Favor for the Humble

   “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows FAVOR to the humble.’” 1 Peter 5:5 NIV

   When I woke up feeling a bit ill one morning, I immediately sought the Lord.  I sensed in my spirit that mine was not just a physical problem, but a spiritual one.  The Holy Spirit convicted me about how poorly I handled a delicate matter the day before.  Instead of demonstrating humility and respect, I had acted stubbornly and arrogantly.  I repented at once, and the heaviness lifted off of me, and I instantly felt better.

   Scripture instructs us:  “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows FAVOR to the humble.’” (1 Peter 5:5 NIV)  When we sense the absence of God’s favor in our lives and circumstances, it could be that we are not walking in humility toward others.  In that case, the Lord could be “opposing” us, and withholding His blessing and peace.

   Psalm 37:11 (NASB) says: “The humble will inherit the land and will delight themselves in abundant prosperity.”  The Bible defines “abundant prosperity” as “unmixed blessedness.”  Think about that.  When we walk humbly before God and in our relationships, we will experience the highest level of divine blessings in our lives.

   The Lord showed me that He doesn’t expect me to be perfect, but He does expect me to be humble.  His Word says, “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.” (Psalm 25:9 NIV)  God richly rewards humble people because they are constantly asking for His direction and help, and He is able to teach them how to receive His best in every area of their lives.  Today, I encourage you to humble yourself before the Lord, and watch what He will do in you, through you, and for you!

   Lord, please help me to enter into a deeper level of humility, so that I can enter into a higher level of divine favor.  Teach me how to humble myself under Your mighty hand, so that You may exalt me at the proper time. (1 Peter 6:7 ESV)  Empower me by Your Spirit to walk in love and compassion in all of my relationships.  Thank You that as I clothe myself with godly humility, I will experience the abundant prosperity and unmixed blessedness that You promise in Your Word!

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