Above all else, guard your heart,
For it is the wellspring of life.
(Proverbs 4:23)
As I make plans for the upcoming year, it is my prayer that I do not advance myself to gain more power or recognition, and that I will not be fearful of venturing out of my comfort zone. Wherever I am and whatever I do, I can be and should be thankful, for God’s provision, and eager, to do my part to accomplish His assignment. In addition, I am mindful to embrace a growth mindset and accept new challenges with humility.
How does one guard his/her heart from the distortion of pride and fear? It requires a humble heart. Humility allows us to have the right relationship with God, with self, and with others. In humility,
- We worship the omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient God and are in awe with the work of His fingerprint.
- We treasure His grace and are grateful of our identity in Christ.
- We have the right motives to develop our strength. It is not about me, but his works through me to bless others.
- We accept our weaknesses and have the right attitude to make improvement. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12: 9).
- We are genuine learners who welcome feedback.
- We work with others to accomplish the shared ministry. We are complementary parts of God’s plan to further His Kingdom work.
- We distinguish oneness from sameness. There are many parts, but one body. Each part has different function, and all are equally valuable in God’s ministry.
A humble person has a healthy self-image, is teachable, and appreciates others’ strength. He/She does not assume to be a guru and is open to learn from others. Humility makes room for one to learn from criticism, mistakes, and confrontation, as well as gives courage for one to take risks in overcoming uncertainty. Think Biblically…
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
Micah 6:8
Grow In God's Grace 