Proud to be Humble

How do you feel when you see someone who struggles with sin?

Do you feel grateful not to be in their situation?

The notorious Pharisee of Luke 18 felt the same way. In this Devotional, we will learn to examine ourselves for signs of pride disguised as godly traits or actions. Join me as we learn how to be truly humble in Christ!

DAY 1: PROUD TO BE IN GOD'S CAMP

In Luke 18, we read about a Pharisee who was overcome with gratitude for being on God's side of the story. I am not being sarcastic, that is exactly what happened! But because we already know Jesus' reaction to the Pharisee's prayer, we dismiss his behavior without thinking twice. So today, let us look at his prayer again. "'I thank you, God, that I am not like other people - robbers, evildoers, adulterers - or even like this tax collector'" (Luke 18:11, NIV).

In his prayer, the Pharisee did not take credit for his position in God's camp, he thanked God for it. I can imagine the Pharisee observing the guilt and regret of the tax collector next to him (Luke 18:13), thinking: "I am so lucky not to be that guy today! Thank you God!" Living his life within the safety of God's commands and the church saved him from such torment. What was the issue then? Why did Jesus rebuke the Pharisee so harshly?

We find the answer many years later when Paul is in the same shoes as the Pharisee (2 Corinthians 12). Paul was on a roll. He was experiencing amazing revelations from God. He was moving in such a space of holiness that he was very far removed from the ordinary sinful lives of the people around him. I am sure Paul's heart must have been bursting to share all that God was doing in his life. But he remembered Jesus' story of the Pharisee. Even though everything he wanted to tell everybody was true, he had to be very careful.

Paul knew how people react when extraordinary things happen to other people. They give them credit. And then the one with the extraordinary gift feels proud of himself. And then you know what happens. Or in Paul's words: "If I wanted to boast, I would be no fool in doing so, because I would be telling the truth. But I won't do it, because I don't want anyone to give me credit beyond what they can see in my life or hear in my message, even though I have received such wonderful revelations from God" (2 Corinthians 12:6-7, NLT).

How do you feel when God does something amazing in your life? How do you share your excitement and new revelations with others? How much focus is on yourself when you share your testimonies?

You see, the way that we share God's great gifts with others has the potential to trap us into prideful behavior. We need to be very aware of what true humility looks like.

Over the next few days, we will explore how to share God's gifts humbly. Whether it is knowledge of God's word, wisdom, generosity, or spiritual gifts, it should always be a reflection of Love. "Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud" (1 Corinthians 13:4, NLT).

Scripture readings:

Luke 18:9-14

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

1 Corinthians 13:1-13