There are various definitions for the word humble. The most powerful to me would have to be – to lower in pride; make modest. That definition speaks powerful truth to me.
The word humble is in the Bible over twenty times. Moses was humbled. Solomon was humbled. David was humbled. Jacob was humbled and Joseph was certainly humbled. What about Job? I would have to say Yes!
Over the past three weeks, I have been humbled myself. I’ve been knocked down a notch or two off the pride pole. And let me say, it wasn’t the softest fall.
On August 25, God took me for a ride on the humble train. After an intervention from four of the dearest people in the world, I pulled into the driveway of the Table Rock Freedom Center. Why an intervention? And what is the Table Rock Freedom Center?
In a matter of a month I had stopped sleeping, stopped feeling and stopped trusting in God, myself and others. After a four day drinking binge, God stepped in. One of my pastors and three great friends showed up at my doorstep to offer me help. Not just any help, but help from Jesus.
Table Rock Freedom Center (TRFC) is a discipleship program for women. It offers help to hurting women with many different issues. It offers that help through the love of Jesus Christ.
So, what does this have to do with me being humbled? ALOT!
I lead a small group on Tuesday nights. One of the employees of TRFC was part of my group. I went from being a leader to being led by her.
Humbling? Yes. The week before I came to TRFC, I got a thank you note in the mail from the girls at the center thanking me for the microwave I donated. Now I warm my food in that microwave. Humbling? You better believe it!
I spent my birthday with an apron around my waist serving coffee and food to a large group of strangers at a wedding. Or so I thought they were all strangers. I got to one of my assigned tables only to serve four people I attend church with. Humbling? To say the least.
He gives grace to the humble. James 4:10 says “humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up.” We are reminded in 1 Peter 5 that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
How does one become proud? I can’t speak for everyone, but I can speak for me. I became proud when I stopped giving control to God. I feared Him. I turned away for one second and my pride reared its ugly head. It only takes a second!
I am thanking God that He is a God of love, forgiveness, and kindness. I am grateful that He is a God of second chances beyond a number we can count to.
1 Peter 5:6 reminds us to “humble ourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” In due time!
Toss your pride aside, humbling yourself before the Lord. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.