James 4:6-10 (NLT)
But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say, “God opposes the proud but favors the humble.” So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.
From your time in recovery (whether you are just beginning the journey or are a life-long seeker), you’re aware most stories end tragically. A worst case scenario is overdose, death, or suicide. Most simply relapse back into the cycle of addiction, go homeless, or suffer with severe depression. A few, however, manage to truly change and, with the help of Jesus, come to understand the full extent of His love, mercy, and forgiveness. These are the stories I enjoy hearing and sharing the most.
Several of the guys who have come through the program failed to finish and are thus welcomed back a second time. Among those was Joel. The first time around, Joel knew all the right answers and did what he had to get by. The result: he left early, wrestling with his pride and its deceiving him into believing he was ready for the world. The second time Joel walked through the Arms of Mercy’s doors was a completely different story. Refusing to fall prey to pride, he returned like the prodigal son, humbled by a compassionate God and a cruel world. It was the genuine humility of a broken man. Not someone expending energy to hide things. He read about, was shown, and lived in the forgiveness of Jesus. This Jesus who will forgive you as many times as necessary. This Jesus who shows mercy, not judgment, to us in our time of weakness. This Jesus who loves you just as you are- but also loves you too much to let you stay that way.
The most beautiful thing about these three things is that they’re free through Jesus. Or rather, the price has already been paid. When sin demanded a death, Jesus willing laid his life down for you and your recovery. When blood had to be shed, Jesus stepped up and removed his divine robe. When a sacrifice was required, he stretched out his arms and refused to hide or run away. Three days later, the victory was won. Now all we must do is open our hands and hearts.
Discussion Questions:
1. In your own words, define humility.
2. Is humility part of your relationship with Jesus? Others?
3. What are some things you can do today to make you a more humble person?
