Empty or Full

A glass can hold both oil and water at the same time and they will not mix. There is an inverse relationship between them, totaling 100%, the more oil, the less water and vice versa. A person’s life can hold both humility and pride at the same time, with the same inverse calculation. The problem for those of us who love Jesus is it’s easier to maintain the pride portion than the humility portion.

Scripture has a lot to say

about pride and what God thinks about it. In Proverbs 6:17, there is a list of seven things God hates. At the top is “haughty [proud] eyes”. Also in Proverbs 16:5, this warning, “Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; assuredly he will not be unpunished.” And in Psalm 101:5, “No one who has a haughty look and arrogant heart will I endure.”

The other side of the coin—God’s promises—for the humble include these:

James 4:6 “…God is opposed to the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Prov. 29:23, “A man’s pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.” Matt. 23:12, Jesus speaking, “Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.”  1 Pet. 5:6, “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time.” And there are many more.

Why do I call out

this particular facet of our Christian struggle now? Two reasons. First, I know firsthand about this struggle. Second, I’m not alone. We have an enemy whispering in our ears how great we are, how much we’ve accomplished either in secular circles or ministry activities. It feeds our old nature, which is often alive and well, holed up just below the surface.

It’s a clarion call

for those in God’s family to “…be on the alert, your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Pet. 5:8) Don’t let it be you. Don’t give him a foothold in your life. Stay in the Word, prayer, and fellowship. “…resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).