Humility

Isaiah 57:15
For thus says the High and Lofty One
Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy:
“I dwell in the high and holy place,
With him who has a contrite and humble spirit,
To revive the spirit of the humble,
And to revive the heart of the contrite ones."

"High, lofty, eternal, holy... these are the words that describe God. His ways are higher than our ways. His thoughts higher than ours (Isa. 55:8-9). Yet, in His wisdom and justice and mercy He has chosen to dwell among humanity, to inhabit an earthly tent (Eph. 2:22) and minister to us. His ministry is not to those who are high and lofty in the eyes of men, but those who are lowly and humble in the eyes of God (Psa. 51:17). To those who are broken in spirit, meek and tender, God revives the spirit and strengthens the heart (Matt. 5:3-10).

What does it mean to have a humble heart, a broken and contrite spirit? Humility is more than a right view of God. It's not simply an understanding of the hierarchy of holiness. It is not a posture of piety. Humility is a theme that one lives by. It is the rhythm of one's life. It is tone of one's relationship with God and the melody of one's interactions with others. Humility is harmony, all else is discord. It is extending preference to the most lowly, forgiveness and peace to the most despised, just as God has done for us. Humility is not only the words we choose, but the thoughts behind them.

Humility is not easy. Humility is resisting our flesh, denying our sinful nature. Humility is reversing our human thinking, choosing to live counter-intuitively. It takes sacrifice and courage to set aside the strongest instincts inside our hearts and heads. But His promise is to revive and strengthen those who strive to live according to His calling. It is possible by His Spirit.

Lord, humble me and give me a contrite spirit before You and others. Let my life be a beautiful melody to You and harmony with others. Keep me from discord and teach me to set aside myself. I want to honor You. Amen.