“Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.” — Proverbs 18:12 NIV
We live in a world where people want others to honor them. Yet, many aren’t conscious that before the reaping of a harvest, a seed has to be sown. In other words, before others will honor you, your humility should be evident.
The preacher was precise when he said, “humility comes before honor”; because he knows it’s possible to desire honor without being humble. In fact, in such situations, that honor sought usually turns to pride and eventually a fall. Let’s check Nebuchadnezzar’s life?
God used this man to build a mighty kingdom called Babylon. However, a time came when his heart became proud. So he decided to take glory for what God has used him to build. In no time, a voice from heaven came to judge what he had done. He got driven away from people and ate grass like an ox for seven years, all because God wanted to teach him humility (Daniel 4:29-34).
Later, Nebuchadnezzar’s mental sanity got restored. However, at that time, he had learned humility from the Lord in an uncomfortable way. He became greater than before but always lived acknowledging God in all his ways (Daniel 4:35-37).
God never created us to glorify ourselves in anything earthly. Your worth is not in how many things you own or how much money is in your bank account. Every earthly thing is a tool that can be used to maximize kingdom influence. Choose to humble yourself before God by casting your care upon him — the care about what you have, don’t have or even need. He’s able to supply all those needs. Only be mindful of fulfilling kingdom assignments. He’ll make people honor you with you demanding it from them.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer
Oh, Jesus, I refuse to take glory for whatever you’ve given me for my enjoyment and Your kingdom’s impact. I choose to be humble before You while always giving credit to grace for who I am in Christ. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD // 2022 – 157