Day 2: Humility Before God
Opening Scripture: Proverbs 16:18
“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Introduction:
Beloved, today we gather to delve deeper into the lessons from the Tower of Babel. Yesterday, we examined the story itself and the pride that led humanity to defy God’s will. Today, our focus shifts to the antidote for pride: humility. We’ll explore how arrogance leads to failure, while humility aligns us with God’s purpose and fosters deeper relationships with Him and others.
The Dangers of Self-Reliance and Arrogance:
The Bible warns us repeatedly about the consequences of pride. Proverbs 16:18 reminds us that pride is not just an attitude—it is a pathway to destruction. The people of Babel embodied this truth. They relied on their own strength, their own wisdom, and their own plans. Their arrogance blinded them to the reality of their dependence on God.
But let us not look at them with judgment alone. Instead, let us examine ourselves. How often do we, in moments of success or ambition, forget our need for God? How often do we rely on our own abilities, ignoring the One who gave them to us?
Arrogance isolates us. It builds walls instead of bridges. It causes us to focus inward, on our own achievements, rather than outward, on God’s glory and the needs of others.
Examples of Humility in the Bible:
Contrast the builders of Babel with the ultimate example of humility—our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. In John 13, we see Jesus kneeling before His disciples, washing their feet. The King of kings and Lord of lords humbled Himself to perform the work of a servant.
Why? To teach us that greatness is not found in exalting ourselves but in serving others. Jesus’ humility was not weakness; it was strength under control. It was a deliberate choice to honor God and love His people.
Think also of Moses, who was described as “very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth” (Numbers 12:3). His humility allowed him to lead God’s people with wisdom and grace, relying not on his own strength but on God’s guidance.
How Humility Fosters Relationships:
Humility is the foundation of healthy relationships—with God and with others. When we are humble, we recognize our need for God’s grace and are more willing to extend that grace to others. Humility softens our hearts, making us teachable and open to correction.
In contrast, pride creates barriers. It resists accountability, clings to self-righteousness, and pushes others away.
Reflection/Application:
Now, let’s reflect on our own lives. Have there been moments when pride led to failure? Perhaps it was a strained relationship, a missed opportunity, or a season of spiritual dryness. Pride deceives us into thinking we are sufficient on our own, but it always leads to a fall.
This week, I challenge you to practice humility. Begin with prayer. Ask God to reveal areas of pride in your life and to cultivate a spirit of humility within you. Consider acts of service—helping a neighbor, encouraging a coworker, or volunteering your time for someone in need.
Remember, humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less. It is choosing to put God and others first.
Closing Prayer:
Gracious Father, we come before You humbled by Your greatness and mercy. Forgive us for the times we have let pride take root in our hearts. Teach us to walk in humility, following the example of Christ. Help us to serve others selflessly and to rely on You in all things. May our lives bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Go forth in humility this week, and watch how God works in and through your surrendered heart. Let us build not towers of pride but lives of service and love, firmly grounded in the grace of our Savior.
