And a haughty spirit before a fall” (James 16:18 )
Pride was then interpreted as being conceded
and that God really hated people that were conceded. This did not make a lot of
since to me since I was also told that God loves everyone.
Then the Lord began to teach me that pride
believes that one could do anything on their own. They did not need God or
anyone else.
Then the Lord went on to show me that
humility was just the opposite. Humility is coming to God, asking for His help,
knowing that one could not do things in their own strength. In other words, pride is when one makes themselves their own god.
Here is where I had to ask myself, “How
often have I thought I could do things on my own?” The answer was, “Way too
many times.” I had to confess this and repent. Thank God for His merciful forgiveness.
Recently I heard an old preacher’s joke that
told of a congregation that said, “Lord, You keep him (preacher) humble and
we will keep him poor.”
Sadly this used to be the opinion of many
churches. I do pray this is no longer the case.
Unlike many sermons I have heard, Jesus was
not poor. He knew where the fish were. He knew how to multiply little to become
more than enough. He and His disciples had enough money that they needed a
treasurer. Remember Judas? When Judas, the treasurer, left the Last Supper, the
disciples thought he was leaving to help someone. This was their norm.
So let us debunk the wrong teaching that
Jesus was poor. Also, humble as we have learned, is not “poor, pitiful me.” It
is, “I can do all things through Christ who strengths me.” (Philippians 4:13)
The great news today is that Christ is
always with us. As we need help, He is ready, willing and waiting. We only have
to ask.
I invite you to spend some time with the
Lord today thanking Him and praising Him that because of His finished work on
the cross, we have the privilege of coming to Him at anytime day or night to
seek His face and ask for His help. Amen!
Blessings on your day!
Karen
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