Tag: Humility

May 8, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Striving for Purity of Motive

Opening Verse

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”
— Philippians 2:3 (KJV)

Introduction

God does not just look at what we do. He examines why we do it. In a world that praises self-promotion and pride, the Lord calls us to humble service, free from selfish motives.

Devotional Story

A young woman worked hard in her church’s outreach ministry. She planned events, handed out meals, and spoke about Christ. But something began to change. She noticed her joy was tied more to compliments than to Christ. The smiles of others became her fuel instead of the Spirit of God. One evening, as she walked home alone after an event, the silence pierced her heart. She realized she had been serving to be seen.

She repented, fell to her knees in her living room, and cried out, “Lord, cleanse my heart. Let me serve for Your glory, not mine.” From that moment on, she no longer chased praise. She chased Christ. And the peace she found was far greater than any applause.

What This Means

Philippians 2:3 is not a suggestion. It is a command to abandon pride. When we do anything, whether in ministry, work, or family, we must ask ourselves, “Am I doing this to lift Jesus or to lift myself?” God wants lowly hearts, not lofty egos.

The moment pride enters, the Spirit is grieved. True humility is not thinking less of yourself. It is thinking of others more. It is recognizing that every good thing in you came from God, not from your own strength.

Think About This

  • Are your motives clean before God?

  • Do you serve to glorify Him, or to be recognized?

  • When no one thanks you, do you still rejoice?

Prayer

Father, search my heart. Clean out every trace of pride and selfish ambition. Help me to serve with a pure heart, esteeming others better than myself. Let my actions reflect the humility of Christ. May everything I do be for Your glory alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.”
— Matthew 23:11 (KJV)

May 7, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Not the Only Way

Opening Verse

“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.”
— Romans 12:3 (KJV)

Introduction

There is only one Savior — Jesus Christ. You are not Him. None of us are. And yet, many people act like their opinions, their methods, or their traditions are the only way to live out faith. That prideful mindset shuts out others, stifles learning, and grieves the Spirit of God.

Devotional Story

A man believed his understanding of scripture was flawless. He avoided anyone who didn’t agree with him. In his small circle, no one challenged his views. One day, a young believer humbly asked a question he couldn’t answer. Embarrassed, he brushed it off and avoided the young man from then on.

But later that week, the man overheard the young believer gently sharing the gospel with someone in tears. The words were simple, the love was genuine, and the Spirit was present. That moment crushed the man’s pride. He realized he had built a bubble of self-importance, shutting out not only people but God’s own work through them.

What This Means

God gives grace to the humble, not to the proud. You are not the standard — Jesus is. When you shut yourself off from others, you may be shutting yourself off from what God is doing through them. True faith isn’t about being right — it’s about being righteous. That means being teachable, respectful, and always ready to learn from others whom God has also gifted and called.

Think About This

Are you willing to learn from others, even those who see things differently? Have you mistaken your personal convictions for divine authority? Are you lifting up Jesus — or just yourself?

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for the pride that makes me think I know it all. Help me to stay humble and teachable. Teach me to respect others and recognize the work You are doing in them. Let me never forget that only You are the way, the truth, and the life. I want to lift You up, not myself. Amen.

Closing Verse

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.”
— Philippians 2:3 (KJV)

April 19, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Does God Favor Certain People Over Others?

Opening Verse

“Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:”
Acts 10:34 (KJV)

Introduction

Many wonder if God shows favoritism — if He loves or blesses one person more than another. The world runs on partiality. People are often elevated because of money, beauty, power, or status. But is God like that? The answer from Scripture is clear: no. God is not moved by external appearance, reputation, or human position. He sees the heart.

Devotional Story

A teacher once had two students. One was loud, charismatic, and popular; the other was quiet, awkward, and often overlooked. The popular student turned in assignments late, yet everyone excused him. The quiet one worked diligently but was rarely praised. One day, the teacher gave both students the same difficult project. The popular student turned in a rushed, flashy presentation. The quiet one turned in something simple but deeply thought-out. The teacher gave the quiet student the highest mark and said, “I grade by effort and understanding, not popularity.”

God is that kind of teacher. He does not lift someone up because of their fame or charm. He honors those who walk humbly, obey Him, and seek Him with a true heart. He didn’t choose the mighty or the proud. He chose fishermen, tax collectors, and persecutors. Why? Because He looks for faithfulness, not fame.

What This Means

God doesn’t favor people based on race, wealth, or intelligence. He favors the obedient. He lifts the humble. He responds to faith. If you feel unseen or forgotten, know this: God sees you. He does not ignore the lowly. He draws near to the brokenhearted. Favor in God’s eyes comes not from human praise but from walking in truth and righteousness.

You don’t need a platform, popularity, or power to be used by God. You need a clean heart and surrendered will. If you give Him your all, He will honor that — even if no one else does.

Think About This

  • Are you seeking God’s favor or man’s approval?

  • Have you ever believed someone was more loved by God than you?

  • What would change if you truly believed God sees and honors your faithfulness?

Prayer

Lord, thank You that You are not a respecter of persons. Thank You that Your eyes search the earth for hearts fully committed to You. Help me not to chase the favor of men, but to walk faithfully before You. Cleanse me of envy or comparison, and teach me to rest in Your love. I want to honor You above all else. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“For the LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:”
Deuteronomy 10:17 (KJV)

April 4, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

It’s Not the Act, It’s the Intent

Opening Verse

“Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the Lord pondereth the hearts.”
— Proverbs 21:2 (KJV)

Introduction

Many people think that if their actions look good, that’s enough. But God doesn’t just look at what we do—He looks deeper. He sees why we do it. It’s not just the act that matters to God; it’s the heart behind it.

Devotional Story

There was a young woman who gave to the poor every month. She made sure to post about it online, tagging her church and using popular Scriptures as captions. Everyone thought she was generous, kind, and spiritually mature. But behind closed doors, her heart was far from God. She often mocked the very people she helped, seeing them as beneath her.

Across town, there was a man who quietly slipped envelopes of cash into struggling families’ mailboxes. He told no one. No hashtags. No photos. He even skipped church sometimes out of shame for his past. But every act of kindness came from a heart broken by his own sin and desperate to honor Christ in secret.

Which one did God approve of?

Jesus answered that very question in Matthew 6:1:

“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.”

What This Means

God doesn’t just want our hands—He wants our hearts. You can do the right thing for the wrong reason and miss the mark completely. You can preach, give, or serve, but if it’s done for attention, praise, or guilt, it doesn’t please Him. But even the smallest act, done with a heart that loves Jesus, is seen and rewarded by God.

This is urgent—because many will one day say, “Lord, didn’t we do all these things in Your name?” and Jesus will reply, “I never knew you” (Matthew 7:22-23). Why? Because their intent was never truly for Him.

Think About This

  • Are your actions for Christ or for credit?

  • If no one saw what you did, would you still do it?

  • What does God see when He looks past your deeds and into your heart?

Prayer

Lord, search my heart and show me the truth. Cleanse me from false motives. Let everything I do be for Your glory and not my own. Teach me to live with eternity in mind, not applause. I want to please You, not people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” — Jeremiah 17:9-10 (KJV)

March 7, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Pride That Leads to Destruction

Opening Verse:

“The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, whose habitation is high; that saith in his heart, Who shall bring me down to the ground?”
— Obadiah 1:3 (KJV)

Introduction:

Pride is one of the most deceptive sins. It blinds us to our own weaknesses and makes us believe we are untouchable. The book of Obadiah warns against the dangers of pride, particularly in how it led to the downfall of Edom. When we rely on ourselves instead of God, we set ourselves on a path to destruction.

Devotional Story:

A businessman had built an empire from the ground up. He was known for his sharp mind, strategic thinking, and relentless ambition. As his success grew, so did his pride. He boasted that his achievements were the result of his own intelligence and hard work. “No one can take this from me,” he often said.

One day, a close friend warned him, “Be careful not to forget who truly gives success. Pride goes before destruction.” The businessman scoffed at the idea. He had made it this far on his own—why would he need God now?

But one day, an unexpected economic crisis hit. His investments collapsed, his business partners withdrew, and his once-thriving empire crumbled. The very foundation he thought was unshakable proved weak. In his despair, he remembered his friend’s warning and fell to his knees. “Lord, I see now—I was deceived by my own pride. Forgive me,” he prayed.

Slowly, God restored him, not to his former wealth, but to a place of humility and trust in Him.

What This Means:

Edom was a strong nation, secure in its high places and natural defenses. Yet, God humbled them because of their arrogance. No matter how high we rise, we are still dependent on God. Pride deceives us into thinking we are invincible, but destruction follows those who exalt themselves. True security is found in humility before God.

Think About This:

  • Are there areas in your life where pride has crept in?
  • Do you acknowledge God in your successes, or do you take the credit for yourself?
  • How can you practice humility daily?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, keep my heart from the deception of pride. Let me always remember that You alone are my source and strength. Teach me to walk in humility and to give You glory in all things. Help me to trust in You rather than in my own abilities. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.”
— 1 Peter 5:6 (KJV)

February 17, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Reward of Humility and Fear of the Lord

Opening Verse

“By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honour, and life.”
— Proverbs 22:4 (KJV)

Introduction

The world tells us that success comes from ambition, self-promotion, and power. But God’s Word teaches the opposite. True blessings—riches, honor, and life—come not from pride, but from humility and a deep reverence for the Lord. Many seek after wealth but neglect the very things that bring lasting joy and fulfillment. Are you living with humility before God, or are you chasing after temporary rewards?

Devotional Story

A wealthy businessman stood at the peak of his career. He had everything—money, status, power. Yet, in the quiet of his soul, he felt empty. Despite all his success, peace eluded him.

One evening, he met an old friend who had once struggled in life but now radiated joy and contentment. “What changed?” the businessman asked.

The friend smiled and said, “I stopped chasing the world and started fearing the Lord. I humbled myself and gave my life to Him. That’s when I truly found riches, honor, and life.”

The businessman scoffed at first but couldn’t shake the words. He had spent his life seeking earthly riches but had no peace. That night, he knelt in prayer, humbling himself before God. For the first time, he felt a peace that money could never buy.

What This Means

God’s blessings don’t come through pride, self-reliance, or worldly ambition. They come through a heart surrendered to Him in humility and reverence. When we acknowledge that all we have comes from Him and live to please Him rather than the world, He grants us true riches—peace, contentment, and eternal rewards.

Think About This

  • Are you chasing after the world’s definition of success or God’s?
  • Do you fear the Lord and acknowledge Him in all your ways?
  • Are you willing to humble yourself before Him and trust in His provision?

Prayer

Lord, I humble myself before You today. Teach me to fear You and walk in Your ways. Let me not chase after temporary riches but seek the true blessings that come from knowing You. Grant me a heart that honors You in all things. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.”
— James 4:10 (KJV)

February 4, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Riding Forth in Truth and Righteousness

Opening Verse

“And in thy majesty ride prosperously because of truth and meekness and righteousness; and thy right hand shall teach thee terrible things.” – Psalm 45:4 (KJV)

Introduction

This verse speaks of a mighty King riding forth in victory, guided by truth, humility, and righteousness. It is a prophetic image of Christ, the ultimate King who reigns with justice. As believers, we are called to follow His example, standing for truth and walking in righteousness.

Devotional Story

Daniel was a man who refused to compromise on truth. As a businessman, he faced constant pressure to cut corners, exaggerate profits, and deceive clients to stay competitive.

One day, his company was offered a massive contract—one that could change everything. But there was a catch: the deal required him to sign off on false reports. His colleagues urged him, “Everyone does it. If you don’t, you’ll lose the contract.”

Daniel wrestled with the decision but ultimately chose integrity. “I serve a King who reigns in truth and righteousness. I will not trade my soul for wealth,” he said.

Though he lost the deal, something unexpected happened. A few months later, another company approached him, saying, “We heard about your honesty. We want to work with people we can trust.”

Daniel’s commitment to truth led to greater blessings than he ever expected.

What This Means

Psalm 45:4 reminds us that true prosperity comes when we stand for righteousness. Jesus, our King, does not advance through deception or force, but through truth, humility, and justice. When we follow Him, we may face loss or opposition in the world, but God’s favor will sustain us.

When we uphold truth, God fights for us. When we walk in righteousness, He leads us to greater victories.

Think About This

  • Are you willing to stand for truth, even when it costs you?
  • Do your decisions reflect righteousness and humility?
  • How can you trust God to bless you when you choose integrity?

Prayer

Lord, You are the King of truth, righteousness, and humility. Help me to walk in Your ways, to stand firm in honesty, and to trust that Your justice will prevail. Give me the courage to honor You in all I do, knowing that true victory comes from walking in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” – Proverbs 11:3 (KJV)

January 20, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Fall of the Wicked: A Call to Reflect

Opening Verse

“The horseman lifteth up both the bright sword and the glittering spear: and there is a multitude of slain, and a great number of carcasses; and there is none end of their corpses; they stumble upon their corpses.” – Nahum 3:3

Introduction

Nahum 3:3 paints a vivid picture of devastation, serving as a warning about the consequences of unchecked wickedness. It is a sobering reminder that God is just, and His judgment comes upon those who persist in rebellion against Him. This verse calls us to reflect on the justice of God and the importance of repentance.

Devotional Story

A powerful nation once stood proud, its leaders boasting of their wealth and might. They trusted in their armies and alliances, ignoring the cries of the oppressed. Over time, corruption and violence consumed the land. Despite many warnings from prophets and signs from God, they refused to turn from their ways.

One day, their enemies came like a flood, sweeping away their power and leaving a trail of destruction. The devastation echoed Nahum’s prophecy—a fall so great that even passersby were struck by the consequences of their pride and sin. Yet, for those who witnessed this judgment, it became a stark reminder to walk humbly before God and align with His righteousness.

What This Means

Nahum 3:3 is a warning against pride, violence, and rebellion against God. It shows the severity of judgment that comes when individuals or nations persist in sin. This verse challenges us to examine our hearts, turn from sin, and align ourselves with God’s will. His justice is certain, but so is His mercy for those who repent.

Think About This

  • Are there areas in your life where pride or rebellion is keeping you from God?
  • How does the justice of God inspire you to live a life of righteousness and humility?
  • Reflect on the fact that God gives warnings out of love, calling us to turn back to Him before judgment comes.

Prayer

Righteous and merciful God, Your Word reminds us of the seriousness of sin and the certainty of Your justice. Help me to walk humbly before You, turning away from pride and rebellion. May I always respond to Your warnings with repentance and seek Your mercy through Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.” – Nahum 1:3

January 14, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

Maintaining Your Flock

Opening Verse

“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” – Acts 20:28

Introduction

The responsibility of caring for others, whether as a leader, parent, or mentor, is a sacred task. God has entrusted us with His flock—those who rely on our guidance, love, and example. How we tend to them reflects our understanding of His divine care.

Devotional Story

A man named Peter owned a small farm with a dozen sheep. Every day, he would rise early to feed them, clean their pen, and ensure they had fresh water. Over time, Peter became complacent. “They’ll be fine for a day or two,” he thought, skipping his morning routine. Days turned into weeks, and soon the sheep became weak and restless.

One day, Peter discovered a small lamb missing. Frantically, he searched high and low, finally finding the lamb stuck in a thorn bush, trembling and injured. As Peter gently freed the lamb, he realized his neglect had almost cost the life of his flock.

Peter’s heart was pierced with guilt, but also with gratitude. He vowed never to let complacency steal his vigilance again. He remembered the words of Jesus: “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17). From then on, Peter tended his flock with renewed dedication, seeing his role as a reflection of God’s care for His people.

What This Means

God calls us to be shepherds in our spheres of influence, whether in our families, churches, or communities. Neglecting this responsibility can lead to harm, not only to others but also to our relationship with God. Vigilance, humility, and consistency in care are marks of a faithful shepherd.

Think About This

  • Are there areas in your life where you’ve become complacent in caring for others?
  • How can you reflect God’s love in the way you guide, support, and protect those entrusted to you?

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for entrusting me with the responsibility of caring for others. Help me to be a faithful shepherd, always vigilant and loving. Give me the wisdom to lead by Your example and the strength to care for Your flock with the same devotion You show us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind.” – 1 Peter 5:2

December 18, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

Gather Yourselves Together

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Opening Verse:

“Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired;”
– Zephaniah 2:1 (KJV)

Introduction:

The call in Zephaniah 2:1 is both urgent and touching. It is an appeal for repentance and unity, directed at a people who have strayed far from God. As judgment looms, the prophet implores the nation to turn back to God together, as one body, before it is too late.

Devotional Story:

In a small village, a severe storm was forecasted, and the villagers were instructed to gather in a safe haven. Some ignored the warnings, convinced that their homes could withstand the storm. Others thought their individual preparations were enough. Only a handful heeded the call, gathering in the designated shelter.

When the storm came, its fury was worse than anyone anticipated. Homes were destroyed, but those who had gathered together in the safe place were spared. The storm became a vivid metaphor for their spiritual state. They realized that unity and obedience were critical for survival, both physically and spiritually.

Likewise, Zephaniah’s plea reminds us that repentance is not just an individual call—it is a collective one. God desires His people to come together in humility and seek His mercy.

What This Means:

The time for repentance is now. Just as the people of Judah were called to unite in seeking God, we too are urged to turn away from sin as a community. Unity in repentance strengthens our resolve and amplifies our prayers before God.

Think About This:

  • How can you encourage repentance and unity in your family, church, or community?
  • Are you procrastinating on making things right with God?
  • Consider Hebrews 10:25: “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Prayer:

Lord, we hear Your call to gather together in repentance and humility. Forgive us for the times we have ignored Your warnings. Help us to unite as Your people, seeking Your face and walking in obedience to Your Word. Let us encourage one another to stand firm in faith. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
– 2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV)