Living in faith requires humility. We who believe must entrust all of our lives to God–the good and the trials of suffering. We must stay alert to the tricks of the enemy of our souls and resist the fear he tries to stir up. God cares for you and has promised to exalt you at the proper time. Cast those cares and resist the devil and his roars!
Ezekiel 2:6 “And you, son of man, be not afraid of them, nor be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns are with you and you sit on scorpions.”
Prayer: Lord, thank You for caring for me and the promise of eternal life with You. Help me to cast all my cares and worries on You today. Amen.
Have mercy on Me!
Scripture reading for March 28th: Judges 9-12, Luke 19
Key Scriptures: Luke 18:13-14 “But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Jesus told the story of two men who went to the temple to pray. The first, a Pharisee, prayed arrogantly, exalting his own goodness in keeping the law. The second, a tax collector, asked God for mercy and confessed his sins. Jesus plainly stated that the one who humbled himself was justified by God.
Judges 10:14-16 “”Go and cry out to the gods whom you have chosen; let them save you in the time of your distress.” And the people of Israel said to the Lord, “We have sinned; do to us whatever seems good to you. Only please deliver us this day.” So they put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord and He became impatient over the misery of Israel.”
Prayer: Lord, have mercy on me today for my sins and poor choices. I humble myself before You and ask for Your deliverance. Amen.
Have mercy on me, a sinner!
Scripture reading for April 16th: Luke 18:1-17
It’s easy to be self-righteous! We are prone to think very highly of ourselves and focus on the other people who are ‘worse’ sinners than we are. Church people are very often the best at this, because they think that going to church or doing something for the poor brings them into special merit with God. But God is not as impressed with our attempts to look good as we are. Jesus told a story to help His disciples better understand their need for humility.
“To some who were confident in their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else, Jesus told them this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men–robbers, evildoers, adulterers–or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.” “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.'” (Luke 18:9-13)
The Pharisee went home as he came–proud and full of himself! He was oblivious to his real need of deliverance from pride. He was eager to see the faults of others, but missed the ‘log’ of self-righteousness in his own eye! He was confident in himself and his own ability to do what God required by keeping the law and earning his standing with God and failed to ask God for mercy for this fatal sin. To the rest of the world, it probably looked like this Pharisee had it right, but Jesus saw it otherwise!
Any Jewish person who worked as a tax collector was considered a ‘sinner’ by the society of Jesus’ day. But this man was humble and recognized his need of forgiveness. He confessed that he was a sinner and took ownership of his own mistakes. He did not blame God or claim to be a victim of someone else’s sin. He humbly asked God for the mercy he knew he needed. This attitude caught Jesus’ attention and Jesus said that this man went home justified! “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14b)