Week of June 4, 2021
“A man’s pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor.” (Proverbs 29:23, NKJV)
Pride leads to failure, and humility leads to success. If this is true, then I think we would all conclude that humility is the much better path to take in life. What are some ways to demonstrate humility in our lives?
First, we have to admit our mistakes that is not an easy chore. If we have wronged someone admitting we have wronged them will be the path to salvaging the relationship. Someone in Washington said the cause of presidential downfalls is not the scandal itself but the coverup. People are fearful of the consequences. Solomon says in Proverbs 28:13, He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.
If we are going to achieve humility, we must admit our mistakes. Also, we give credit where it is due. When Solomon dedicated the temple, he recognized the one who was most responsible. Then Solomon stood before the altar of the Lord in the presence of all the assembly of Israel, and spread out his hands toward heaven; and he said: “Lord God of Israel, there is no God in heaven above or on earth below like You, who keep Your covenant and mercy with Your servants who walk before You with all their hearts. 1Kings 8:22-23, NKJV. Ronald Regan had a plaque on his desk in the oval office that read, “There is no limit to the good a person can do if he is willing to let someone else take the credit.” No wonder he was such an effective president.
Finally, don’t brag about yourself; let others do that for you. Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; A stranger, and not your own lips. Proverbs 27:2, NKJV. At a dinner party, Jesus noticed that some started seating themselves at tables reserved for the honored guest. Jesus offered some practical advice.
When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. Luke 14:8-9, NKJV.
Don’t you know that person was humiliated when asked to move? It is better to sit at the back of the room and be invited to move up rather than the other way.
Remember our Lord’s principles. “Pride will bring you low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.”
God Bless, Pastor Rick