Bible Reading: James 4:5-12 KJV
- James 4:10 KJV
In the previous devotionals we gained an understanding of pride and its dire consequences as described in Proverbs 16:18. Pride is a subtle yet destructive force that can creep into our lives, causing us to exalt ourselves above others. When we are proud, we are blinded to our own limitations and weaknesses, and we become arrogant and self-reliant. Thus relying on our own strength and wisdom rather than on God's guidance. This can lead to spiritual downfall and alienation from God. But there is a cure for pride.
Put simply, the cure for pride is humility, offering us a path to spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God. By acknowledging our need for God's guidance and wisdom, we can overcome the destructive influence of pride and find strength in our vulnerability.
The Bible teaches us of the importance of humility and the dangers of pride. By recognizing our weaknesses and limitations, we can become teachable, receptive to God's instruction, and open to the transformative power of His Word. James 4:10 (KJV) states, "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up." This verse tells us to humble ourselves before God. Humility is not a sign of weakness, but a recognition of our dependence on God and our need for his grace.
In Matthew 23:12 (KJV), we read, "And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." This verse teaches us that those who exalt themselves will be brought low, while those who humble themselves will be exalted. It is a reminder that we should not seek to promote ourselves, but instead seek to serve others and follow God's will.
The Power of Humility In Philippians 2:3-4 (KJV), we read: "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." This passage encourages us to seek humility and to put the needs of others before our own. Once again, it reminds us that humility is not a sign of weakness, but a recognition of our dependence on God and our need to serve others.
The Perfect Example of Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ exemplified perfect humility throughout His life on earth. Philippians 2:5-8 (KJV) describes His humility as such, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Jesus, though He was God Himself, willingly humbled Himself to the point of death for our sake. His life serves as a profound example of how humility leads to exaltation and favor from God.
How To Practice Humility in Daily Life
Practical humility involves:
- Acknowledging God's Sovereignty: Recognizing that God is in control of all things and submitting ourselves to His will (James 4:7, KJV).
- Esteeming Others: Considering others as more significant than ourselves and serving them with love and compassion (Philippians 2:3-4, KJV).
- Accepting Correction: Being open to correction and guidance from God and wise counsel from others (Proverbs 12:1, KJV).
Conclusion
Humility is not weakness but strength under control, rooted in a deep trust in God's wisdom and goodness. Humility is not thinking less of ourselves, but rather thinking of ourselves less. It is recognizing our dependence on God and acknowledging our limitations. When we humble ourselves before God, we open ourselves up to His grace and mercy, and we become more receptive to His guidance and direction. Let us strive to cultivate humility in our lives, and let us seek to be more like Christ, who humbled Himself to save us.
