What steps can you take today to live out James 4:10's message? Scripture Spotlight “ ‘Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.’ ” (James 4:10) Why Humility Matters Today The God who breathed every word of Scripture promises to lift up those who willingly bow before Him. Taking this verse literally reshapes priorities: self is dethroned, Christ is enthroned, and God alone chooses the timing and manner of exaltation. Practical Steps for Today • Acknowledge His lordship the moment you wake up. Say aloud, “Jesus, You are Lord; my plans are Yours.” • Open your Bible before you open your newsfeed. Let His voice set the tone. • Confess any pride He exposes (1 John 1:9). Name it specifically: “I’ve been seeking applause…” • Serve someone anonymously—pay for a coworker’s lunch or clean a room at home without announcing it (Matthew 6:3–4). • Defer credit. When praised, redirect: “The Lord gave me the ability; praise Him” (Psalm 115:1). • Adopt a learner’s posture. Ask seasoned believers for counsel and act on it (Proverbs 11:14). • Speak less, listen more (James 1:19). Resist the urge to dominate conversations. • Fast from self-promotion on social media for a set period. Post Scripture or encouragement instead (Philippians 2:3). • Practice gratitude every hour on the hour; thank God for specific mercies (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • End your day remembering God’s faithfulness, not your achievements (Deuteronomy 8:11–14). Anchoring Your Steps in the Word • 1 Peter 5:6—“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may exalt you in due time.” • Luke 14:11—“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” • Philippians 2:5–8—Christ’s own descent models the path to true greatness. • Micah 6:8—Walking humbly is non-negotiable for those who know the Lord. • Proverbs 3:34—God “mocks the mockers but shows favor to the humble.” Expect God’s Response Live these steps and trust the literal promise: at His perfect moment, “He will exalt you.” That exaltation may look like deeper joy, stronger witness, or eternal reward—always for His glory and your good. |
    |