Careful Approach

Careful Approach

Genesis 44: ¹⁸ Then Judah came near to him and said: “O my lord, please let your servant speak a word in my lord’s hearing, and do not let your anger burn against your servant; for you are even like Pharaoh. ¹⁹ My lord asked his servants, saying, ‘Have you a father or a brother?’ ²⁰ And we said to my lord, ‘We have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, who is young; his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother’s children, and his father loves him.’ ²¹ Then you said to your servants, ‘Bring him down to me, that I may set my eyes on him.’ ²² And we said to my lord, ‘The lad cannot leave his father, for if he should leave his father, his father would die.’ ²³ But you said to your servants, ‘Unless your youngest brother comes down with you, you shall see my face no more.’

 

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Reluctantly, Israel allowed Benjamin to go to Egypt with his brothers to fulfil the terms of Joseph. Judah said he would be responsible for Benjamin and would return with him. But Joseph had his silver cup hidden in Benjamin’s sack. Judah had to respond to the difficult situation.

 

My Observations:

• Judah recognized Joseph’s position and acknowledged his role.
• Judah chose his words carefully when recapping Joseph’s request of them to bring Benjamin to Egypt.
• Judah mentioned that he and his brothers are servants so Joseph would not get placed on guard.

 

Tense situations need a careful approach that may include humbling yourself. Judah saw a situation that could not be won by blaming Joseph or by not admitting to what happened. Even though the situation was manufactured, Judah recapped the situation in a way that would possibly help Joseph hear his plea.

 

Judah was humble, thoughtful and very cautious with his words. This was a dire situation that required him to grow tremendously. He had to speak up for his brother and show respect to Joseph. GOD saw this exchange of words and was changing everyone.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Judah’s careful approach?
• What things are you trying to get that you are possibly blaming others versus adjusting your approach?
• Are there some ways to your approach that could use some humble adjustments that need courage from GOD?

Apron of Humility

Apron of Humility

1 Peter 5: ⁵ In the same way you younger people must submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you must put on the apron of humility, to serve one another; for the scripture says, “God resists the proud, but shows favor to the humble.” ⁶ Humble yourselves, then, under God's mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. ⁷ Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.

 

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“You are pretty good at this” were the words I loved to hear. I became more confident and took on more and more challenges. Soon I was “very good” in my own mind and wanted to make some demands or even leave for something better. After applying outside and not getting the position I had to tone down my demands.

 

• I had become demanding.
• I had become a bit arrogant.
• I had forgotten that I knew nothing when I first started out.

 

Peter turns to new believers to provide advice to them. They may have desired a higher position within serving, so he suggests taking a humble approach. He implied having patience by saying “HE will lift you up in HIS own good time.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD resists my pride, but shows me favor when I humble myself.
• GOD changes my heart when I practice serving others.
• GOD raises me up in HIS time, not mine.

 

Demanding that GOD “make me a leader right here and now” could come from a wrong heart. I mean, I may want to be a leader so “I” can take on the challenges I see fit. When I run into issues, I can simply call on GOD to beat up my enemies and fix all my problems. Unfortunately, HE doesn’t seem to work that way.

 

HE sees my heart and if it is full of pride, resists my efforts. But when I humble myself and ask HIM, “Is this wat YOU want?”, HE gets excited. HE then tells me to “leave all my worries with HIM” because HE cares for me. I am glad GOD takes care of me and raises me up in HIS time.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer emphasize serving one another?
• Have you ever thought you would do a better job than your leaders?
• Will you examine yourself to see if there are any opportunities to wear the “apron of humility” by following those put in leadership, whether you agree with HIS leadership appointment or not?

Review the Faith Side

 

Review the Faith Side

Romans 12: ³ And because of God's gracious gift to me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you should. Instead, be modest in your thinking, and judge yourself according to the amount of faith that God has given you.

 

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After taking the leadership class, I started behaving as prescribed. I was promoted five times and felt pretty good about “my” abilities. I was proud of “my” accomplishments and offered to help others with some of “my” wisdom.

 

• There have been times when I trusted “my” abilities.
• There have been times when I believed in “my” accomplishments.
• There have been times when I thought “I” did things with “my” power, skills and talents.

 

Paul warns everyone not to think more highly of themselves. This is contrary to the world saying “believe in yourself.” He immediately gives a solution. Look at the faith side of your being.

 

• GOD wants me to know that my skills and talents come from HIM.
• GOD wants me to understand that I was placed in every position by HIM and HIM alone.
• GOD wants me to look introspectively so I can give HIM all praise versus thinking I did anything.

 

Looking back on my life, I can see things don’t add up. I mean, my pitiful background should not add up to where I was brought. There was nothing I said or did that got me to where I have been. I can say “Only GOD brought me here.”

 

Reviewing my faith, I see a deficit. Times of worry led to times of sin which led to times of worry. BUT GOD enabled me to take what little faith I had and share it with others. Like a piece of bread HE has broken, it miraculously grows into another piece of bread in someone else. I now understand that it is not me, but HE who lives in me that causes me to have abundant life.

 

• Are you looking at “your” gifts and talents as “yours?”
• Do you look down on someone else’s decisions based on “your” knowledge?
• Will you stop thinking more highly of yourself and allow GOD to open your eyes to HIS faithfulness, so you can place your dependence on HIM today?

Life’s Elevator

Matthew 23: ⁵ “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; ⁶ they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; ⁷ they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.

⁸ “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. ⁹ And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. ¹⁰ Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah. ¹¹ The greatest among you will be your servant. ¹² For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

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“Making it” was top of mind. I tried not to step on people, but if a person got in my way, they were in trouble. I did get the title and it felt great to have the “respect.”

• Seeking places of honor can sometimes make me blind.
• Seeking to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces can sometimes puff up my head.
• Seeking a title or a position of status can sometimes lead me to think I am better than I am.

JESUS makes it clear that HE is the only instructor and the FATHER is the only father. Anyone who seeks to have the spotlight on themselves in the church will be knocked down.

• GOD wants me to humble myself so HE will not have to.
• GOD wants me to humble myself so HE can use me HIS way.
• GOD wants me to humble myself so HE can exalt me.

When I am in a humble position I celebrate more. I mean when GOD raises me up, even a little, I am thankful and I cheer. On the other hand, when I seek a title that I feel I “deserve” and do not get it, I pout and life is quite miserable. GOD wants me to be a servant no matter what title or position HE gives me. Serving others as HE served me is the highest honor!

• Are you trying to get a title?
• Do you feel you “deserve” better in life?
• Can you seek to serve rather trying to exalt yourself?

Ask for Restoration

Psalm 80: ³ Restore us, O God;
    make your face shine on us,
    that we may be saved.

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“My ideas are better than his” I thought to myself smugly. I locked my desk and firmly grasped my planner (yes people used pen and paper once upon a time). As I polled the department, I could see that I was a shoe in for the next spot. My rival didn’t have a chance so I threw my feet on the boss’s desk, figuratively of course, and acted like I had the job. He gave the job to my rival and I had to “eat crow” for a long, long time.

• It’s not easy to ask for forgiveness especially when I think “I am right.”
• It’s not easy to ask for restoration especially when I have acted in an arrogant fashion.
• It’s not easy to ask for mercy when I clearly do not deserve mercy.

Swallowing pride is a very difficult thing to do for me, but I find it necessary in order to move ahead. I think the reason it is so difficult to swallow pride is because it puts me in a very humble position. BUT GOD wants me to be in that position.

• GOD says to me “Do not think more highly of yourself” so I can remain humble and even keel.
• GOD says to me “Ask and you shall receive” so asking for restoration will be given to me in abundance.
• GOD says to me “Acknowledge GOD” and “Believe in THE SON” and “Confess my wrongs” so I can see and respect HIS authority to say “yes” or “no” to my request for mercy.

I have heard people tell me to “Go to GOD and tell HIM what you want.” That sounds fine, but I believe HE wants me to humble myself and ask HIM for mercy that I should not expect. Mercy is not mercy if I can demand it. GOD wants me to ask for restoration without expecting it. HE is not punishing me rather opening my eyes to HIS wonderful plan.

HIS own Son asked “FATHER, if I don’t have to drink this cup (meaning being blamed for every human’s sin) then let it be so, but not MY will but YOURS.” The plan for JESUS was ultra-difficult, one that no father would want to see for their child. BUT GOD went ahead with the plan and what a victorious plan it was! My request for restoration may not happen in my way nor in my time, BUT GOD has a wonderful plan for me!

• Are you demanding restoration?
• Do you think you deserve to be restored?
• Can you humble yourself and ask GOD for restoration and not expect it?
• Will you follow GOD if HE does not restore you to the place you expect?

I Don’t Want Justice

Esther 7: ⁸ Just as the king returned from the palace garden to the banquet hall, Haman was falling on the couch where Esther was reclining.

The king exclaimed, “Will he even molest the queen while she is with me in the house?”

As soon as the word left the king’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face. ⁹ Then Harbona, one of the eunuchs attending the king, said, “A pole reaching to a height of fifty cubits stands by Haman’s house. He had it set up for Mordecai, who spoke up to help the king.”

The king said, “Impale him on it!” ¹⁰ So they impaled Haman on the pole he had set up for Mordecai. Then the king’s fury subsided.

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Bragging was an art in the position I was in. It was concealed by the words “self-promotion” mixed in with a hint of “praising my team.” I wasn’t always a master at it though. One day I blurted out “I” worked hard and “I accomplished whatever. I did this because I was tired of my thieving boss stealing credit for ideas he had no clue about.  I was pulled aside and told “don’t ever do that again. “What” I said innocently. “Don’t be a braggart.” I was labeled a trouble maker for a while until I learned the right bragging mix.

• Spotlight seemed like the place I wanted to be.
• Headline seemed like the words I wanted to hear.
• Top spot seemed like the place I deserved.

Haman was a braggart who would do anything to gain power. He ordered to have GOD’s people murdered, simply because he didn’t like them or how they were handling things. He would then self-promote about his wealth and title. Little did he know his demise was around the corner. He received GOD’s justice. I felt the same way when I was looked at as the troublemaker. What was I to do?

• GOD says “Do not think more highly of yourself.”
• GOD says “Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth.”
• GOD says “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

True humility is what GOD is looking for, not the fake stuff I sprinkle here and there when I can tally how humble I have been when I rant to GOD in a tantrum. GOD is looking for the times when I have served and no one knows about what I have done but HIM and me. Service cannot wipe away sin rather it is a celebration of not receiving GOD’s justice.

• Are you bragging about something?
• Are you mad at someone because you are doing more of the work or you are “better” than them?
• Are you yelling at GOD and telling HIM how humble you have lived?
• Can you leave the humble judging to HIM?

Fasting Prayer Belief

Ezra 8: ²¹ There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions. ²² I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him.” ²³ So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer.

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Upon reading this I could not think of an example because the message was too powerful. There were too many elements that caught my eye.

Ezra declared a fast to humble the group.

            What I hear is I need to fast every now and then to see just how much I need GOD.

Ezra asked GOD for a safe journey, not only for himself but everyone who traveled with him.

            What I hear is I need to ask GOD for HIS protection of all those HE sends to me.

Ezra was ashamed to ask the king to protect them because of their belief in GOD’s deliverance.

            What I hear is belief takes faith and the acceptance of trouble or protection from GOD.

Ezra did what he said by fasting and praying and GOD answered their prayer.

            What I hear is believe and move forward because GOD is listening.

This is an amazing piece of history because GOD delivered a weak broken band of people, who were carrying valuable items, from thieves and enemies who could care less about them.  I imagine they didn’t sleep very well during this three day journey. I imagine they felt frightened yet driven to complete the task at hand.

Depending on GOD every step of the way must have felt pretty scary BUT GOD was faithful and protected them, not because they were sinless, but because HE is GOD.

• Are you about to go through a trial?
• Do you feel you are holding fast to your beliefs?
• Have you taken time to humble yourself by fasting and praying?
• Will you take the time to ask GOD for HIS protection of you, the people around you and your stuff?

Humble Is Great Medicine

1 Chronicles 12: ¹² Because Rehoboam humbled himself, the Lord’s anger turned from him, and he was not totally destroyed. Indeed, there was some good in Judah.

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Desiring a promotion, I observed how “those on the move” would talk. They would take credit for other folks work and brag about themselves. I thought, “Let me try that.” “I” did this and “I” did that was added to my speech. I wish I could remember who said this to me but someone looked at me disappointed and said “I thought you were different.”

• When I am insecure I point to myself to get praise.
• When I want status I point to myself to get noticed.
• When I desire accolades I ask people to tell me how great I’m doing to grow my ego.

One problem with pointing at me is it takes the eyes off of GOD. Many people begin looking at me and even marveling at my title, status and stuff, meanwhile they are distracted from who really is providing the blessings.

• GOD wants me to humble myself in order to point people to HIM.
• GOD wants me to lower how I think of myself in a healthy way.
• GOD wants me to consider HIS strength in all my plans so that I can never brag or boast.

GOD doesn’t want me to take credit for any accomplishment I have achieved. In fact I am truly supposed to give HIM praise for everything I have. Humbling myself also means I do not “deserve” any blessing I get. I don’t deserve great service but should be thankful when I get it.

Humbleness adds a level of gratitude that enables GOD’s blessings to flow.

• Are you demanding?
• Do you think you “deserve” to be treated better?
• Can you humble yourself and open your eyes to the blessings GOD is pouring out on you already?

In memory of Willie Edwards

Humble return to the top

2 Samuel 19: ¹⁴ He won over the hearts of the men of Judah so that they were all of one mind. They sent word to the king, “Return, you and all your men.” ¹⁵ Then the king returned and went as far as the Jordan.

Now the men of Judah had come to Gilgal to go out and meet the king and bring him across the Jordan. ¹⁶ Shimei son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim, hurried down with the men of Judah to meet King David. 

¹⁸ They crossed at the ford to take the king’s household over and to do whatever he wished.

When Shimei son of Gera crossed the Jordan, he fell prostrate before the king ¹⁹ and said to him, “May my lord not hold me guilty. Do not remember how your servant did wrong on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. ²⁰ For I your servant know that I have sinned, but today I have come here as the first from the tribes of Joseph to come down and meet my lord the king.”

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“You have full autonomy” is what they said to me when I was appointed head of a division. “You mean I can do what I please?” I thought to myself. I became super creative and non-apologetic for developing things without the parent departments’ blessing. In fact I may have said some choice words to a few people who got in my way.

A couple of years later the parent department reined us back in. Those who I said “Get out of my face,” where now in my face and in power. I had to eat my words.

• Shimei cursed as David fell which reminds me of my noisy rise in the past.
• Shimei gloated as David fell which reminds me of my thinking “No one can touch me.”
• Shimei threw rocks at David which reminds me of my words as I rose to the top.

When the king returned, Shimei remembered how he mistreated David. I too remember the return to the department. It was an extremely humbling experience. I was told to lay low for about a year in order to repair the negative perception of me. It took five.

• GOD says to me “You shall have no other gods before ME” which lets me know to exalt HIM and not myself.
• GOD says to me “Fear ME, not humans” which makes me give HIM credit for my rise.
• GOD says to me “Do not boast” which means my rise must be humble and not noisy.

It is GOD who raises me up and it is HIM who deserves praise no matter where HE has me.

• Are you cursing someone?
• Do you think your poisonous words will help your rise?
• Can you turn your poison into praise for what GOD is doing?
• Will you add the spirit of appreciation to your thoughts today?

Speak up humbly

Genesis 44: ¹⁴ Joseph was still in the house when Judah and his brothers came in, and they threw themselves to the ground before him. ¹⁵ Joseph said to them, “What is this you have done? Don’t you know that a man like me can find things out by divination?”

¹⁶ “What can we say to my lord?” Judah replied. “What can we say? How can we prove our innocence? God has uncovered your servants’ guilt. We are now my lord’s slaves—we ourselves and the one who was found to have the cup.”

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After another friend of mine was released I figured something had to be done.  I scheduled a meeting with the head of the very large department to give him a piece of my mind.  We sat and discussed what was going on.  He seemed cordial listening to my rants.

I later spoke to someone about my approach. They insisted that I had made a terrible mistake and I should do damage control. I had made an enemy because my approach was abrasive.

• Sometimes when I think I’m right I speak up loudly.
• Sometimes when I speak up I forget who I am talking to.
• Sometimes when I forget who I’m talking to I may use words of rage.

Depending on who I am speaking with, common conversation could be words of condemnation. Information has to be worded carefully to convey the right message to be heard rather than repulsed.

Judah did not recognize his brother Joseph but knew he was a man of great stature. Joseph could have Judah thrown in jail or killed instantly so Judah spoke with humble words. He thought about his approach and didn’t blurt out what was on the top of his head.

• GOD wants me to consult HIM before I address people.
• GOD wants me to ask HIM for the message before I respond.
• GOD wants me to humbly deliver messages rather than adding my poison.

Actually I should speak to everyone with tact. Building people up should be top of mind. My humble tongue helps the situation.

• Do you speak to people abrasively?
• Do you have harsh words for people?
• Do you feel people need to hear you or should you humbly request to be heard?
• Can you ask GOD for your words before you speak them?

I’m the most humble person I know

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1 Peter 5: ⁶ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. ⁷ Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

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As the speaker stammered over their words I thought to myself, “I can present better than that person, why am I not on stage?” I mean from the unscientific poll I took, all the people around me believe I am the better speaker and quite honestly I “deserve” to be in that spot. I met with my boss and got this response, “you’re not ready.”

“Hmph! Not ready!? They don’t know how “excellent I am!”

• When I am proud I am not pleasing GOD.
• When I think more highly of myself I am not pleasing GOD.
• When I believe I “deserve” more than what I am getting I am not pleasing GOD.

Sometimes my desires get in the way of hearing GOD. I mean I want my way so bad that I close my ears to HIM and head down my own path. When I run into trouble on my path then I turn to GOD or possibly blame HIM for my situation. Since GOD despises self-made pride, what am I to do? Should I lack confidence? Should I not speak up? GOD has another way.

• GOD wants me to give HIM credit for every idea and plan.
• GOD wants me to ask HIM what HE wants me to do with every idea and plan.
• GOD wants me to be able to accept HIM changing or stopping the idea or plan.

For a goal oriented person like myself, “failure is not an option.” I will make sure “this” thing works but it usually causes me great anxiety in the process. GOD wants me to let HIM take care of all the ideas and plans and know HE cares for me so I can let go of the outcome and pay more attention to the process HE is taking me through to grow me.

• Has your confidence turned into arrogance?
• Do you believe that if you are not there things would fall apart?
• Are you anxious about “failure” just because you said something should succeed and GOD may want it to fail?
• Can you let go of the outcome of “that” idea or plan and let GOD decide on its success?

Aw do I have to do that LORD?

Philippians 2: ¹⁴ Do everything without grumbling or arguing, ¹⁵ so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky

¹⁶ as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

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My parents told me to do the dishes. “Aw man” I thought to myself. I wanted to watch TV. My supervisor seemed to give me busy work. “Aw man” I thought to myself. I wanted to hide and possibly get a nap in at work. In my career stage my boss made me take notes in a meeting. “Aw man” now they want me to act like an admin instead of sitting at the table. Can’t I do what I want?

• When I am blind I grumble at tasks handed to me.
• When I am immature I fuss and fight to get out of doing things.
• When I think too highly of myself I get upset at doing tasks I feel are beneath me.

Wow! GOD wants me to do “everything” without grumbling or arguing?! That seems to be a pretty tall order.  I mean what if the person who is barking out orders to me is a jerk? GOD says look at things a little differently.

• GOD doesn’t want me looking at the task rather look at the person as HE does.
• GOD doesn’t want me to view myself higher than the task rather be an example to others.
• GOD doesn’t want me to fuss and fight with people rather HE wants HIS light to shine through me when I humble myself.

It’s not the task that is important it’s the “purpose” of the task. Sometimes GOD raises me up to heights I never would have imagined and sometimes HE makes me lower than the lowest but the purpose is still the same. GOD wants HIS SON to be recognized and worshipped.

Our generation is “warped and crooked” and it is difficult to find a person who seems to carry a smile during difficult times. GOD wants me to be alright with the mundane menial tasks that no one wants to do. HIS light will shine in all of my grumble-less efforts.

• Are you grumbling over what you are doing?
• Do you feel tired of doing “that” thing again?
• Are you doing something for someone who doesn’t deserve your talents?
• Can you do your tasks for GOD instead of doing them for people today?

Who is worthy of my presence?

Ephesians 4: ² Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; ⁵ one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

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My tolerance for nonsense started shrinking when I saw people pouting over who won an award in our department. On one side the lack of congratulations disgusted me and on the other the choice of a buddy to receive the award made me ill. “Just wait until I become the boss, I am going to fire all these people” I thought to myself.

• When I have rage I handle people harshly.
• When I want something my anxiety makes me impatient towards others.
• When I feel I know more than others I judge them and usually cause dissension.

I can usually tell when I am not acting like GOD wants me to. Major groups of people start falling off my radar and my circle shrinks more and more. After a while I am only touching who “I” consider worthy of my presence. Usually I can justify my actions because “they” are acting ugly and I am not, right? Wrong!

• GOD wants me to be completely humble and gentle towards people, even those who are harsh to me.
• GOD wants me to be patient with people especially those who I mistake for slow and weak.
• GOD wants me to bear with others in love in hopes that they will see the love GOD has for me.

There is one LORD, one faith, one baptism, one GOD and FATHER of all and HE wants me to act in unity with all HE sends to me. When I judge too harshly or use my blunt, crass approach I notice HE stops sending people my way.  Yes the Bible says correct people but it says do it “in love.”

I must put the person over the sin they are doing. In other words I have to make every effort to see “each” person as GOD sees them.

• Are you better than “those” people?
• Are “they” not following GOD like you are following HIM?
• Are you judging others by what they are doing?
• Have you examined yourself and judged yourself by your own measure?

How can I serve you?

Luke 22: ²⁴ A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. ²⁵ Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. ²⁶ But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.

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Lack of confidence has not been an issue with me in the past. “I am the most humble person I know.” In fact “I am the best at not only being humble, but I’m the best at not bragging.” Hopefully you caught the joke in that statement.

When I stopped doing certain sins I was humble, or at least I thought I was, but something happened when my zeal for others to stop their sins became more important than the person. I confidently approached people about believing in CHRIST but made it seem like they had to be perfect before GOD would help them. How naive.

• When I judge others I am not serving them.
• Even if I’m on a “serving” committee my heart may not be serving.
• When I’m so wrapped up in telling GOD to fix my problems I can’t seem to serve.
• Even if GOD brings me out of the situation I forget my promises to HIM and go back to my sins.

False humility can creep in quickly when I try my best to stop sinning and I look at what others are doing.  Yes the Bible does say to correct each other in love and to correct those who sin against me. But the GOD also says be very humble and careful about my approach otherwise I “will” fall into the same sin.

My goal should not be to receive awards from humans for what I’ve done to please GOD. I should do the things GOD tells me to do without the need for a thank you or a notice of recognition.

• My service to others is recorded by GOD.
• Every act of kindness I perform should be done without bragging so the benefactor will focus on GOD, not me.
• Even if I’m the “boss” I need to serve my employees and those who support my efforts.

Serving is becoming a lost art. “WIFM” is what’s in it for me? GOD’s answer to WIFM is “your eternal salvation along with heavenly treasures for humble serving is in it for you.” I have to remember my greatness is only because of GOD’s greatness.

• Do you think you are in control of your life?
• Are you upset at GOD’s plan for your life?
• Can you recognize the need to be humble while serving others?

Does a title give me respect?

Luke 20:  ⁴⁵ While all the people were listening, Jesus said to his disciples, ⁴⁶ “Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. ⁴⁷ They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”

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After a number of leadership classes and meeting the right people, I was finally “heard” as this was a burning desire of mine for years. I was respected by everyone or at least I thought. When the time came to cut people from the workforce, I had my blade ready and sharpened with my list.

“They’ll be fine and if they aren’t then maybe they shouldn’t have been working in the first place” I justified to myself never once thinking of the widows.

• Human titles mean nothing to GOD.
• Human titles do not bring GODLY respect.
• Human titles can cause me to act arrogantly.

I once overheard someone ask “who is he” about me and the response was “he is the leader of the entire organization.” Wow, that sounded kind of nice and I would try to do anything to keep that power.  I would fire my mother if they told me to.

• GOD wants me to leverage human titles to be compassionate to many.
• GOD wants human titles to only be a part of me and not consume me.
• GOD wants me to be mindful of those in need. (That’s a period at the end of that sentence)

Unfortunately today, titles come with the responsibility of making the “hard calls.” The easier I can make the hard calls the higher the title and the better seat I can get at the banquet. GOD doesn’t mind me being at the banquet as long as I put HIM in the best seat.

• Would you do “anything” for that title?
• Would you rearrange your morals to achieve that role?
• Have you lost who you are trying to be something other people want you to be?
• Do you even need to be “that” title?
• Can you achieve that title GOD’s way instead of your way?

I’m better than that person

Luke 17: ⁹ To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable:

¹⁰ “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. ¹¹ The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. ¹² I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’

   ¹³ “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’

   ¹⁴ “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

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My neighborhood where I grew up was not bad by any stretch of the imagination but there were a few unsavory characters.  One guy constantly broke in our garage and there were others who acted loud and obnoxious.

My parents once scolded me for not doing my chores and I said in my defense, “I’m doing better than those guys.”

• Just because I do fewer sins than another person doesn’t mean I am not off the hook for my own sins.
• Just because someone does something worse than the sin I just did doesn’t give me the right to compare myself to them.
• Just because I have reset my standards doesn’t mean everyone around me is going to reset theirs.

My friends and family have felt my judgmental behavior which actually drives them away from GOD. Discussions about “those” sinners are not appealing to anyone. GOD wants me to humbly admit “I am a sinner.” By the way there is a period on that last sentence.

• Do you think you are better than “that” person?
• Have you stopped doing certain sins and judging others for doing those sins?
• What sins are you hiding?
• Are you willing to proclaim your sins in front of everyone to finally release its deadly grip on you?

Stop holding GOD hostage.

Luke 17: ¹⁰ So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’

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GOD is pretty convenient to me sometimes. HE just sits in the corner collecting dust and when I face trouble and adversity I just go to the corner, dust HIM off and pray to HIM. HE seems to be a hostage to my every beckon call.

• GOD does not deserve to be treated like a servant even though HE is the best at being one.
• GOD desires true worship from me but my selfishness gets in the way.
• GOD is not impressed by the five minutes I spend being “good” because HE really knows my heart.

Sometimes I get rather “deserving” when it comes to my relationship with GOD.  I get mad at HIM because HE hasn’t given me my way. I mean I went to church, gave my money and prayed for that thing, what more does HE want?!

• Serving GOD is a privilege, not a way to manipulate HIM into giving me more.
• Serving GOD is only a small part of my relationship with HIM.
• Serving GOD is my duty, loving GOD is my need.

I’ll say it again, “GOD is not impressed with my service” but HE does get excited when I love HIM with all my heart, with all my mind and with all my soul. When I place my faith in HIS ways and mistrust mine, HE shows me HIS might and fights my battles.

• Are you trying to manipulate GOD into giving you something?
• Can you trust HIM to give you a wonderful blessing?
• Will you drop your usual expectations of HIM that set HIM up for failure?
• Will you serve GOD today strictly out of your love for HIM, not expecting anything in return?

Have I lost connection?

Colossians 2: ¹⁸ Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind. ¹⁹ They have lost connection with the head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow.

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We circled the Wal-Mart parking lot for the last time with the fortune of finding a close spot. Two gentlemen approached me asking for money to “catch a bus” even though this store was far away from public transportation. The thought crossed my mind to tell them about CHRIST especially since I had just volunteered for the Billy Graham outreach.

It had been a long time since I told someone the gospel so unfortunately the words didn’t come out so well as my judgmental tone preceded my message. “Do you know JESUS” I questioned in a condescending tone. As I talked “at” them I noticed their eyes glaze over as they searched for a way to get away from me. I had lost connection!

• False humility is the ugliest way to worship GOD.
• False humility let’s me judge others without looking at myself.
• False humility means I am following the letters of the “law” without understanding the “heart” behind it.
• False humility lives on the “past” service I have done which gives me the license to “currently” judge others.

When I live a life thinking I am spiritually clean I justify my judgmental actions. I declare others unworthy of my wealth and time and I get out of practice of being compassionate. I start complaining about what “others” are doing wrong and what “they” are saying without thinking about GOD.

• GOD is the one who draws people to HIMSELF.
• GOD is the one who holds the true church together.
• GOD is the one who has the right to judge yet shows compassion.

When GOD became a human and allowed HIMSELF to be murdered, that action took all my judgment away. It’s my job to exclaim the great news about being saved from eternal separation from GOD instead of judging people for what they do.

• Are you talking about “them” and what “they” do instead of looking at yourself?
• Do you openly listen to messages about giving or do you judge who should get your money?
• Do you think GOD needs you to spread HIS gospel or do you feel thankful that’s “why” you spread the gospel?

Unity sounds so nice right now.

Ephesians 4: ²Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ³Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. ⁴There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— ⁵one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

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My heart was heavy as I reviewed what seems to be going on in the world today. Many selfish couples are mad at each other because they are not getting “their way.” Politics are in the toilet because of the extreme hatred shown around the world. People laugh and joke about their sin as if GOD doesn’t mind or care.

This can make anyone want to throw up their hands and say “what’s the use!” BUT GOD speaks differently to me through these words. In order for the world to be better, I need show people who GOD is.

• Instead of being arrogant, I can be confident yet humble.
• Instead of being hostile, I can be stern yet gentle.
• Instead of being impatient, I can be focused yet patient.
• Instead of being judgmental, I can be realistic yet peace seeking.

GOD tells me to “make every effort to keep the unity of the SPIRIT through the bond of peace.” When the wheels are flying off my plans, I need to follow what HE tells me to do and remain calm.  HE will make the adjustments in the lives of others in order for me to assist them in HIS great unifying effort.

In other words, the first step to unity always has to be taken by me. Sound unfair? Sometimes, BUT GOD rewards me each time I make a step towards the unity HE wants me to show.  GOD made humans to get along with each other, I need to do this as much as I can, no matter how someone else is acting.

• There is only ONE GOD.
• There is only ONE hope.
• There is only ONE SPIRIT.
• There is only ONE body.

GOD is in everything and is everywhere. HE created people who live and think differently than I do. As much as I like to get my way, GOD wants unity.

• How are your relationships?
• Do you like to be “heard” or to “win” the argument?
• Why is “your way” better than “their way?”

Be concerned about "everyone."

Acts 1:8But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

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When I was younger I said, "Why would anyone go out of the country? We have mountains here, warm weather, tropical islands and skiing. What more could anyone ask for?" That was before I went on my first missions trip!

I remember the challenge. The pastor asked if there were anyone who felt led to go with him to Zimbabwe a country where race relations has deteriorated to deep hatred. I never imagined doing this, yet I found myself raising my hand and soon I was standing next to him.

"Wake up! What am I doing?", I quickly thought to myself. Pictures of people living in mud encrusted villages ran through my mind. I couldn't help thinking about the baby they always showed on TV with the “poked out” belly from starvation and the persistent fly circling its eye.

I told my friends and family that I was going to go. "WHAT?" They said in confusion mixed with rage. "What will you eat?" "Where will you sleep?" "Don't they have diseases over there?" "Don't we have unsaved people here? Why go there?"

These were all great questions I couldn't answer. I only knew that GOD was leading me to do this. After going to the orientation, many meetings and numerous vaccinations, the day of the trip arrived. We flew for 17 hours and arrived in Harare.

I peeked out the window as we were about to land. We flew over a pristine golf course and passed the skyscrapers that looked somewhat like Atlanta. After landing we met with a group of pastors and church leaders. They showed us around and we went to the houses we would stay in.

I thought I would teach people in this trip so I was well prepared. I had my notes and documents and I was ready! Well, I thought I was ready. My mind was ready but my attitude wasn't. In a condescending way, I was going to "teach" these people and go home to my comforts. Wow was I wrong!

During a conference a man made his way to me and said he had walked the equivalent of 20 miles to hear me speak. "You're kidding!" I thought to myself. Then GOD opened my eyes. There were several people like him who had journeyed great distances to hear someone give a message of hope.

I was humbled.

We went to another stop that week where I saw entire families of four and five living in 6' by 6' houses. Row after row, these houses seemed to go on forever, sort of a modern updated form of a village. We went to a makeshift church with a dirt floor and worn wood on cinder blocks as pews.

I saw GOD move on these people and 30 people gave their life to CHRIST. I questioned their genuineness towards their situation until I went back on another trip years later and saw the same people still serving CHRIST.

I was humbled.

We went to another church and a man got up and began singing. People from all over the community came to hear and join in. After the song ended another began. The shouts and roars about GOD was tremendous. Wow, what a great moment!

They sang another song, then another and another. I thought to myself, "This is taking long!" You haven't seen long until you have attended praise at this church. TWO HOURS later, people were shouting and celebrating. They had nothing and were celebrating. Then the man said "any requests for a song!?"

I was humbled.

We finally had a down day as these trips can get busy. We toured the city then went out into the "rural" areas. There we pulled over and I saw a man sitting next to his hut. He invited us to see his hut so we went in. I have never seen anyone so proud. He had his wife and kids there.

They had cows an garden and a lemon tree grew next to the hut. "Look at my lemon tree!" he said through our interpreter. That moment "it" hit me. He was excited over what little he had and I was worried over the junk and trinkets I tried to keep back home. He didn't seem to have any worries. I had all the worries.

I was more than humbled.

GOD says to be HIS witness around the world. HE says go to the ends of the earth and tell people about HIS SON. I pondered this and I found out that HE wants me to see things from a global perspective.

• When I focus too close I become narrow minded.
• When I focus too close I can exclude groups of people.
• When I focus too close I can become arrogant.
• When I focus too close I can become ignorant.

I heard a comedian say, "Yes we have poor folks here in the US, but our poor folks are fat." In his crude humor he is saying that situations can get bad here in the US, but other countries have it worse.

I learned a lot from this trip.

• Never assume I will "teach" people rather just be prepared. Teaching is GOD's job.
• Never think I am living "better." My trinkets may cause a spiritual degradation.
• Never make worship mundane. GOD wants me to live in the moment with HIM.
• Always be ready to serve and in the process be open to being served.

GOD has called us all to "go" and I understand the many reasons for not going. I am glad HE sent me. My view of the world has changed.

• Are you only concerned with a very narrow group of people?
• Is there any human on the planet who GOD doesn't love?
• Did HIS SON die for everyone or just your neighborhood?
• Can you pray for people outside of your community, city, state and country today?