I am reading Ezekiel through the First5 App paying special attention to the serious consequences associated with haughtiness. Ezekiel is laden with warnings about pride reminding us, the spirit of pride is cunning and insidious.
I have been in an interesting season, emerging out of a difficult few weeks. I was in the process of texting my youngest sister who subsequently offered sound godly wisdom, in love; however, for a brief moment, I wasn't in a position to receive it. I can’t really explain what happened but I felt a tiny ping inside, as if "who are you to advise me" ouch. I want to keep it real and remain transparent, by way of bringing this experience to the forefront.
I associate pride with an outward arrogance, but at this moment I was reminded; pride is also inward posture. Jesus spoke the harshest to the Scribes and Pharisees, in love because they would not listen, were not teachable, refused to gain understanding, and therefore rejected a relationship with Wisdom. Pride takes many forms, but spiritual pride is dangerous and can block us from receiving a word from God we desperately need.
When this happened, I immediately felt the conviction of the Holy Spirit. God in his love, cared enough about me, not to allow this to go unchecked. Although pride reared its ugly head, with the help of the Holy Spirit I was able to choose to hear Him, and resist the temptation to respond negatively or with indifference, ultimately accepting her wisdom as from Christ.
"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, " I Peter 5v6
I love this picture of a man with baggage and a narrow walkway. When we accepted Jesus Christ we accepted The Way. It is narrow but filled with the freedom to do the right thing and resist the wrong. This won't happen in our own strength but through the power of the Holy Spirit. The conviction when embraced will help us to experience God's mercy, grace, power, and peace.
Abba Father,
Thank you for Your mercy and patience with me. I bless you, God, for the blood of Jesus. I thank you, God, for Your forgiveness. Help me to keep Jesus enthroned on my heart, receiving Your word at every opportunity, and remain quick to respond in obedience to Your voice.
In Jesus Name, Amen