STAYING HUMBLE BEFORE GOD

King Saul was the first anointed king of the nation of Israel. He came from the smallest Tribe, Benjamin. The tribe was the smallest because they committed serious sins that led to the national civil war, which nearly wiped them out (Judges 20:1-21-24). God ultimately restored and elevated the humble tribe of Benjamin to be the tribe from which their first anointed king would come. When King Saul became king, he was humble before God and others. Saul said the following words when the prophet Samuel told him about God's plan in his life, "But I'm only from the tribe of Benjamin, the smallest tribe in Israel, and my family is the least important of all the families of that tribe! Why are you talking like this to me?" Despite Saul's humble beginnings, God put His Spirit on Saul and empowered him to defeat Israel's enemies. However, as he gained power and influence among his people, Israel, his heart became proud, and eventually, he disobeyed God, which led to his disqualification as the king of Israel (1 Samuel 13-15). 

One of the lessons from Saul's tragic life story is that he allowed his success and great influence on his people to overcome him, leading him to pride. He became self-centered, allowing his ego to rule in his mind and heart. When God gives us success, let us not forget that it is God who has given us this success, and this will help us remain humble. Everything that we have comes from God. Our skills, talents, possessions, influence, and opportunities came from God. When we stay humble before God, He blesses us all the more. He can continue to guide us because our hearts are humbled before Him. Jesus said, "For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted (Luke 14:11)." 

As Christians, we should remain humble as God continues to bless us. Let us not forget where all our blessings come from. Let us be thankful for God's blessings at all times. The Apostle Paul said these words about himself, "But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me—and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace (1 Corinthians 15:10)."

Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) What was the downfall of King Saul? How can I protect myself from pride? Why is it important for me to live in humility?

Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.

Prayer:

Dear Father in Heaven, please forgive me if I have been living in pride. Please help me to stay humble before you and always be thankful for all your blessings. Please protect my heart from pride and self-centeredness in everything that I do today. In your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.