The Humility Way By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: James 4:6 – "But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'”
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Introduction
In a world overflowing with pride, arrogance, and self-exaltation, the humility way is often seen as foolish and weak. Yet, it is this very way that God provides for His people to walk in His light and be kept safe. The humility way is not about being humiliated but about surrendering to God’s divine will, acknowledging our dependency on Him, and embracing the strength that comes from living in obedience. It is a way that shields us from the destructive forces of pride, which bring death, separation from God, and spiritual stagnation. This message explores the profound blessings of walking in humility and the consequences of rejecting this divine path.
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Humility in a Proud Generation
Proverbs 16:18 – "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."
We live in a generation consumed by pride, where people strive for self-glorification and validation from others. Pride has become the foundation of rebellion against God, manifesting in arrogance, vanity, and spiritual blindness. The humility way, however, calls us to reject these worldly pursuits and embrace the will of God. This path requires us to acknowledge our dependence on Him and submit to His direction.
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The Dangers of Pride
Proverbs 29:23 – "Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor."
Pride, though attractive to the carnal man, is deceitful and leads to destruction. It blinds individuals to the truth of God, causing them to rely on their own strength, wealth, or wisdom. Many who claim to follow God have succumbed to pride, building their lives on unstable foundations. These foundations will crumble when tested by God’s wrath. The humility way offers a firm foundation built on God’s eternal truth and light.
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Walking in the Humility Way
Micah 6:8 – "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
The humility way is a path of obedience, surrender, and thanksgiving. It is about keeping our vision fixed on God and resisting the temptation to follow worldly desires. Walking in humility means accepting God’s correction and direction with gratitude, knowing that He leads us in the path of life. It is in humility that we find true strength, peace, and the ability to withstand trials.
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God’s Wrath Against Pride
Isaiah 2:12 – "The Lord Almighty has a day in store for all the proud and lofty, for all that is exalted (and they will be humbled)."
God despises pride and has declared His wrath against those who exalt themselves above Him. In this generation, we see God’s judgment manifested in the instability of governments, economies, and religious institutions. These serve as reminders that trusting in worldly systems instead of God leads to ruin. God is calling His people to humble themselves and return to Him, for only in humility can we stand firm during the storms of life.
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The Blessings of Humility
1 Peter 5:6 – "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time."
Those who walk in humility experience the blessings of God’s provision, guidance, and protection. Humility opens the door for God’s grace, enabling us to receive His miracles of mercy even in times of upheaval. It is through humility that we remain steadfast, unshaken by the troubles of this world, and secure in God’s love.
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Summary
The humility way is God’s gift to His people, providing a path of obedience, protection, and blessing. In contrast, pride leads to destruction and separation from God. As believers, we are called to reject pride and embrace humility, trusting in God’s wisdom and guidance.
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Conclusion
The humility way is not a path of weakness but a journey of strength through reliance on God. By walking in humility, we align ourselves with God’s will and receive His abundant grace. Let us, therefore, reject the pride that seeks to destroy us and choose the humility way that leads to eternal life.
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Call to Action
Examine your heart and identify areas where pride may have taken root. Surrender those areas to God and ask Him to guide you in the humility way. Make a commitment to seek His will daily, obey His Word, and give thanks for His correction and direction.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Philippians 2:3 – "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."
Be encouraged to walk in humility, knowing that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. As you trust in Him and follow His ways, you will be strengthened, guided, and kept by His unfailing love. Stay steadfast in the humility way, for it is the path of true victory and everlasting peace.
