Why It's Hard To Be Humble

"He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted." - Luke 18:9-14

Do you have reason to be proud of your accomplishments? Education, vocation, relationships, financial achievements, even benevolence toward others. There is a difference between pride and gratefulness. Think about this ... The natural man rejects the idea of a creator God to which he or she is accountable. If we have a creator, then who we are and the good that we do with who we are must be credited to the creator. Our part is to apply who we are to everyday life circumstances. When we do what we do that finds favor and admiration from other people, they merely see us applying the capabilities that God has endowed us with. And for what purpose did He give us those capabilities and opportunities? For His glory and the good of others. Not merely for us so we might feel better about ourselves or receive the praise of men. .

The true source of our pride is fear and insecurity. If our confidence and focus is on God, then there is no room for fear and insecurity. I am always taken back to Matthew 22:37 - I am to love God with all of my heart, soul, strength and mind. That does not leave any room for self-love. Perhaps you recall a song by Mac Davis, "Oh Lord, it's hard to be humble when you are perfect in so many ways."

All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. There are none righteous no not one. Humble yourself in the sight of God and He will lift you up.

"Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full." - Matthew 6;1-2

What I am speaking to is a spiritual truth. To our need to keep a spiritual perspective. By rejecting the accolades of the world for what you do during this lifetime means that you have a true understanding of where the glory belongs. Be careful you don't rob God of His glory because you covet the praises of men.

But. if there is one thing that any of us can take credit for it would be that we said "Yes" to God.

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you? But to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." - Micah 6:8 

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory. 

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone