1 Peter 5:5-9 – “In the same way, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. ⁶ And God will exalt you in due time, if you humble yourselves under his mighty hand ⁷ by casting all your cares on him because he cares for you. ⁸ Be sober and alert. Your enemy, the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl, looking for someone to devour. ⁹ Resist him, strong in your faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are enduring the same kinds of suffering.”

As I read, prayed, and pondered the Word of God today, I was once again blown away by it.  What a book we have.  You can read it hundreds of times and still find fresh revelation, new encouragement, and inspiration each time.  It is food that sustains and water that keeps us alive. It is THE WORD of GOD!  It is a way God speaks directly to us individually and collectively.

In 1 Peter 5:5-9, the Holy Spirit deposited in my heart, spirit, and mind something wonderful (to me).  Humility!  It is something we lose the moment we think we have it.  Humility is self-effacing. Humility is a requirement for promotion in the Kingdom of God.  Humility keeps everything in proper perspective.  It is Christ “in” us, “through” us, and “with” us.  God is always first, and love is our fuel.

Here’s what I heard in my spirit, heart, and mind as I read: Humility brings God’s presence.  God’s presence brings us the peace of God. The peace of God protects us.

I Peter 5:5 – “God is opposed (resists) the proud, but gives grace (divine favor and supernatural enablement to the humble.”  Humility is totally dependent on God.  Humility is unconcerned with credit or recognition. Humility has one objective – God’s will and purpose being enjoyed by others.

1 Peter 4:8-11 gives us understanding that love acts, love serves, and love loves. No passivity in love!  Think of how deeply we are loved. That alone is motivation enough to seek to live in obedience to God’s desire!  Putting off or aside everything that does not bring Him honor.  Loving with His love enables us to resist temptation and humbly serve Him and others. Being humble before God is easy (He is God).  Being humble before others is hard because they are flesh like us.  Therefore, we need to see Christ “in” them and serve Him “in” them.

Don’t pray for humility.  Be humble by seeing Him!  The only comparison we are to ever to make is JESUS!  How do we compare to Him?  Remember, He is “in” us, and the life we now live is His.  If we desire to live as Christians, let 1 Peter 3:10-12 be our guide.

• Action: verse 10-11.
• Motivation: verse 12.

Father, help us to live a life of humility so we can live a life of power!