THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD - PART 486

James 4:10 in the Bible speaks about humbling ourselves before the Lord. Indeed, the scripture states: Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and He shall lift you up. Other Biblical translations use different language to make the same point. In one edition the verse states: 'Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord and He will exalt you" Therefore, be blessed not in and of yourself but be blessed because you have humbled yourself before Jesus -- in His presence -- in the "presence of the Lord."

Yes, the message is to humble yourself before God Almighty who loved us so much that He would become flesh and died for us. This salvation message has not changed throughout time. Even in the Old Testament God said, "if my people who are called by My Name shall humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and forgive their sin ... " (2 Chronicles 7:14)

In the parable found in Luke 18:9-14 Jesus referred to those who think themselves righteous, treating others with contempt that "two men went up into the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself prays unto God saying: "God I thank you that I am not like other men - extortioners, unjust, adulterers or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and I pay tithes." But the tax collector, standing off in the distance could not even lift his eyes to heaven. Instead he beat his breast saying, "God be merciful to me a sinner."

Why do we need to be humble? Because as the scriptures repeatedly state, "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." Not one of us has achieved salvation through our own works or deeds. But the good news is that we are His workmanship -- created in Christ Jesus for good works -- which God prepared beforehand that we should walk with Him. (Ephesians 2:10)

We are saved according to His great mercy. It is He who has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading kept in heaven for you, who by God`s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

Jesus said "truly I say unto you that unless you turn and become like children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.`(Matthew 18:3-4)

Therefore, as Jesus said, "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls." Trust Jesus today. Ask Jesus for His will for your life. You will never be disappointed!

Stand in His offering plate.