Embracing Humility

“The fear of the LORD is to hate evil;

Pride and arrogance and the evil way

And the perverse mouth I hate.” (Proverbs 8:13)

A sober fear of God is a massive part of walking in simple devotion to Jesus. Jesus Himself delighted in the fear of the LORD (See Isaiah 11:1-3). In our text for today, Wisdom speaks and defines one way in which the fear of God is manifested- “to hate evil”. Further, we are told that pride and arrogance are evil in themselves.

We don’t often think of pride as being a cardinal sin, but it is. In recent years, we’ve seen pastors of large churches and leaders of large ministries lose their positions of leadership because of adultery, lack of financial integrity, or worse. But when was the last time a pastor resigned because of pride in his heart? I’m not saying that never happens; I just haven’t heard of it.

The point is- pride is evil. So much so that God even stands against those who are proud. “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) Do you want to be opposed by the LORD of hosts Himself? Great! Then just walk in pride! I would rather have Him on my side. I want His grace empowering me to be successful in that which He has called me to. I want His grace to live a righteous life, to love my family, to prosper in business, and to advance His kingdom in my city. Thus, my commitment is to humbly submit the areas of struggle in my life to His correction. I will not hide in darkness. I will not pretend to have it all together in public while struggling in private.

Is there something in your life that you have not allowed the Lord to touch? Are you trying to overcome in your own strength? Remember, God’s promise is to give you grace if you will humble yourself. Today, let’s not pretend we’re perfect. This means allowing God, and others, into the hidden places of our hearts to receive His help.

“Father, help me today to walk in humility. I confess my need for Your grace to sustain me. Lord I invite You to inhabit each and every area of my life and each moment of my day. Amen”