Foundations Week 12, Day 1

Scripture Read:  Deuteronomy 8 - 9
Title: God Reminds Israel to Remain Humble... It is not because of your righteousness
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H.E.A.R. Entry
(H) Highlight verse:  "Beware lest you say in your heart, 'My power and the might of my hand have gotten me wealth.'"  Deut. 8:17

(E) Explain:  Moses continues his speech and now reminds the Israelites that they need to remain humble.  Multiple times he reminds them that they should not become prideful by thinking in their hearts that the reason why the have had military and financial success up to this point was because of their might, intellect, or righteousness.  No, it was God who went before them in the desert, it was God who gave the wealth, and it was God who gave them victory over their enemies.  Moses tells them to keep this truth in perspective.  Moses once again warns the people against idolatry.  He says, in 8:19 in regards to worshiping false gods, "I solemnly warn you today that you shall surely perish." Moses continues his motif, "Give God credit and remain faithful and obedient."

(A) Application:   I have met people who have a hard time being humble.  They like to brag, seek glory and want credit for everything successful that has happened in their lives.  It's hard to talk to these individuals because of their pride.  Actually, to me, they are just plain annoying (but I still love them).  The Bible is specific in stating that God's people must remain humble.  We must know and acknowledge our position before God Almighty.  In fact we are told all that we have and all our abilities were given to us by God.  The Apostle Paul tells us time and again that the salvation we received from Jesus Christ is not according to anything we have done.  God didn't choose you to be his child because he saw potential in you and thought you had some real strengths, talents and abilities that he could use in helping advance his Kingdom purpose.  No, God gave you your strength, talent and ability because He is a great God who loves His children.  He gave you all you have so you can glorify Him and build up the Body of Christ for His purpose.  It is because of God's grace, mercy, love, and faithfulness that you have life, salvation and the ability to do what you do.  So, let us remain humble in the presence of God and give Him the due credit in our lives

(R) Respond: LORD, keep me humble.  I do not want to be prideful or self-serving.  I acknowledge that I can do nothing worthwhile for your Kingdom without You.  LORD, keep me close to You, so I may walk this life in complete dependence of You.