humility

“And (Jesus) said: ‘I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’” – Matthew 18:2-4 (NIV)

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:6-7 (NIV)

“I can handle this.” Does that sound familiar to you? Often many of us try to fool ourselves (and those around us) that we have it all together, when, in fact, we do not. Life is tough. Health problems, work troubles, money shortfalls, child worries, the busyness of life…

What motivates us to hold our cards so close and put up a good face? Often it is pride. We don’t want to appear weak or needy. But, if we were all honest with one another, we would each and every one of us admit to a weak area – some place where things are not quite so good as we’d like to admit.

Overcoming life’s obstacles requires faith. And true faith in God requires humility.

This is the point Jesus – and Peter – are making. We need to become like little children. We need to come to God with our worries and anxieties and concerns and cares and sins and troubles and doubts… and cast them on Him. Don’t just lay them down. Cast them off! Throw them away with great aim and purpose. And let the peace of Christ fill the empty place once occupied by your burden.

Does it mean your circumstances will change immediately? Maybe. Maybe not. But our circumstances aren’t what matters. The God Who love us – who loves you – is far greater than our circumstances.

Pray. Believe. Serve. Rest.

And let me know how I can be praying for you this week.