It’s Our Choice: Pray or Be Prey

by Karen Umaña

Scripture: Ephesians 4:2, James 4:10, James 3:13, Matthew 11:29-30

The Word of God says, “Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth” (Numbers 12:3). Most of us aren’t born humble, but as Christians we are called to be humble. I personally believe that humility is a physically challenging attribute and not just mental or emotional. I will explain why.

When being told what to do by someone in higher authority, I may say “I understand” or “Yes” — but my face, gestures and reactions may say or do otherwise.

As Christians we learn that we have no power over anyone or anything but ourselves. Moses was “more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” After God had already given Moses and Aaron instructions to speak over the rock (with God providing water for the people), Moses decided to strike the rock twice instead. Because of this action Moses was no longer going to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 20:8-12). He acted differently from what his authority had instructed.

In our church youth class this year we read about Moses from the beginning of his life to the very end. One thing that stuck with us was how much Moses put up with, and how many times poor Moses asked God to take his life. Because Moses was so humble, he understood that leading the people of Israel was bigger than he was, and even bigger than the people he was leading. I think sometimes we forget that God is so much bigger than our problems, bigger than our family, and bigger than our church. When we finally realize this we will be humble, and one day we will get to the Promised Land.

Reflection: At the end of every day, reflect on your actions, your words, and your thoughts, and ask yourself, “Was I humble today?”

Prayer:
Jesus, let me be humble just as You taught us to be. You left us so many men and women as examples, but the ultimate one is You. Please guide me.

Pray for Seventh Day Baptists in Chile, England, and Guyana.