The mark of true greatness is humility. When I think of all the people I really admire, they usually possess a great deal of humility. While it isn’t an easy virtue to practice, it is the mark of someone surrendered to Christ.
When we watch the life of Jesus in the Bible, we see the purest example of true humility.
“He humbled himself in obedience to God
and died a criminal’s death on a cross.”
Philippians 2:8 (NLT)
Now we all know that Jesus was not a criminal, yet those around him who persecuted and scoffed at him treated him as such. Jesus could have risen up in all of the strength and power of God and put people in their place. Yet he chose humility. He didn’t fight back. He didn’t fight for influence or power. Rather, he submitted himself to the Father.
Philippians goes on…
“Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor
and gave him the name above all other names,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the father”
Philippians 2:9-11 (NLT)
Loved ones, there is no greater example of the exchange that the Lord offers us in practicing humility. When we submit our lives and circumstances to the Lord, He is good. It’s the currency of Heaven.
This is not how the world operates. Humanity at the core is very self-centric. A person navigating life outside of relationship with God will undoubtedly self-preserve. We can try on “hats” that appear like humility; yet the essence of true humility is a dying to self and having a surrendered heart to Jesus.
I’ve been focused a lot lately on what it means to fear the Lord. I think this term can feel bewildering to some because it contains the word “fear” and it might feel like God is out to get us. Ha! The opposite couldn’t be more true.
The Bible says that,“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Proverbs 9:10 (NIV)
The word “fear” in this context isn’t referring to dread or being scared. Rather it invokes awe and reverence. It places God on the throne of our hearts, in the place where we recognize His leadership over our lives and trust every outcome to Him. The exchange offered to us is divine in that when we live this way, our outcomes are blessed.
“The problem with self-promotion is that we obtain things we cannot sustain. But when we humble ourselves, God exalts us at the right time. His promotion comes with a mantle and an anointing to complete the mission.”
Kris Vallotton
Friends, it is worth it to release our lives to Him and walk humbly with Him and toward others. Let Jesus tell you who you are and watch your life amaze you.
Your Friend,
Rachel
Comentários