Joyville, February 1st, 2009

Building on Something

Situation: Two people are building a house, one on sand & one on rock. They both build and then storms come and the rock house stands, sand house falls.

Scripture: Matthew 7:24-27

Songs:

• Roll the Gospel Chariot
• Oh, You Can't Get to Heaven
• The Wise Man Built His House

Humility Study: Part XXIII - Brought Low

Isaiah 2:6-22
You have abandoned your people, the house of Jacob. They are full of superstitions from the East; they practice divination like the Philistines and clasp hands with pagans. Their land is full of silver and gold; there is no end to their treasures. Their land is full of horses; there is no end to their chariots. Their land is full of idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their fingers have made. So man will be brought low and mankind humbled— do not forgive them. Go into the rocks, hide in the ground from dread of the LORD and the splendor of his majesty! The eyes of the arrogant man will be humbled and the pride of men brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. The LORD Almighty has a day in store for all the proud and lofty, for all that is exalted (and they will be humbled), for all the cedars of Lebanon, tall and lofty, and all the oaks of Bashan, for all the towering mountains and all the high hills, for every lofty tower and every fortified wall, for every trading ship and every stately vessel. The arrogance of man will be brought low and the pride of men humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day, and the idols will totally disappear. Men will flee to caves in the rocks and to holes in the ground from dread of the LORD and the splendor of his majesty, when he rises to shake the earth. In that day men will throw away to the rodents and bats their idols of silver and idols of gold, which they made to worship. They will flee to caverns in the rocks and to the overhanging crags from dread of the LORD and the splendor of his majesty, when he rises to shake the earth. Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he?

Humility Study: Part XXII - Humble Reconciliation

Psalm 18:24-30
The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight. To the faithful you show yourself faithful, to the blameless you show yourself blameless, to the pure you show yourself pure, but to the crooked you show yourself shrewd. You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty. You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall. As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.

God saves the humble but brings low to the proud. He brings low those who have pride, a self-righteous pride that they think of themselves better than others. To the pure, he shows himself as being pure. To the humble, he shows himself as humble. To the faithful, he shows himself faithful. Interesting? I think so. To be humble is to believe that God's way is perfect. Sometimes, it is hard to believe. I'm just being honest. You know, those situations where you react with prideful emotion, or at least you want to... and believe you are justified for acting in such a way? Several years ago, there was this family member and I got into a big argument. I thought I was right for acting the way I did. There wasn't any respect for the people I "threw down" on, and they responded in kind. One family member and I haven't really talked since, which wasn't my choice... but I respected the decision that they made. I feel that I should reconcile, but am not sure how to approach the task. I know I was wrong for the way I said things, and for some part, I was wrong to simply have said some things - period. And so to be humble, I need to at least attempt to reconcile. To be humble is to please God. To be humble is to live at peace with others. To be humble, I should attempt to reconcile.

Humility Study: Part XXI - God's Approval

Matthew 5:1-12
Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

These are a lot of blessings. Those who mourn will be comforted. Those who are poor in spirit will have the kingdom of heaven. Those who are hungry for righteousness will be filled. Those who show mercy will be shown mercy. Those who have a pure heart will see God. How about that? Peacemakers will be called sons of God. Those who are persecuted because of doing the right thing will receive the kingdom of heaven. Persecution is a time of rejoicing simply because of the reward. And those who are humble and meek will inherit the Earth. If you make yourself low, you will be made high. Now, I am not sure why the meek get the Earth... personally, I would much better prefer to be in heaven with God. But if God says it is a good thing, then AMEN, it's a good thing. What is important is to have a heart of humility, a heart to love God with everything and a heart to do what God wants me to do. And if I have that heart, God will approve. And that is the real goal. To gain the approval of the Lord.

Humility Study: Part XX - Selfish and Proud

Zephaniah 3
Woe to the city of oppressors, rebellious and defiled! She obeys no one, she accepts no correction. She does not trust in the LORD, she does not draw near to her God. Her officials are roaring lions, her rulers are evening wolves, who leave nothing for the morning. Her prophets are arrogant; they are treacherous men. Her priests profane the sanctuary and do violence to the law. The LORD within her is righteous; he does no wrong. Morning by morning he dispenses his justice, and every new day he does not fail, yet the unrighteous know no shame.

"I have cut off nations; their strongholds are demolished. I have left their streets deserted, with no one passing through. Their cities are destroyed; no one will be left—no one at all. I said to the city, 'Surely you will fear me and accept correction!' Then her dwelling would not be cut off, nor all my punishments come upon her. But they were still eager to act corruptly in all they did. Therefore wait for me," declares the LORD, "for the day I will stand up to testify. I have decided to assemble the nations, to gather the kingdoms and to pour out my wrath on them— all my fierce anger. The whole world will be consumed by the fire of my jealous anger. "Then will I purify the lips of the peoples, that all of them may call on the name of the LORD and serve him shoulder to shoulder. From beyond the rivers of Cush my worshipers, my scattered people, will bring me offerings. On that day you will not be put to shame for all the wrongs you have done to me, because I will remove from this city those who rejoice in their pride. Never again will you be haughty on my holy hill. But I will leave within you the meek and humble, who trust in the name of the LORD. The remnant of Israel will do no wrong; they will speak no lies, nor will deceit be found in their mouths. They will eat and lie down and no one will make them afraid."

Sing, O Daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O Daughter of Jerusalem! The LORD has taken away your punishment, he has turned back your enemy. The LORD, the King of Israel, is with you; never again will you fear any harm. On that day they will say to Jerusalem, "Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands hang limp. The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."

"The sorrows for the appointed feasts I will remove from you; they are a burden and a reproach to you. At that time I will deal with all who oppressed you; I will rescue the lame and gather those who have been scattered. I will give them praise and honor in every land where they were put to shame. At that time I will gather you; at that time I will bring you home. I will give you honor and praise among all the peoples of the earth when I restore your fortunes before your very eyes," says the LORD.

This is a good example of how God loves the humble and meek. He says he will spare the humble and the meek... but for everyone else: WATCHOUT! So, if being meek and humble has so many advantages, why is it so hard to accomplish a lifestyle that is defined by being meek and humble? I would have to say that it is human nature (our sinful nature) to be proud and selfish. And maybe that is the way to understand what being meek and humble are, that is to see what they aren't.

Selfish (adjective):

• Devoted to or caring only for oneself; concerned primarily with one's own interests, benefits, welfare, etc., regardless of others.
• Characterized by or manifesting concern or care only for oneself.
• Believing or teaching that the chief motives of human action are derived from love of self.
• Caring supremely or unduly for one's self; regarding one's own comfort, advantage, etc., in disregard, or at the expense, of those of others.

Proud (adjective):

• Highly gratifying to the feelings or self-esteem.
• Having, proceeding from, or showing a high opinion of one's own dignity, importance, or superiority.
• Having or showing self-respect or self-esteem.
• Of lofty dignity or distinction.
• Feeling pleasurable satisfaction over an act, possession, quality, or relationship by which one measures one's stature or self-worth
• Filled with or showing excessive self-esteem.
• Feeling self-respect or pleasure in something by which you measure your self-worth; or being a reason for pride.
• Synonyms: Arrogant; Haughty; Disdainful; Supercilious

These are the things that being meek and humility are not. I don't know if it helps any of you guys out there... but it helps me.

Humility Study: Part XIX - It's a Beautiful Meek

Psalm 37

Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land. A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace. The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them; but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming. The wicked draw the sword and bend the bow to bring down the poor and needy, to slay those whose ways are upright. But their swords will pierce their own hearts, and their bows will be broken. Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked; for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous. The days of the blameless are known to the LORD, and their inheritance will endure forever. In times of disaster they will not wither; in days of famine they will enjoy plenty. But the wicked will perish: The LORD's enemies will be like the beauty of the fields, they will vanish—vanish like smoke. The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously; those the LORD blesses will inherit the land, but those he curses will be cut off. If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand. I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread. They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed. Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever. For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever, but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off; the righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever. The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks what is just. The law of his God is in his heart; his feet do not slip. The wicked lie in wait for the righteous, seeking their very lives; but the LORD will not leave them in their power or let them be condemned when brought to trial. Wait for the LORD and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you will see it. I have seen a wicked and ruthless man flourishing like a green tree in its native soil, but he soon passed away and was no more; though I looked for him, he could not be found. Consider the blameless, observe the upright; there is a future for the man of peace. But all sinners will be destroyed; the future of the wicked will be cut off. The salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. The LORD helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.

Now, as I have learned earlier this month, meek and humble and pretty much interchangable. To say that the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace is also to say that the humble will inherit the land and enjoy great peace. What is it to be meek and humble? Well, Jesus was a solid example as to what that looks like. He would go visit someone simply based on them asking for him to go. He healed when they asked. He helped everyone who asked. He went well out of his way to help other people. And this is God in the flesh. I mean, if there is ever a person who walked this Earth who deserved to be served, it was him. And what did he do? He served. He was humble. He was meek.

Humility Study: Part XVIII - Grace to the Proud

James 4:1-12

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely? But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

Humility leads to acceptance... being accepted by God. God lifts us up when we do his will, and being humble to his will is the first step. And being humble to God means being humble to his commands, which is love your God with everything you have and loving your neighbor as you would love yourself. Now, it is also written that you should deny yourself, but I don't think that tying that into the loving your neighbor as yourself means denying your neighbor. Quite the opposite, the good fortune that we wish to have for ourselves is what we are to supply for our neighbor. It means that instead of having the first slice of cake, you give it up to someone else. It also means that if I see a stranded person on the side of the road, and I should help them, since if I were stuck on the side of the road, I would want someone to stop and help me. But the conflict I have with the "stuck on the side of the road" situation, is that I normally have responsibilities that I need to attend to when I see that particular situation. And it begs the question, do I stop and help, as I would want someone to do for me, or do I let me "yes" be "yes" and fulfill the responsibility of being somewhere on time? I want to do good in two situations, but can only be good in one and thus cause neglect in another area. What I find myself doing more and more is simply pray for the situation of the person stuck on the road and fulfilling my obligation to be somewhere on time. Am I wrong for not stopping? Part of me says yes. Part of me says no. I don't think there really is a win-win situation in this scenario...

Humility Study: Part XVII - Completely

Ephesians 4:1-16
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says: "When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men." (What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.


Be completely humble, is what it says. COMPLETELY. Not partially, not 97%, but completely. And what that says to me is that I have to do whatever I can to be humble in every situation. And I can't say that would be an easy thing. I was at work on Thursday and started getting an attitude at a potential customer because I thought they were being mean to me. It turned out that they weren't being mean to me at all, but it was my perceived perception that they were. And that's not cool. I didn't let on to the customer that I had this attitude but I confessed it as soon as I got off the phone. Being humble starts from the inside and works it way outward. Being humble starts at the heart. At least that's what I have learned thus far.

Humility Study: Part XVI - A Humble Crown

Psalm 149

Praise the LORD. Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints. Let Israel rejoice in their Maker; let the people of Zion be glad in their King. Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp. For the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation. Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds. May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands, to inflict vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples, to bind their kings with fetters, their nobles with shackles of iron, to carry out the sentence written against them. This is the glory of all his saints. Praise the LORD.

God delights in his people... that's cool. And his people are who do His will. And what is really awesome is that those who do His will are humble and meek and they get a crown of salvation. Isn't that sweet? God delights in dancing and music. I just think that God is having a party, waiting for His people on the day of judgement.

Humility Study: Part XV - The Humble Guide

Psalm 25

To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul; in you I trust, O my God. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame, but they will be put to shame who are treacherous without excuse. Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Remember, O LORD, your great mercy and love, for they are from of old. Remember not the sins of my youth and my rebellious ways; according to your love remember me, for you are good, O LORD. Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the ways of the LORD are loving and faithful for those who keep the demands of his covenant. For the sake of your name, O LORD, forgive my iniquity, though it is great. Who, then, is the man that fears the LORD He will instruct him in the way chosen for him. He will spend his days in prosperity, and his descendants will inherit the land. The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them. My eyes are ever on the LORD, for only he will release my feet from the snare. Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. The troubles of my heart have multiplied; free me from my anguish. Look upon my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins. See how my enemies have increased and how fiercely they hate me! Guard my life and rescue me; let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you. Redeem Israel, O God, from all their troubles!

This is a great Psalm. David wrote this one and it shows how... dependant he is on God. To be taught by God is to be humble toward his teaching. And it says here that there are blessings to go with that. My eyes are ever on the Lord. My hope is in you. Such strong and humble words. Is that how I live my life? How about you, is that how you live your life? It's convicting to think about it, really. But for God to guide me, I have to be humble. For God to teach me, I have to become teachable. To become teachable, I have to have a meek attitude and not one of being proud and a know-it-all.

Humility Study: Part XIV - Humble Manna

Deuteronomy 8:1-18
Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land that the LORD promised on oath to your forefathers. Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.

Observe the commands of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and revering him. For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land—a land with streams and pools of water, with springs flowing in the valleys and hills; a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills.

When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down, and when your herds and flocks grow large and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied, then your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. He led you through the vast and dreadful desert, that thirsty and waterless land, with its venomous snakes and scorpions. He brought you water out of hard rock. He gave you manna to eat in the desert, something your fathers had never known, to humble and to test you so that in the end it might go well with you. You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.

Humble (‛ânâh - pronounced: aw-naw'):

• To depress literally or figuratively, transitively or intransitively (in various applications): abase self, afflict (affliction, self), answer, chasten self, deal hardly with, defile, exercise, force, gentleness, humble (self), hurt, ravish, sing, speak, submit self, weaken.

You know, I have probably read this passage a dozen or more times. I don't think I really picked up that manna was a form of humbling. I picked up that it was a test, since they had to pick certain amounts on certain days, which some didn't obey. The reason food showed up from Monday to Saturday is because God commanded it. I live on the mouth of the Lord, the word of the Lord and what he commands. Or do I? I mean, how tightly do I bind myself to the word? Do I only accept certain passages and others, I do not? Well, it is all or nothing. That's what God wants.

Humility Study: Part XIII - Meekness

Numbers 12:1-9
Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite. "Has the LORD spoken only through Moses?" they asked. "Hasn't he also spoken through us?" And the LORD heard this.

(Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.)

At once the LORD said to Moses, Aaron and Miriam, "Come out to the Tent of Meeting, all three of you." So the three of them came out. Then the LORD came down in a pillar of cloud; he stood at the entrance to the Tent and summoned Aaron and Miriam. When both of them stepped forward, he said, "Listen to my words: "When a prophet of the LORD is among you, I reveal myself to him in visions, I speak to him in dreams.

But this is not true of my servant Moses; he is faithful in all my house.

With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the LORD. Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?"

The anger of the LORD burned against them, and he left them.

Humble (‛ânâv - pronounced: aw-nawv'):

• Depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly): humble, lowly, meek, poor.

Meek (adjective):

• Humbly patient or docile, as under provocation from others.
• Overly submissive or compliant; spiritless; tame.
• Gentle; kind.
• Showing patience and humility; gentle.
• Easily imposed on; submissive.
• Mild of temper; not easily provoked or orritated; patient under injuries; not vain, or haughty, or resentful; forbearing; submissive.

Wow, being meek is a challenge. How can someone stand up for what they believe in and still be meek? Being humble doesn't necessarily mean being a doormat. I guess that is where being gentle and kind come in. I guess you can stand up for yourself but still be gentle, kind and patient.

Humility Study: Part XII - Humility Clothes

1 Peter 5:1-11
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

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 mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Clothe myself with humility. And I wear humility around me, because clothes are an outward appearance. I do this to my brothers and sisters (and actually to everyone, as another scripture says to do). And it is said that I should humble myself. Or I could let God humble me. I would much rather do it myself than let the Lord humble me, mostly because his humbling can be a little tougher on me that what I would do for myself. But that is the choice, God humbling me or me humbling me. What will it be?

It's actually 12 of 14.

Humility Study: Part XI - Wisdom and Humility

James 3:13-18
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

To have humility, there has to be wisdom. Maybe that will be my topic for February. And that makes sense, to show humility, you have to be wise and think things through before choosing an action. And what is also noteworthy, wisdom that leads to humility is not worldly wisdom but wisdom that comes from God, a pure wisdom. This will be interesting to see what comes next month when I study out some wisdom.

It is actually 11 of 13, since I missed out last weekend.

Humility Study: Part X - True Humility

Titus 3:1-11

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.

At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.

Now, what I like about this scripture is just how challenging it is. Show TRUE HUMILITY to the people you want to show humility towards. Oh wait, it doesn't say that at all. It says to show true humility to ALL MEN. Show humility towards everyone. And I struggle with that. There are some people out there that it is simply tough to show humility towards. They have a bad attitude and they know how to push the buttons that set me off... and I have a choice in how I respond. Do I show humility or do I respond in anger. I am afraid that I generally respond in the latter instead of the prior. and that is one of the reasons why I am doing this study: to become more and more humble.

It's actually 10 of 12 now.

Humility Study: Part IX - False Humility

Colossians 2:6-23
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.

For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority. In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.

When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has 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.

Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.

I guess to study out what humility is, it is good to see what it is not. False humility is about showmanship. Or to put is another way, it is to look good for a crowd. And I want to say that vanity is a big part of the US culture. Actually, I think it just might be a part of any culture, in one form or another. Worship of angels is considered false humility. It actually disqualifies you from the prize. False humility is self-imposed worship, it conveys a message that people need to act like me (or you) in order to be a more spiritual person. They lack self-restraint. I personally struggle with self-restraint. Currently, I am fasting (I say this matter of factly, not to gloat or anything) and it is teaching me a valuable lesson in self-restraint. And self-restraint builds humility. How? By relying on God instead of the pleasures of this world.

Humility Study: Part VIII - The Humble Cross

Philippians 2:1-11

If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

I would have to say that when someone thinks about humility and a needs to see a scripture in regards to humility, this is the scripture to go to. "In humility, consider others better than yourself." Christ himself humbled himself to become obedient to a death on the cross. He became obedient to the flogging. And he did it to not glorify himself, but to glorify God. And by doing so, he showed that he wasn't thinking of himself at all, but of you and me. He went to that cross to take away my sins. And yours. And it is written that I should live a life like Christ. Does that mean I should go to the cross? Yes. Or at least have a life that shows that I would do such a thing. I can't take your sins away. That action has, in a sense, been done by Christ. The only way to attain such forgiveness is to repent and be baptized, if you haven't already done so...

Humility Study: Part VII

Acts 20:17-24
From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived, he said to them: "You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I came into the province of Asia. I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews. You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus."

"And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."

What I like about Paul is that he is not afraid to tell it like it is. He seved with "great humility". He preached from house to house. He preached about faith in Jesus Christ. And he didn't hesitate to preach. He said that his task was to testify to the gospel of God's grace.

How humble was Paul? Well, he considered his life worth NOTHING. Which begs the question, how much do I consider my life is worth? If it is worth something, then I am not completely humble.

Humility Study: Part VI - Humble Shelter

Zephaniah 1:14-2:3
"The great day of the LORD is near— near and coming quickly. Listen! The cry on the day of the LORD will be bitter, the shouting of the warrior there. That day will be a day of wrath, a day of distress and anguish, a day of trouble and ruin, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness, a day of trumpet and battle cry against the fortified cities and against the corner towers. I will bring distress on the people and they will walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the LORD. Their blood will be poured out like dust and their entrails like filth. Neither their silver nor their gold will be able to save them on the day of the LORD's wrath. In the fire of his jealousy the whole world will be consumed, for he will make a sudden end of all who live in the earth." Gather together, gather together, O shameful nation, before the appointed time arrives and that day sweeps on like chaff, before the fierce anger of the LORD comes upon you, before the day of the LORD's wrath comes upon you. Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the LORD's anger.

Another list...

• Seek the LORD
• Seek righteousness
• Seek humility

Things that may cause shelter from God's anger would be seeking the LORD, seeking righteousness and seeking humility.

Humility Study: Part V - Wages

Proverbs 22
A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all. The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty. Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life. In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. Those who sow injustice reap calamity, and the rod they wield in fury will be broken. The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor. Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended. One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend. The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful. The sluggard says, "There's a lion outside! I'll be killed in the public square!" The mouth of an adulterous woman is a deep pit; a man who is under the LORD's wrath falls into it. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away. Those who oppress the poor to increase their wealth and those who give gifts to the rich—both come to poverty. Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips. So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you. Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge, teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth, so that you bring back truthful reports to those you serve? Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the LORD will take up their case and will exact life for life. Do not make friends with the hot-tempered, do not associate with those who are easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared. Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you. Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors. Do you see those who are skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.

Humility: If you are humble, you get "paid" in wealth, in honor, and in life. Now, wealth and honor are pretty straight forward. But peing paid "life", well that is a new one. I am sure that it is meaning eternal life.

Let's see...

Life (chay - pronounced: khah'ee)

• Alive; hence raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or living thing), whether literally or figuratively: age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life (lifetime), live (lively), living (creature, thing), maintenance, merry, multitude, (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop.

Humility (‛ănâvâh - pronounced: an-aw-vaw')

• Condescension, human and subjective (modesty), or divine and objective (clemency): gentleness, humility, meekness.

Condescension (noun):

• An act or instance of condescending.
• Behavior that is patronizing or condescending.
• Voluntary assumption of equality with a person regarded as inferior.
• Do something that one considers to be below one's dignity.
• Debase oneself morally, act in an undignified, unworthy, or dishonorable way.

I just don't think that God would want me to exhibit condescension toward another person. Something about the word just doesn't sit right with me.

Clement (adjective):

• Mild or merciful in disposition or character; lenient; compassionate.

Humility Study: Part IV - Uncrushed Spirits

Proverbs 18
An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and against all sound judgment starts quarrels. Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. When wickedness comes, so does contempt, and with shame comes reproach. The words of the mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream. It is not good to be partial to the wicked and so deprive the innocent of justice. The lips of fools bring them strife, and their mouths invite a beating. The mouths of fools are their undoing, and their lips are a snare to their very lives. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts. One who is slack in his work is a close relative of one who destroys. The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. The wealth of the rich is their fortified city; they imagine it a wall too high to scale. Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor. To answer before listening— that is folly and shame. The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear? The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great. In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines. Casting the lot settles disputes and keeps strong opponents apart. A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city; disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel. From the fruit of their mouths people's stomachs are filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD. The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly. One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

My wife and I are going through a bit of hard times. It isn't anything she is doing. It really isn't anything I am doing, either. It is simply history creeping up on us.

The Seven Senses:

• Sight
• Smell
• Taste
• Hearing
• Touch
• Intuition
• Equalibrium

Intuition is a direct perception of truth or fact. And sometimes history can do that to a person. Something that is truth, but has been forgotten by trajedy and trama. And then it suddenly comes to the forefront of the mind in patches... and it crushes the spirit. And that is when the recovery begins.

So, where does the humility come in? It comes in when my "needs" get interupted. When needs get interupted, I feel that I am playing second fiddle to someone or something that really needs to have as much focus as possible. I get jealous or have feelings of being hurt. But being humble means that I put her needs first. I put her needs first and I put my needs last. In fact, I put my needs so far last, that I do not even consider that I have needs.

Humility Study: Part III - Prehonor Rituals

Proverbs 15
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. The eyes of the LORD are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good. The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence. The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings them trouble. The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools. The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him. The LORD detests the way of the wicked but he loves those who pursue righteousness. Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die. Death and Destruction lie open before the LORD— how much more the hearts of men! A mocker resents correction; he will not consult the wise. A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit. The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly. All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast. Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred. A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel. The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway. A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother. Folly delights a man who lacks judgment, but a man of understanding keeps a straight course. Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. A man finds joy in giving an apt reply— and how good is a timely word! The path of life leads upward for the wise to keep him from going down to the grave. The LORD tears down the proud man's house but he keeps the widow's boundaries intact. The LORD detests the thoughts of the wicked, but those of the pure are pleasing to him. A greedy man brings trouble to his family, but he who hates bribes will live. The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil. The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous. A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding. The fear of the LORD teaches a man wisdom, and humility comes before honor.

A person who is disciplined has characteristics of humility. So, what does this chapter say about discipline?

• A fool spurns his father's discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.
• Stern discipline awaits him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.
• He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding.

Not only that, but Proverbs also says this:

• The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. (Proverbs 1:7)
• My son, do not despise the LORD's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. (Proverbs 3:11-12)
• The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of his sin hold him fast. He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly. (Proverbs 5:22-23)
• My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mother's teaching. For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life, keeping you from the immoral woman, from the smooth tongue of the wayward wife. (Proverbs 6:20, 23-24)
• He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. (Proverbs 10:17)
• Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. (Proverbs 12:1)
• He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. (Proverbs 13:18)
• Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death. (Proverbs 19:18)
• Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far from him. (Proverbs 22:15)
• Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish him with the rod, he will not die. Punish him with the rod and save his soul from death. (Proverbs 23:12-14)
• Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding. The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him. (Proverbs 23:22-24)

If I discipline my son, then... well, there is a good outcome for him. If I don't, then I am an active participant in his death. Wow, talk about severe. And the same goes for God and me. The relationship is that God is to discipline me so that God is not an active participant in my death. I have to listen to the discipline he is feeding me. I have to be humble to the discipline. Otherwise, I am just some stupid idiot.

Humility Study: Part II - H U M I L I T Y

Proverbs 11

The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight. When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity. Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. The righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for them, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness. The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires. When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; all he expected from his power comes to nothing. The righteous man is rescued from trouble, and it comes on the wicked instead. With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape. When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy. Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed. A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue. A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret. For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure. He who puts up security for another will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to strike hands in pledge is safe. A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself. The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. The truly righteous man attains life, but he who pursues evil goes to his death. The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless. Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free. Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion. The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath. One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. People curse the man who hoards grain, but blessing crowns him who is willing to sell. He who seeks good finds goodwill, but evil comes to him who searches for it. Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise. The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise. If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!

The fruits of righteousness. There's a lot of good information. I put all the words that contained righteous in bold. Check this out:

• Righteousness delivers from death.
• Righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for them.
• Righteousness of the upright delivers them.
• The righteous man is rescued from trouble.
• Through knowledge the righteous escape.
• When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices.
• He who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.
• The truly righteous man attains life.
• Those who are righteous will go free.
• The desire of the righteous ends only in good.
• The righteous will thrive like a green leaf.
• The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life.

And how can the righteous man get to these points? Well, I believe it has to do with wisdom and humility. And to get wisdom, you have to be humble.

Humility Study: Part I - Humble Yourself

Psalm 45
My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer. You are the most excellent of men and your lips have been anointed with grace, since God has blessed you forever. Gird your sword upon your side, O mighty one; clothe yourself with splendor and majesty. In your majesty ride forth victoriously in behalf of truth, humility and righteousness; let your right hand display awesome deeds. Let your sharp arrows pierce the hearts of the king's enemies; let the nations fall beneath your feet. Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad. Daughters of kings are among your honored women; at your right hand is the royal bride in gold of Ophir. Listen, O daughter, consider and give ear: Forget your people and your father's house. The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord. The Daughter of Tyre will come with a gift, men of wealth will seek your favor. All glorious is the princess within her chamber ; her gown is interwoven with gold. In embroidered garments she is led to the king; her virgin companions follow her and are brought to you. They are led in with joy and gladness; they enter the palace of the king. Your sons will take the place of your fathers; you will make them princes throughout the land. I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.

To me, it appears there is a list of what makes up a victory. We have three things, 1) truth, 2) humility, and 3) righteousness. This study is focusing on just what is humility.

Humility (noun):

• The state or quality of being humble; freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth; a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness; self-abasement; humbleness.
• An act of submission or courtesy.

Arrogance (noun):

• The act or habit of arrogating, or making undue claims in an overbearing manner; that species of pride which consists in exorbitant claims of rank, dignity, estimation, or power, or which exalts the worth or importance of the person to an undue degree; proud contempt of others; lordliness; haughtiness; self-assumption; presumption.
• Overbearing pride evidenced by a superior manner toward inferiors.
• Offensive display of superiority or self-importance; overbearing pride.

Things worthy of note. Arrogance is associated with self-importance. If I am to be humble, I have to have no importance of myself. How about that to chew on. Johnny Out.

New Year Goals - 2009

It is good to have goals... but this year, I am going to approach this a different way than in years past.

Goals:

• By Faith, I will be over 90% with my Quiet Times in 2009, with over 90% each month.
• By Faith, a family member will be baptized this year.
• By Faith, I will lose weight and be under 175 pounds by the end of July.
• By Faith, Joyville will be up and running by the end of January.
• By Faith, I will support my wife emotionally and lead her spiritually in 2009.
• By Faith, I will read a book a month (in addition to the Bible).
• By Faith, I will consider others and not think of myself.

And there you go, seven goals. I want to incorporate faith in my goals. With I put faith in the picture, I believe God will bless my heart.