In an article I read awhile back (unable to find the author to give credit) It stated that in expressing sinful pride, we often want to exalt ourselves, thinking of ourselves more highly than we ought and higher than others. That is the way of the world, but is not the way of the Kingdom of God. As the Apostle Peter writes (one who knows about pride and humility): "Clothe yourselves all of you, with humility toward one another, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble! Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you." 1 Peter 5:5b-6
Jesus was the ultimate example of what it means to be humble. And in His resurrection and exaltation our rescue from sin, death and hell was accomplished. Now our lives centered in Christ Jesus are shaped by His exaltation and through God's grace and forgiveness we are able to respond in love and in humble service to others. The Apostle Paul writes in Philippians 2:3-4, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each look not only to his own interests, but also of others.." God saw us in our lowly estate and in love chose to lift us up and rescue us from our enemies and condemned condition. Now we in thanksgiving are to faithfully follow Him in humble gratitude. Why? Because in Him we live, and move, and have our our purpose! It is not about us and who we want to be dear saints. No, it is all about being the person God created and wants you and me to be. To Him alone be all glory, honor, and praise!! Pastor McCarty