Tag Archives: humility

April 28
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“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11, NIV)

Humility.

Jesus tells us that we ought not exalt ourselves (e. g., seek time in the spotlight).  In other words, do not covet a status that is higher, larger, or more powerful, for personal benefit or glorification.

Our ego is fed by such things, but in the context of today’s scripture Jesus challenges us to resist the temptation of self-promotion and self-elevation so common in our society.  We should, instead, take our place with the least and the last among us.  In God’s time, truly humble individuals are always recognized with a public promotion that no one can take-back or take away.  – Luther

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April 16
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“They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband.” (Ruth 1:4-5, NIV)

It is hard to imagine a more dire situation than the one described in today’s scripture: Death, young widowhood, exile to a foreign land, and bleak economic prospects. This story of Naomi and her two daughters-in-law doesn’t end there, but it does begin in pain and uncertainty.

(There is more to this story, of course; and I encourage you to read the four short chapters that comprise the book of Ruth — which takes less time to read than many articles in the Sunday newspaper — for the rest of the story.)

Despite the dark outlook, Naomi, Ruth, Orpah, and others, persist in the practice of humility, hospitality, and honesty. Although they were not assured a positive outcome — none of us ever are — they are, nevertheless, confident of God.

We show our confidence (another word for “faith”) in our heavenly Father — as did Naomi and the others — by persisting in humility, hospitality, and honesty, particularly in hard times.  – Luther

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March 17
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“Pride leads to conflict; those who take advice are wise.” (Proverbs 13:10, NLT)

Taking advice — particularly when it differs from our preferred course of action — is difficult. Can you recall any time when you did take inconvenient advice to heart?  Do you remember how the mere act of heeding that advice saved you a heap of trouble and conflict?

Perhaps the hardest advice to swallow is “unsolicited advice.”  However, even in such cases, consider the heart of the source. Someone who has your best interests at heart will not only give you their best advice, but will personally stand with you in their counsel.

Wise up!  Don’t let your pride get in the way of a saving word.  – Luther

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