The Conflict of Pride and Humility--part 2

“But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To Him be the the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 5:10-11

From beginning to end the Bible emphasizes the systemic problem of humanity—pride. This aspect of our character causes us to see ourselves as victims, as ill treated, offended, and undeserving of the suffering and heartache in our lives. The destruction such attitudes bring about ultimately causes even greater misery in our lives. How different is God’s view of the difficulties of this life; His purpose always has the prosperity of our soul and the flourishing of our relationship with Him in mind. Extremely rare would be the person who leans hard on God without ever knowing hardship. But, a great dependency on God brings vitality to our souls and with our souls strong and settled all of life becomes brighter and more beautiful regardless of our circumstances.

Please plan to join our Ladies Bible Study this Thursday morning at 9:30 either in person or on Livestream at discoverybaptist.org as we discuss this very important topic of God’s wonderful sovereignty for our good and His glory.

The Conflict of Pride and Humility

“…and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’” 1 Peter 5:5b

How easily we overlook two prominent sins in our lives—worry and pride. Yet, as with all sin, we suffer the consequences of our unbelief concerning what God clearly says in His Word—diminished flourishing. Last week during Ladies Bible Study we discussed in depth worry in contrast to trust. This week we will think through pride as opposed to humility.

Consider these thoughts from David Guzik. “Grace and pride are eternal enemies. Pride demands that God bless me in light of what I think I deserve. Grace will only deal with me on the basis what is in God (love), not on the basis of anything in me.”

“Pride is one of the most detestable of sins; yet does it find lodgment in earnest souls, though we often speak of it by some lighter name. We call it - independence, self-reliance. We do not always discern it in the hurt feeling, which retires into itself, and nurses its sorrows in a sulk . . . We are proud of our humility, vain of our meekness; and, putting on the saintliest look, we wonder whether all around are not admiring us for our lowliness.” (Meyer)

I am looking forward to seeing you this Thursday morning for a great time of encouragement as we begin on page 57 of our study books (Lesson 9). Last week some of the ladies had a hard time hearing the discussion, so we will be reconfiguring our seating arrangement to try to improve that situation. If you would like to bring some goodies to go with our coffee, that would be great.

Don’t forget that the Mom’s Class is starting this coming Monday and Ruth Rogers could use a couple of ladies who would like to help with the children and babies from 10 to 11 as an encouragement to the young moms. This is a once a month event. Let me or Ruth know if you would be available.

The Fear That Ends All Fear

Psa 34:4-9  I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.

This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.

Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!

Refreshment and encouragement arrive again this Thursday morning at 9:30 when all ladies are welcome to come together to behold the wonder of God and His Word.

All summer I have been wanting to address the subject of fear/worry with you, not only for your benefit, but also for mine. Excitement is building as I work on our discussion for this week.

We will be Livestreaming for ladies that cannot be with us. And there will be childcare for your little ones.

Two announcements—-

The mother’s of young children will be meeting once a month from 10 to 11 on Monday mornings and need some older ladies to care for their children. If you would be interested in encouraging the young moms this way, please let me know.

Also, there will be a baby shower for little Nora Coots at Aiko Corkery’s home on Fox Island at 5 in the afternoon.