Monday – The Root of the Matter: Pride or Humility?

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In a Nutshell: 

Today we begin by understanding that the fundamental choice we face daily is between pride, exemplified by Lucifer, and humility, exemplified by Jesus. This choice determines our access to God’s favor.

Anchor Verse: 

James 4:6 (NIV) – “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.””

Unpacking the Word: 

Pastor Reuben started the sermon by laying a crucial foundation: the contrast between pride and humility. He uses the stark examples of Lucifer and Jesus to illustrate these opposing forces. Lucifer, once an angel of worship, fell from grace due to pride.  Jesus, the Son of God, exemplified perfect humility throughout his earthly life. This isn’t just a historical lesson; it’s a daily reality for us.  Every moment, we are presented with choices – to act from a place of ego, demanding our own way and recognition, or from a place of humility, acknowledging God as the source of all good.

Pride often whispers to us that we are self-sufficient, that our achievements are solely our own doing. It puffs us up, making us believe we are somehow better or more deserving than others. Humility, on the other hand, gently reminds us of our dependence on God. It acknowledges that every breath, every talent, every opportunity is a gift from a loving Father.  Think about your interactions today.  Are you approaching situations with a sense of entitlement, or with gratitude? Are you quick to take credit, or quick to give thanks?

The sermon clearly states that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” This isn’t a neutral stance. God actively resists pride because it separates us from Him and from others. Humility, conversely, opens the door to grace – God’s unmerited favor and empowering presence.  Choosing humility is not about self-deprecation or weakness; it’s about aligning ourselves with truth and reality – the reality that we are loved children of God who are blessed by His grace. Today, take a moment to examine the root of your actions. Are they stemming from pride or humility? The direction of your life, and the flow of God’s favor, hinges on this fundamental choice.

Pause and Reflect:

1. In what areas of your life do you tend to struggle with pride? (e.g., work, relationships, talents, spiritual gifts)
2. How does pride manifest itself in your thoughts, words, and actions?
3. What would it look like to consciously choose humility in those specific areas today?

Faith in Action:

1. Throughout your day, intentionally pause before reacting to situations. Ask yourself: “Is my response rooted in pride or humility?”
2. Find one opportunity today to verbally acknowledge someone else’s contribution or effort, shifting the focus away from yourself.
3. Write down one specific instance where you felt prideful recently. Then, rewrite the situation from a humble perspective.

A Moment With God: 

Lord, reveal to me any hidden pockets of pride in my heart. Help me to see myself as you see me – loved, capable through you, but utterly dependent on your grace.  Grant me the strength to choose humility in every situation today.

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