I’ve heard it said, do not use your Bible as a pair of binoculars, whereas to look at other people, but rather use it as a mirror, whereas to look at yourself. It is so easy to position oneself, appearing as God’s anointed, to help others grow (so we think), and yet, completely ignore those things that we need to look at in ourselves.
The Bible classifies such an attitude as ‘pride’ – and by the way, something the Lord hates. The Bible says, “a proud look [that attitude that makes one overestimate oneself and discount and look down on others] the Lord hates” (Proverbs 6:17).
And may I add, the Bible also says that such an attitude, the Lord declares war on. If only we, as God’s church, would get this. It seems we are not only quick to take notice of those who are outside the church, but such a posture is running rampant inside the church as well.
The Bible tells us that we are to be humble, to think not only of others more important than ourselves, but to look at ourselves first.
My friends, the way up in God’s kingdom is to go low in ours. This means we need to humble ourselves before God, and before people.
There is a myth that circumstances can humble a person. The truth is, circumstances can humiliate you, but the only thing that can humble you is you.