April 26 – The Grace of Humility

For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. – Isaiah 57:15, KJV

The grace of humility must be carefully cultivated by everyone who bears the name of Christ. Self-exaltation has no place in the work of God. Those who would be co-laborers with the Lord of hosts must daily crucify self and abandon worldly ambition. They must be patient, gentle, full of mercy and kindness toward all around them.

True humility is a clear sign that we have beheld God and are united with Jesus Christ. Unless we are meek and lowly in heart, we cannot truly grasp the character of God. A person may think they are serving God faithfully—their talent, knowledge, eloquence, or zeal may impress and inspire admiration from those who judge by outward appearance—but unless these qualities are humbly surrendered to God, they are counted as nothing in His sight. He sees them as unprofitable servants.

God has long waited for His people to reflect genuine humility so that He may pour out rich blessings upon them. Those who offer Him the sacrifice of a broken heart and contrite spirit will be hidden in the cleft of the Rock. They will behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. And as they gaze upon Jesus, the all-sufficient sacrifice, their lips will be filled with the highest praise. The more clearly they see the beauty of Christ’s character, the more deeply they will feel their own unworthiness. Their pride melts away in the presence of His glory.

In such hearts, there is no room for reckless pride or self-glorification. Self is forgotten, lost in the awareness of God's majesty and their own great need.

Those who truly value the holy and joyful walk with God—who recognize the strength that comes from knowing Him—will stop at nothing to behold His face. They will cherish a spirit that trembles at His Word, and in every place, under every circumstance, their prayer will be the same: “Lord, let me see Your glory.”

This is the path to true greatness—not in lifting oneself up, but in bowing low before the One who inhabits eternity and yet walks with the humble of heart.