May 10th: Embrace Humility

By Dennis Johnston

Scripture:

Saul replied, “But I’m only from the tribe of Benjamin, the smallest tribe in Israel, and my family is the least important of all the families of that tribe! Why are you talking like this to me?” 1 Samuel 9:21

Observation:

Just before this the people demanded a king that would lead them - just like the other nations. They repeated their cry for a human king - thus rejecting God who had went before them and fought their battles. God grants their request and we pick it up with a conversation between Samuel and Saul. God has already spoken to Samuel and instructed him to anoint Saul as the king of Israel. Saul was the hope of the people of Israel to win military victories over their enemies (chapter 8).

Application:

Saul was head and shoulders above the rest - literally (1 Samuel 10:23). When Saul is speaking to Samuel he expresses humility (a modest opinion of one’s self) as he reminds him who he is and where he comes from. This is a key character trait for all Christ-followers that was modeled by Jesus (Philippians 2:2-11).  God instructs me to:

1.  Regard others as more important than myself

2.  Look out for the interest of others

Obedience to God helps me to embrace humility as I surrender to His will.  It will unite me with others for His purpose as I become a fully devoted follower of Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

God - I need to embrace humility the same way Jesus did as he humbled Himself to your will on a daily basis.  Give me opportunities today to “seek out” the interest of others so you will be glorified.  Give me a heart for humility that seeks to meet the needs of others. I thank You for empowering me to do Your will.