Humility

Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:5-7 (NKJV)

I fear the Lord too much to pray for humility--but, I still need a large dose of Godly humility in order to live right. Humility is a difficult virtue to "grab-a-hold-of." Perhaps it is one of those Godly traits better obtained by resting in the grace of God rather than grasped through the effort of the will. What does the effort of the will gain you? Odds favor a massive injection of false humility as Godly humility remains elusive, and yet the call remains: "Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time."

How elusive is this much needed virtue? Years ago, Dr. Linfield Crowder talked about the pathology of pride associated with the prayer movement. Here's the kicker: Intercessory prayer groups are often incubators for religious pride. Individuals start feeling spiritually superior, because they are dedicated to prayer, which happens to be a much revered spiritual discipline within the rank and file of the Church. The pride kicks in when the prayer warriors compare their dedication to the seeming lack of dedication in others and they pass judgment--blinded by pride--not really knowing the prayer life of others--but, feeling superior by comparison.

No wonder Jesus told us to pray sequestered away in a prayer closet...to fast without letting others know. Only in the complicated psyche of a human would you find a spiritual discipline leading to the sin of pride. Maybe--just maybe, it is the realization that we are susceptible to such a compromise that leads us down the path of true humility. Can you be a prayer warrior and consider others as better than yourself? It is a challenge, but might be the beginning of true contrition and a step towards humility. May we all learn how to wear the clothes of humility as we extend grace to others.

Prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, may I not be led into temptation, even in my pursuit of spiritual treasure. Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. I desire to grow in you--not for the purpose of being more spiritual than others, but that I might keep You at the center of my desires. May You increase so that I am forced to become less of a distraction to myself. Continue to save me from me and mold this son into the image of Your only begotten. Amen"