Today’s Tasting: Proverbs 25-26
Proverbs 25 begins the compilation of proverbs by Hezekiah’s men. While these proverbs were composed by Solomon, it was years later that they were copied by Hezekiah, king of Judah.
Both chapters from today’s readings focus a lot on humility, lying, and gossip.
Be not forward (self-assertive and boastfully ambitious) in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men; For better it is that it should be said to you, Come up here, than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, whose eyes have seen you.
A man who bears false witness against his neighbor is like a heavy sledgehammer and a sword and a sharp arrow.
For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention ceases.
Today’s Nourishment:
Throughout the book of Proverbs Solomon councils the reader to seek wisdom, gain knowledge, be fair in your dealings with others, honor God, respect your parents, love…just to name a few.
Chapters 25 & 26 do not deviate from this type of council. As I was reading these books and writing this post however…humility is what was prevalent in my mind so I want to talk about what Jesus taught us about humility.
Many are familiar with Jesus’ teachings of humility during the last supper when he washed the feet of his disciples (John 13:1-17); however, there are many other places throughout the New Testament where Jesus taught humility.
In the book of Mark, chapter 10, Jesus tells us “44 and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
We are told in John chapter 7 that “16 So Jesus told them, “My message is not my own; it comes from God who sent me. 17 Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own. 18 Those who speak for themselves want glory only for themselves, but a person who seeks to honor the one who sent him speaks truth, not lies.”
How easy would it have been for Jesus to take credit for all the miracles and teachings he had been doing? At this point in John’s recount, Jesus had fed the masses, walked on water, and done some healing. Now he is being questioned by the people as to whether he is the Messiah. At this point, most of us would probably have answered with something along the lines of “How can you question me? Have you not heard what I have done? Have you not witnessed the miracles I have performed?” But not Jesus, he humbled himself and gave all the credit to God.
I encourage you to follow the examples of Jesus and find ways to humble yourself in service to others and the next time something fantastic happens in your life, give credit where credit is due…to God.
Tomorrow’s Delight: Proverbs 27 – 29
Hugs & Blessings,
Monica
Great word. Father help us not to exalt ourselves but to humble ourselves before a holy God. May we always honor You Lord it’s not about us it’s all about you and what you want to do in others through us. May we be the true light of Jesus everyday everywhere!
Yes, Jesus, help us to stay humble and not exalt ourselves. Lord, it is you who gives us strength and ability to live, create, work, and live the Christ-life and the ins and outs of day-to-day.