Listen:
He guides the humble in doing what is right and teaches them His way. (Psalm 25:9)
Reflect:
Marriage is refining. It brings out our best and highlights our worst. The last several months, my husband and I have been in prayer and conversation over some future life decisions. We want to do what is right and what is pleasing to God. And yet we’re still human. With differing opinions, personalities and feelings, there are moments when pride takes over.
Pride makes us defensive and inwardly focused. Humility allows us to acknowledge our sin and look to God for mercy and direction. We see that in the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector who go to the temple to pray (Luke 18: 9-14). The Pharisee, a religious man, prayed about how good he was and what he had not done wrong. While, the tax collector beat his chest in sorrow over his sin and asked God for mercy. In this parable, God reveals the importance of laying down our pride and humbling our hearts toward Him.
God loves humility. He wants to lead us in doing what is right. He desires to teach us His way and give us direction over our life. Our call to action is to humble ourselves before the Lord and then watch His promise unfold as He leads those who do. When we struggle with pride, this verse is an anchor to return to. It reminds us to set our ego aside and seek God’s wisdom with a humble heart.
Prayer of Response:
Jesus, We are sinners in need of your grace and mercy daily. We acknowledge that Your ways are not our ways and we come to you for direction. Make us humble before you and before others. We pray today for a teachable spirit, a humble heart, and a yielding to your will. Thank you for your heart of humility and for your boundless grace. Amen.
Questions to Ponder:
- How do you start your day with a humble heart and teachable spirit?
- What does it look like to approach God, and others, with humility?
—Submitted by: Trina Visscher
Trina and her husband Forrest live in Oregon with their two children. Trina is a stay-at-home mom to her son Beau (4) and daughter Lyla (2), and is involved in her church community.