Overcomer - Humility is a Choice

Fri. 10/2

Read 1 Peter 5:1-11

To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

5 In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,

“God opposes the proud

   but shows favor to the humble.”

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Peter writes about how important it is for a leader to exhibit humility. This was quite a revolutionary idea in both his day and ours.  Actually in New Testament times there was even less respect for the virtue of humility because it was new - having been introduced to the ancient world by Jesus.  Prior to the influence of Christ, humility had always been associated with weakness.  Notice how Peter like John quotes the Older Testament as back up material for the teachings of Jesus.

Memory Verse

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Ephesians 4:2 NIV

Reflect

Questions

Can leaders really get things done and still be humble?

Read the passage again slowly.  Notice the challenge to both the older and younger to embrace humility. Which one applies to you?

Where does pride tend to hide in your life these days?  What are you doing about it?

Prayer

Father in heaven, thank You for the reminder that it is You who has a mighty hand.  Help me to humble myself before You - to submit to Your authority over my life.  Help me to relate to everyone in my life - those who are older and wiser and those who are younger and less experienced - with a humble heart.  Amen.

Share

Gather some family friends together and read the passage. Then ask this question:

How healthy are the dynamics in our group/relationship between the generations?  How could things improve?

DFM Nation

Sunday Pastor Glenn will dive into more in depth teaching on how to overcome Greed with Generosity. Take a moment now to pray for and invite someone.