How should Isaiah 10:15 influence our attitude towards accomplishments and abilities? Setting the Scene “Does an axe raise itself above the one who swings it? Or does a saw magnify itself over the one who wields it? As if a rod were to wield those who lift it, or a staff to raise what is not wood!” (Isaiah 10:15) Assyria boasted in its military success, forgetting it was only an instrument in God’s hand. The verse pushes us to see all human skill the same way—useful, yes, but never self-sufficient. The Core Lesson: Tools in the Master’s Hand • God is the real actor; we are the tools. • Our achievements are secondary causes. He is the primary Cause. • Any glory claimed by the “axe” robs honor from the Craftsman (cf. Psalm 115:1). Practical Attitudes toward Accomplishments • Gratitude, not entitlement – “Every good and perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). • Humble stewardship – “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). • Dependent effectiveness – “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Guardrails against Pride • Remember the Source – Philippians 2:13: “For it is God who works in you to will and to act…” • Redirect praise – Proverbs 27:2: “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” • Recount past deliverances – Deuteronomy 8:11-18 warns Israel never to say, “My power… has gained me this wealth.” Cultivating God-Honoring Confidence • Boldness is right when rooted in God’s enabling (Joshua 1:9). • Celebrate results as proof of His workmanship (Ephesians 2:10). • Speak ability the way Joseph did: “It is not in me; God will give…” (Genesis 41:16). Living it Out This Week • When complimented, quickly credit the Lord before your own skill. • Begin projects with a simple acknowledgment: “Father, use this tool today.” • Review recent successes, listing where God orchestrated resources, timing, or insight. • Seek to serve others with gifts so that “in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 4:11). |
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