An Encouraging Word

I am greatly encouraged by this verse from 1 Peter 5, as it reminds me that the Lord has a plan for all people, places, and things, and that – at the right time (according to His schedule, and not mine) – He will act.

Of course, there are conditions to this promise – one of them being a life surrendered to the Lord, characterized by great humility in His presence. Still, I’ve wondered, what does humility before God really mean?

I don’t think it means having a low opinions of ourselves (thinking negatively); after all, the Lord holds a high view of us, so why should we think less of ourselves than the Creator of the universe does?

However, I also don’t think it means having an inflated sense of self either. Call it what you want – selfishness, pride, narcissism – they all represent varying points on a continuum of emotional and spiritual immaturity that represents the very opposite of humility.

No, my view is that the Lord simply desires us to have a correct and biblical appreciation for who He is, and a greater understanding of our identity in light of this truth. Put another way, God is God, and I am not. And with all due respect to the queen of England, there is only one Sovereign – and He answers to the name “Alpha and Omega.” Indeed, His dominion never ends!

So, if He is sovereign, then I obviously am not. Sounds like an obvious truth, right? Then why do I sometimes go about my life assuming that I know what is best, and that I have all the answers?

Keeping these questions in mind, the passage from 1 Peter 5 makes more sense (to me, anyway) now. When we recognize and respect God for who He is and trust in His sovereignty, we can believe that it’s simply a matter of time before He has fulfilled all that He has promised to us – whether it be on this side of eternity or the other.

I hope that this verse encourages you in some way. 💛