Do you struggle with pride? I already know the answer to that question. But your response to that question will determine how prideful you are.
As ministers, we are in the public eye. When you’re in the public eye, it’s easy to think highly of yourself, especially when compliments are flowing.
Consider this verse:
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you” (James 4:10).
As God increases our public platforms, I believe we need to be continually humbling ourselves before Him. The greater the platform, the greater humility is needed to handle the praise of man.
How do you humble yourself? Ask (what I like the call) the WWLT questions (bracelet, anyone?):
- When was the last time I had a conversation about someone else, with no reference to my own accomplishments?
- When was the last time I spent an hour in private worship?
- When was the last time I thanked God for His indescribable grace and for saving ‘a wretch like me’?
- When was the last time I confessed my sins to a trusted friend?
- When was the last time I personally responded to an altar call?
- When was the last time I visited a sick person in the hospital just to be with them?
- When was the last time I blessed someone financially?
- When was the last time I prayed for someone else, instead of being consumed by my own needs?
- When was the last time I was moved to tears while reading Scripture?
- When was the last time I listened to my spouse with undivided attention?
- When was the last time I personally served someone else’s ministry?
- When was the last time I shared the Gospel with a non-Christian?
- When was the last time I talked about Jesus with my Christian friends?
O God, make me a humble servant of your glory, honor, and fame.
DS