Introductory Thoughts
The Bible associates several qualities to the truly humble person. The book of James lists a few of these prominent traits as follows. The humble man submits to the will of God (James 4:7). Additionally, he repents of his sins (James 4:8) and mourns over his disobedience (James 4:9). He refuses to speak evil of his brother (James 4:11), but rather chooses to leave judgment to the Lord because He is the righteous Judge (James 4:12). He refuses to boast about what he is doing (James 4:13-16) because he knows that his failure to do right is a sin (James 4:17). Yet, the greatest truth concerning the humble man is not what he does or gives for God, but what God gives to him. The Bible says that God gives grace to the humble and resists the proud (1 Peter 5:5-6). Think about this profound truth. God gives a man what he needs if that man will simply remain humble.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): A friend repeatedly treats you mean. You do not have to continue to play with him, but if you talk badly about him to others, you are trying to hurt him. This behaviour displeases the Lord. Pray for your friend that God will teach him to do right.
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(For everyone): Do your actions resemble the qualities of a humble person? Do you quickly repent of your sins and mourn over them? Do you try not to boast of your abilities and efforts? Do you understand that the Lord is righteous in all His doings and knows your heart better than you know it?
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God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Often this world resists the humble while exalting those with a proud spirit. Who are you seeking to please? Would you rather have favour with the Lord or with man?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to keep you humble.
- Ask God to show you the condition of your heart.
Song
He Giveth More Grace
