20-Oct-14

Do you think the Scriptures have no meaning? They say that God is passionate that the spirit he has placed within us should be faithful to him. And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”  So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  James 4:5-7How often we receive a comment such as I did when I posted the scripture from James.  “Really?”  Then, “Sometimes I wonder… the Proud seem to control nearly everything!”Just the things of the world, can they control.  For the things that are of eternal value, only God controls. We are drawn in through avenues of pride and competition to draw the lines that we abide by in this world.  Humility as Dallas Willard sees it, “The humility that cringes in order that reproof may be escaped or favor obtained is as unchristian as it is profoundly immoral.”  He says that humility is Acceptance, Sustenance, Significance and Achievement. Pride is the reverse order.Humility is choosing God, accepting Him and what He teaches.  This is the first step. His leading provides a proper path to keep his covenant and obey his demands.  He leads with unfailing love and faithfulness.Life itself has many twists and turns and surprises.  Life with The Lord is a sure thing.  It is the only sure thing in this life.  Never pretend who you are, never presume and never push ahead of God. (Willard)Proverbs is a treasure trove of the blessings of humility.  Proverbs – 21:4; 21:24; 26:12;30: 12-13; 27:1-2; 30:32; 16:18-19:16:5; 11:2.Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.  Proverbs 11:2Fear of the Lord teaches wisdom; humility precedes honor. Proverbs 15:33Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor.  Proverbs 29:33The Lord is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way. The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands. Psalm 25:8-10