(by pastor Norman)

“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6; NKJV). The English word, to be proud, is to be pleased with our accomplishments or those of others. For instance, Jean and I give thanks and all the glory to God for having given us successful careers. However, the Greek word for proud in the verse above refers to an arrogant and over-exaggerated estimate of our achievements and merits, ignoring what Jesus said, “For without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5; NKJV). God hates this arrogant pride (Prov 8:13) and the apostle Paul exhorts us, “Not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think” (Rom 12:3; NKJV). We are warned that pride will result in our being humbled (Luke 14:11) and even facing disgrace (Prov 11:2) and destruction (Prov 16:18). However, there is good news, “He who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). God said that if we would be humble, pray, seek His face and repent, He would forgive and heal our land (2 Chron 7:14). The humble person lowers himself is humble minded and submitted to God realizing he can only succeed through Christ’s strength (Phil 4:13). We are called to, “Put on humility” (Col 3:12) and, “walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8); this brings God’s life, honour, favour, riches and wisdom (Prov 22:4, 11:2, 3:34). Jesus said He came to serve and not be served (Mark 10:45) and, “He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross” (Phil 2:8) Amen.