How can we apply the lesson of humility from Ezekiel 32:13 today? Setting the scene Egypt boasted in its power, wealth, and self-sufficiency. Through Ezekiel, the LORD promised to strip that pride away. God’s judgment would be so thorough that even the cattle beside the Nile—symbols of prosperity—would vanish, and the once-busy waters would lie undisturbed. What Ezekiel 32:13 says “I will destroy all its cattle beside abundant waters; no human foot will muddy them again, nor will the hooves of cattle muddy them.” Why this verse calls us to humility • God alone grants and withdraws prosperity; nothing we own or achieve is self-made. • When He removes what propped up Egypt’s pride, the land grows silent—no trampling feet, no stirring hooves. Pride ends in stillness and loss. • The judgment emphasizes God’s right to humble nations and individuals who exalt themselves (cf. Proverbs 16:18; Daniel 4:37). Practical steps to walk in humility today • Acknowledge God in daily success – Begin and end tasks with thanks, recognizing Him as the source (James 1:17). • Hold resources with open hands – Treat possessions, savings, and influence as stewardship, not entitlement (1 Corinthians 4:7). • Serve quietly – Look for unnoticed ways to bless others: clearing a coworker’s task list, anonymous generosity, silent intercession (Matthew 6:3-4). • Welcome accountability – Invite trusted believers to speak into decisions and attitudes (Proverbs 27:6). • Repent quickly – When pride surfaces, confess immediately, asking the Spirit to renew a contrite heart (Psalm 51:17). • Celebrate others’ victories – Rejoice when someone else is honored or promoted, resisting envy (Romans 12:15). • Keep eternity in view – Remember Egypt’s sudden stillness; worldly applause fades, but “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). Encouragement from other Scriptures • “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). • “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:11). • “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). Closing thoughts Ezekiel 32:13 paints stark silence where pride once thundered. Let that image steer us toward quiet dependence on the LORD. When we deliberately humble ourselves, we sidestep the fall Egypt experienced and position our lives for His enduring grace and peace. |
    |