Choose the way of humility! Sounds enticing, doesn’t it? Okay, maybe not so much. Truthfully, I must admit that even though I am a dedicated follower of Christ, my knee-jerk response in many situations wouldn’t be labeled “humble” by anyone. No doubt I’ve often avoided a humble response much the same as I would a spoonful of caster oil! Fortunately I’ve managed to tuck the “idea” of humility into my spiritual briefcase along with any scriptures related to being humble, because who knows–they could come in handy when offering advice!

I suppose God knew even before He breathed life into Adam that humility wouldn’t come naturally to us. Think about Adam and Eve. Didn’t satan appeal to their pride when he said, ”God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat (the fruit), and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.” (Genesis 3:5) Satan lied and they listened, choosing to believe that obeying God would keep them from reaching their full, god-like potential. They chose self over continuing to walk humbly with their Father, and sadly, never again would they call Eden their home.

Satan’s tactics haven’t changed. Just let a preacher mention humility, and the enemy gets right to work painting dismal pictures in the congregation’s minds: There we are, unloved, unlovely and undesired. We envision the “other guys” enjoying the feast of whatever is at stake while we dejectedly hope they’ll at least toss us a crumb. Then off they go, abandoning us at the bottom of the stairs that lead to everyone else’s wonderful life! (Have I cheered you up yet? 😉) 

When are we going to stop listening to our enemy, whose idea of a good day is one in which he has killed, stolen from, or destroyed someone? When will we start believing our Heavenly Father, whose plans for us are always good? He promised, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up in honor.” (James 4:10 NLT) I want to exchange satan’s false picture of humility with the one Holy Spirit has painted throughout scripture, one where humble people are:

*those whom the Lord adorns with salvation (Psalm 149:4)

*blessed (Isaiah 66:2) 

*seen and taken note of by the Lord (Psalm 138:6) 

*guided by Him in justice and taught His way (Psalm 25:8)

*given wisdom (Proverbs 11:2) 

*honored (Proverbs 29:23)

*given riches, honor and life! (Proverbs 22:4)

Heavenly Father, it’s You I want to please with my life, even though in many situations I seem to temporarily forget that. Adam and Eve chose themselves over You. I never want to be guilty of  doing that, but I know that’s exactly what happens when I let my pride inform my choices. I’m so quick to think that I know how things should be done, that my way is the best way, that I should say what’s on my mind, or that I don’t need to apologize.  My words and actions can so easily become a neon sign blinking….”ME”, ”ME”, ”ME”! Teach me Your better way, Lord, so that I will become a truer reflection of You.