Introductory Thoughts
Following the victory of a battle, the victors generally divide the spoil. The soldiers triumphantly go through the enemy camp removing anything they desire. The act of dividing the spoil indicates a time of victory and intense celebration as a result of winning the battle. Yet, the Bible reveals that there is something far better than dividing the spoil with the proud: being “of an humble spirit with the lowly.” This can only pertain to those looking at life from a godly perspective. Man would naturally rather celebrate a victory with the proud than to be humbled through defeat. The context of the passage quite possibly could indicate that the lowly refers to those who have suffered the defeat; therefore, it is better to be humbled by defeat than to be proud in victory.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): When you receive a new toy, do you brag and say, "It's mine and you can't play with it?" Or do you thank the Lord for it and willingly share it with others? Which would please the Lord most? Is your toy more important than treating others with respect and dignity?
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(For everyone): What sounds better: victory or defeat? The answer seems obvious unless you look at things from a spiritual perspective. What does this truth teach us about the greatness of humility?
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The most important things in life to us are not necessarily the most important things for us. Would you say that you possess humility or are you consumed with pride? From our study, do you understand how important it is to be humble?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to show you the importance of humility.
- Ask the Lord to show you the wickedness of pride.
Song
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
