James 1
Humility is a topic discussed frequently in scripture, emphasizing that others cannot see Jesus in us unless we remain humble. Humility does not imply lack of confidence - on the contrary, believers have confidence. Their confidence, however, rests in Christ as we have access to the same power that raised Christ from the dead. This is similar to what John Piper sees as "The Happy Paradoxes of Christian Freedom and Slavery".
On the subject of paradoxes, it becomes interesting to look at the topic of mystery vs understanding - and Piper once again has a great post on this topic.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, what a great God You are that You love me and give me BOTH wisdom and mystery - causing me to draw near to You to depend on You for all things. I love You. I am not deserving of such love and blessing that comes from You. I worry...far too much. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. v9
Humility is a topic discussed frequently in scripture, emphasizing that others cannot see Jesus in us unless we remain humble. Humility does not imply lack of confidence - on the contrary, believers have confidence. Their confidence, however, rests in Christ as we have access to the same power that raised Christ from the dead. This is similar to what John Piper sees as "The Happy Paradoxes of Christian Freedom and Slavery".
On the subject of paradoxes, it becomes interesting to look at the topic of mystery vs understanding - and Piper once again has a great post on this topic.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, what a great God You are that You love me and give me BOTH wisdom and mystery - causing me to draw near to You to depend on You for all things. I love You. I am not deserving of such love and blessing that comes from You. I worry...far too much. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
