| Yesterday's Bible Study |
In this verse, Paul tells us that the Lord does not choose us based on our own merit. Everything good in us is the result of the Lord moving in our lives. The goodness and love that we have for other people originate in the love that the Lord first showed us. Because of that, we cannot feel self-satisfied or boast about our calling or all that God accomplishes through us. Keeping this truth in mind helps us remain humble so we give glory to the Lord in all circumstances.
Humility is one of the most important characteristics of a Christian. It recognizes that we did not--and could never--earn our salvation, which was a gift from the Lord through Jesus. We cannot be proud of our own spiritual maturity, our biblical knowledge, or how we love and serve other people … because all of those are effects of the Lord working in us. He works in our hearts so we become more and more like Him.
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Walking in humility gives us freedom. It allows us to be unconcerned about what others think about us, our position, or our prestige. When we are not consumed with putting ourselves first and our own image, we are set free from the race of success, materialism, and greed. Instead of worrying so much about ourselves, we are able to put our focus on the Lord and what matters most to Him--other people. Humility allows us to embody Jesus on a new level so we can love other people as He did.
When we remember the grace and mercy of the Lord, we can prevent our flesh from glorying in His presence, as the verse says. So instead of acting as if the Lord is lucky to have us, we can walk in humble submission. Instead of taking pride in our walk with Him or our own spiritual maturity, we can take pride in God himself. Our focus shifts from ourselves to the Lord!
And, when that happens, our eyes are opened to the miracles that He has worked and will continue to work in our own hearts.
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