Read Daniel 4
As you enter my office there are two things that are likely to grab your attention. First is the collection of instruments from all over the world hanging on my walls and on top of my bookshelves. They remind me of the people groups and missionaries who are seeking to raise up worshippers who will sing to Christ their king using the instruments of their culture.The second thing you’ll notice is the library of books on the shelves under those instruments. I confess I’m not an avid reader, but over time, it’s pretty remarkable the number of pages a person can consume. Most of these books I’ve read once, gleaned from their wisdom, and never cracked open again, but a few bear the distinct markings of books that have been well loved. Their spines are broken and worn, and when you pull them out, pages will fall to the ground.
One of those is a short book by C.J. Mahaney entitled, Humility. It seems to be a subject that I have yet to master, and it appears that I’m in good company. It’s not hard to understand, but it is hard to put into practice. At the end of the book he offers a list of suggestions for those of us who are seeking to weaken pride and cultivate humility. I have found several of these to be very helpful.
ALWAYS:
- Reflect on the wonder of the cross of Christ.
AS EACH DAY BEGINS:
- Begin each day by acknowledging your dependence upon God and your need for God.
- Begin your day expressing gratefulness to God.
- Practice the spiritual disciplines – prayer, study of God’s Word, worship. Do this consistently each day and at the day’s outset, if possible.
- Seize your commute time to memorize and mediate on Scripture.
- Cast your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.
AS EACH DAY ENDS:
- At the end of the day, transfer the glory to God
- Before going to sleep, receive this gift of sleep from God and acknowledge His purpose for sleep.
FOR SPECIAL FOCUS:
- Study the attributes of God.
- Study the doctrines of grace.
- Study the doctrine of sin.
- Play golf as much as possible.
- Laugh often, and laugh often at yourself.
THROUGHOUT YOUR DAYS AND WEEKS:
- Identify evidences of grace in others.
- Encourage and serve others each and every day.
- Invite and pursue correction.
- Respond humbly to trails.
* Humility by CJ Mahaney. p. 171-172
Written by: Daniel Creswell
