For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

– Romans 12:3

The Message version of this verse says, “Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it’s important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you. The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him.”

What we contribute to our church has no basis for a superior attitude or self-righteousness but with humility. Proverbs 15:33 states “humility comes before honor”. Jesus states this principle in Luke 14:10-11 as he noticed guests picking the places of honor at the table.

Even David, a man after God’s own heart, was taught this lesson. In his love and adoration for God, he suggests that he should build a house for God. Nathan prays to God about this and God says, “No, not you, but my house will be built from your family” (A reference to the future Solomon’s temple). But then He gives David the promise that He will establish His kingdom from David’s family, forever and ever. So, Nathan says not to follow your heart, but follow God’s heart.

That’s where sober judgement comes in. Is my evaluation of myself too high? Too low? We need to evaluate ourselves realistically and humbly, recognizing that all gifts come from God.

Prayer:

Dear Father, teach me to humbly come before You, seeking Your will for my service, knowing that all gifts come from You.

Daily Reading: 1 Corinthians 11

– Contributed by Vickie Petersen