Stay Humble

“Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves therefore, under God’s hand that He may lift you up in due time (1 Peter 5:5-6)

Can you remember how you felt when you graduated from high school, college or grad school? You had lofty ambitions and you were going to get there as quickly as possible. You had all the education you needed to step into a high-paying job and be successful. Perhaps you could even improve the work environment with your great intentions and attitude.

One interview followed another and eventually you got that call. Your excitement was off the charts and you were ready to conquer the world. After your first day of work, some of that joy was replaced with brain overload and exhaustion but you went back the next day and the next.

After that ninety-day probation period, your benefits kicked in and again, you were at the top of the mountain. For most, not long after was when you noticed a definite swing on the employment pendulum. Your cooperative, helpful attitude was now focused on better ways to do things but you said nothing because you were the new kid on the block. It became a chore to get out of bed and be there on time, let alone early. Shortly, you become a clock watcher.

After my many different jobs during my lifetime, I am still learning to accept things when they don’t go my way. I try to remain humble under His mighty hand but sometimes it is extremely difficult. I must trust Him even when I don’t understand and I don’t want the world’s impact to pull me away from Him. I need to put on blinders and just focus. Many times, I have had to say, “I don’t know it all. Give me a teachable heart!” Perhaps the most helpful thing we can do is say, “I have made a mistake. Please forgive me!” I have said that to family, friends, bosses and to God and it has made a difference.

Having a humble heart helps us to see circumstances from His perspective.

Lean on Me (Bill Withers) with Playing for Change

Father, help me to lean on You more and more and forget about what the world is telling me. Please give me a clearer focus on Your plans for me. AMEN.