As Christians, we are to be humble people, where pride is cast-off far from us. Our elders we respect and understand when we are young in the faith and they are not. Surely, they have some things to teach us still, for we are ever learning in the faith. Now, in all this, we are careful not to let false doctrines and beliefs come into our lives, so we always check what we learn with the Bible. In all things, God is who gave us life and will continue to care for our needs when we trust in Him. Now, in doing this, it is important to humble ourselves to God like we do people. Then, God knows that we are ready to learn and also be led by His hand. Peter also wrote on this topic of being humble and submissive in 1 Peter, chapter 5. It reads, “likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:5-7) Go forth and do as Peter says and you will also do what God instructs us and find joy.
Peter also spoke about us being sober-minded, that we may see the dangers ahead of us and not fall victim to temptation. In this he said, “be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 5:8-11) Being sober-minded also means that we don’t give into alcohol and get drunk. For we know that all drunkards will not inherit the kingdom of God. There is grace to those people that God calls and also listens to His voice. To these people, God is able to do a work in their lives, that they may be separate from the ways of the world. In the way they dress, talk, and do things for others, instead of themselves. God gives us the strength to be like this. For this reason, we give Him glory and honor for saving us and for helping us, day in and day out.
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, my God, and my King, I bow down before You. Humbly, do I seek Your hand, that Your wisdom will pour into my life. I’ve cast off all my pride at Your feet, that You may use me for Your kingdom. With you in my life, there is no more darkness but only light. So make Your presence known to me each and every day that I am alive. As You give me breath, lead me also in Your ways. Help me to not veer to the left or right of You, but continue walking straightway with You. With You on my side, I can do all things and not give in to temptation. I am amazed that Your grace is for me, after all I have done. You are so patient and forgiving. Though my sins were great in the past, You have wiped my slate clean. Wow! I don’t deserve Your mercy and grace, but still, You love me. Thank You! Though my life is short, I will serve You, Lord. Have Your way in my life. My whole desire is to hear Your voice and do as You say. As for what is happening this week, I know a hiking trip is coming up. And even in the woods, God, I pray that I will not be shy to share the gospel with people I meet. Especially with the family I am with will I open my mouth for Your sake. I love You, God. Amen.