The longest trials in life will always bring us to the place of humility. Why? Our carnal nature causes us to contend with God. It seeks to play God. In reality it’s how we usurp His authority. Whether we believe it or not, God will give us opportunities to come to this truth and acknowledge Him as Sovereign God. The Holy Spirit tugs on heart to bring us to humility and integrity. How we respond makes all the difference.
RELEVANCE
We grow up in a world that teaches us to say at an early age, “look what I’ve done.” We are conditioned to point the scales of honor to self. This is pride. God is a jealous God who is faithful to uphold His name—Creator; God Almighty.
“Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the Lord your God and disobey his commands, regulations, and decrees… For when you have become full and prosperous… Do not become proud at that time and forget the Lord your God, who rescued you… He did this to humble you and test you for your own good. He did all this so you would never say to yourself, ‘I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy.’ Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful, in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath” (Deuteronomy 8:11-17NLT).
Even in the New Testament, we see that grace is not an excuse for pride or substitute for humility.
“Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble” (James 4:5-6).
REFLECT AND RELATE
Our conscience is our internal scale of justice. Ask the Holy Spirit to oil your internal scale or re-calibrate it and reveal truth.
REFERENCES
John 14:15-17; 16:7-15; 2 Corinthians 12:6-7