“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

Series: Pursuing Humility

Devotional: 7 of 7

As you and I continue to pursue the virtue of humility in daily life, the world around us is likely to take notice of the inner transformation happening in our souls. 

Why? Because true humility rarely goes unnoticed by a watching world. Now some will throw stones, and others will heap praise. 

To those who throw stones, the humble in spirit will follow the example of Jesus when He said, "But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also." (Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭39‬ ‭NRSV‬‬)

On the other hand, when praise does come our way, you and I have two choices. Like a piece of wood or a lump of coal, we can absorb the Light of Christ or choose to reflect His light as a mirror or the human eye does.

A soul that has been transformed in the crucible of humility is no longer capable of absorbing God's glory for its own gain. It has been formed by the words of Jesus when He said, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." ‭‭(Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭16‬ ‭NRSV‬‬ emphasis added)

And that brings us to our seventh and final observation about humility. 

Observation #7: A humble person is like a flashlight which is always willing to reflect the light of Christ on others - on their needs, accomplishments, and the unique ways God has created them in His image. 

As we close out this series on pursuing humility, it seems only fitting that we might reflect on the words of William Law - words that were penned nearly three hundred years ago but are still just as relevant today. 

"Let every day... be a day of humility. Condescend to all the weakness and infirmities of your fellow creatures, cover their frailties, love their excellencies, encourage their prosperities, compassionate their distress, receive their friendship, be a servant of servants, and condescend to the lowest offices to the lowest of mankind." (William Law, 1686-1761)

Take a minute to reread each of his words, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal to you one or two areas of potential growth. 

"Cover their frailties? Encourage their prosperities?" Both seem to jump off the page for me, but what about you?

OnThe3rdDay Devotionals

Devotionals that illustrate Biblical principles in a simple and short format that can be applied to your everyday life.

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