God Has Not Forgotten You: When Life Is Turned Upside Downনমুনা

Turning Aside Pride

Have you heard the biblical story of the Good Samaritan? In that story, the Samaritan, unlike others who had opportunity, demonstrated compassion for a man who had become the victim of a vicious attack by robbers. The Good Samaritan bandaged up the man’s wounds, brought him to an inn, and took care of him (see Luke 10:30-35). But what about the man he helped? What if this man, who had been left for dead, refused the help of the Good Samaritan because of pride? Where might his pride have left him? Alone? Dying on the side of the road? Wouldn’t he have missed out on this provision from God?

We all experience difficult times. They’re a part of life. And when those times come, and we’re hurting, there are people who will come alongside us to help in any way possible to ease the pain. It is God at work through the kindness and generosity of others—like the Good Samaritan. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father” (James 1:17). Still, you might be thinking, “But I don’t want people to think I’m poor! I had a job before all of this!” Or, “I don’t want people feeling sorry for me or think that I’m weak!” Though this kind of pride is natural, it is wrong–“for God gives special blessings to those who are humble, but sets himself against those who are proud” (1 Peter 5:5TLB).

Don’t allow pride to keep you from accepting kindness from others. That’s what the Christian community is all about—helping, encouraging, and building up one another. So turn aside pride today. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you” (James 4:10).

Taking back your life

1. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” In what ways have people encouraged you or built you up during this difficult time?
2. If you have received help from others with a bitter heart because of pride, ask God’s forgiveness. Then ask Him to give you a humble heart and an attitude of gratitude for the wonderful ways in which He has met your needs through the generosity of others.
3. Make a special effort today to tell someone “thank you” when they share God’s gift of kindness and goodwill with you. You can say it to the friend who calls to check on you, the delivery person who delivered the hot meal you ordered, the people who come by to drop off groceries, or the friends who have expressed their condolences. It’s a great way to bless them as they seek to bless you.