“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)
Here’s a true saying: “Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” That doesn’t mean being a doormat for people to walk on or being spineless with no convictions and opinions.
True humility is acknowledging God as the source of all you have, and all you need, and always remembering to give Him credit for both. The Bible says, “God formed man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life.” (Genesis 2:7)
God’s intention for mankind was to live in Paradise and enjoy His presence every day. But we disobeyed Him and decided to live by our own rules instead of His. And the result? God said, “For dust you are, and to dust you shall return.” (Genesis 3:19)
Let’s face it, on our best day we’re just dignified dirt! In fact, one estimate suggests that each of us is worth less than four dollars — maybe five with inflation. So when you die and your components return to dirt, that’s your physical value. Pretty humbling, eh? So when you drive your luxury car, remember that less than four dollars is driving it. Less than four dollars is living in the suburbs. Less than four dollars is wearing designer clothes. Less than four dollars has more money in the bank than you’re actually worth.
Paul defines humility in these words: “Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves” (Romans 12:3). Do you want to know what makes you valuable? “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27)
Prayer
Heavenly Father, my value is not in me, but in You. My worth is because of You. Help me remember that today and every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike