A Midst In Our Problem?

Sometimes we may focus on the reality of a problem being in our midst. However, there are times when we may need to note the midst in our problem. For example, the problem at the very center of “pride” is the same as at the center of “sin.” Look at the words again: “prIde” and “sIn”. That’s right, “I” is often at the midst of the problems associated with pride and sin and ultimately it is “I” that reaps the worst resulting consequences. If we want to destroy ourselves, all we need to do is refuse to be humble.

God, through Isaiah, declared…
“I WILL PUNISH the world for its evil, and THE WICKED FOR THEIR INIQUITY [SIN], I will PUT AN END TO THE POMP OF THE ARROGANT, and LAY LOW THE POMPOUS PRIDE of the ruthless.” ( Isaiah 13:11 ESV)

Pride can create problems between individuals. Pride can create a real challenge to the ability to accept God’s Will. Though an individual’s sense of arrogance and pride can create havoc in interpersonal relations on various levels, the worst devastation comes to self.

Solomon cautioned…
“(18) PRIDE GOES BEFORE DESTRUCTION, and A HAUGHTY SPIRIT BEFORE A FALL. (19) It is BETTER TO BE OF A LOWLY [humble] SPIRIT with the poor than to divide the spoil with the proud.” ( Proverbs 16:18-19 ESV)

Pride sets the stage or opens the door for destruction and falling. We may stumble and fall standing on the ground, but when we begin to elevate ourselves the stumbling and falling becomes more injurious. As this is the case physically, so it is also spiritually.

Solomon also declared…
“When PRIDE COMES, then COMES DISGRACE, but WITH THE HUMBLE IS WISDOM.” ( Proverbs 11:2 ESV)

Someone has said, “The man who bows the lowest in the presence of God stands the straightest in the presence of sin.” [source: list of sentence sermons”]

Keeping “I” in its place -- living in humIlIty and submIssIveness to the wIll of God -- provides the basis for standing tall regardless of what is going on around us. “I” is included doubly in “humIlIty” and “submIssIveness” and must humbly remain in God’s “wIll” as well. May we continue to humble ourselves, allowing the Lord to do the exalting ( James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:6) as we humbly live and serve to His glory.

Have a great day BOWING TO BE UPRIGHT BEFORE GOD!
Carl

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