Humility

July 3, 2015

Scripture 

2 Kings 22: 11, 18-20; Proverbs 18: 12; James 4: 6-10

When the king heard what was written in the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes in despair.

“But go to the king of Judah who sent you to seek the LORD and tell him: ‘This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says concerning the message you have just heard: You were sorry and humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I said against this city and its people—that this land would be cursed and become desolate. You tore your clothing in despair and wept before me in repentance. And I have indeed heard you, says the LORD. So I will not send the promised disaster until after you have died and been buried in peace. You will not see the disaster I am going to bring on this city.’” So they took her message back to the king. (NLT)

Haughtiness goes before destruction; humility precedes honor. ( NLT)

Observation

1. God's word brought humility

When we use the word of God as a plumb line, we see our failures.

2. Humility precedes honor

Humility- to lower in condition, importance, or dignity; abase.

Honor- to hold in honor or high respect; revere: to honor one's parents.

3. God fights against the proud but gives grace to the humble.

And he gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. (James 4:6-10 NLT)

A. This passage is similar to Josiah's experience.  When he heard the word of God there were tears, cleansing, sorrow, and grief.  Josiah was a model for what true humility and repentance is suppose to be like.

4. Humble myself before God

I do not want God to have to humble me.

5. Draw near to God.

6. Cleanse myself

God promises to:

A.  Give me grace

B. Lift me up in honor

Application

1. Truly repent over my sins.

Sin should bring grief 

2. Humble myself before God

Humility is acknowledging my need of God

3. Trust him for the results 

He promises to give me grace and honor

Prayer

I humble myself before you.  I acknowledge my need of you.