The Cross is an Obstacle to Pride
Why be Humble? – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Daniel 5:18-31

Key Verse: Daniel 5:23

Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven. You had the goblets from his temple brought to you, and you and your nobles, your wives and your concubines drank wine from them. You praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or understand. But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways.

Yesterday’s entire devotional was telling the highlights of the story of two kings who couldn’t answer our question: Why be humble?  All they could focus on was their power and strength.  Things were going so well for them, they saw no need for humility.  In other words, they couldn’t stand their blessings.  The very things God did for them ended up destroying them because they didn’t humbly acknowledge the Most High God!

How do you operate your life when things are going well?  Do you rush out the door and forget to pray?  If you were honest, would you have to admit that it is only in troubled times that you faithfully talk to God?  Our story reminds us that it is very important to acknowledge God and give Him all the glory when things are going well in your life.  Daniel told the young king: “…you did not honor the God who holds in His hand your life and all your ways” (vs. 23).  Do you?

The cross is an obstacle to pride because it will teach us and lead us into a lifestyle that is always in God’s hands.  We need Him even on the days when we can’t sense or feel a desperate need for Him.  He holds all the events of our lives in His hands—we must daily acknowledge that and humbly realize He deserves time and attention each and every day!

Father, forgive me when, by my behavior, I act like I don’t  need you!  I fall before you today in desperate need of you!  In Jesus’ name, amen.