In what ways can we demonstrate humility as seen in Psalm 86:1? Seeing Humility in Psalm 86:1 “Incline Your ear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.” • David openly confesses his “poor and needy” condition—not just material lack but utter spiritual dependence. • He pleads for God to “incline” His ear—yielding the initiative to the Lord instead of demanding on his own terms. • The verse pictures humility as an honest, low-postured approach that trusts God’s readiness to stoop down and help (cf. Psalm 113:5-6). Core Attitudes We Mirror 1. Acknowledge our need – Admit we have nothing outside of God (Matthew 5:3). – Bring every care rather than pretending self-sufficiency (1 Peter 5:7). 2. Submit to God’s authority – Yield plans, timing, and outcomes to Him (James 4:13-15). – Accept His Word as final and true, even when counter-cultural (Psalm 19:7-11). 3. Depend on His mercy – Approach not on merit but on His steadfast love (Psalm 130:3-4). – Keep short accounts with sin through confession (1 John 1:9). Practical Expressions of Humility Today • Daily prayer that begins with praise and confession before petitions. • Regular fasting or simplicity practices that remind the heart of dependence. • Listening more than speaking in conversations—reflecting the desire for God to “incline” His ear, we incline ours to others (Philippians 2:3-4). • Serving unnoticed: volunteering where no spotlight exists (Matthew 6:1-4). • Receiving correction quickly, thanking the one who points us back to truth (Proverbs 12:1). • Giving God public credit for successes, not subtly exalting self (1 Corinthians 4:7). Scriptures that Reinforce the Pattern • Isaiah 66:2—“‘This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word.’” • James 4:10—“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” • Psalm 51:17—“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart…” • Micah 6:8—“…what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Living Psalm 86:1 Every Day • Begin mornings declaring, “Lord, I am poor and needy; please bend down to listen.” • Let that confession shape attitudes at work, home, and church—quick to ask, quick to thank, slow to boast. • Expect God to answer, because His ear is already inclined toward the humble (Psalm 34:18). |
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