Protection Duty (Humility)

 

If you ever get the chance to visit the palace of a king or Sultan, whether you actually go inside, or just to drive by, you'll note strong walls surrounding the perimeter.  Guards toting guns stand sentinal at iron gates, guarding, protecting and defending the king.  They're doing their level best to keep him and his family safe from would-be attackers.

Similarly, being at church we are told to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  We must become guards.  But not with guns, of course!  We must protect and defend with the armor of God in place, standing firm and praying.  These are our weapons.

With sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, in our hand and the belt of truth clasped about our waists, we stand up against Satan and his evil minions.  God's truth guards against false teachers who wish to creep in, confusing and dividing the believers.

Another important weapon we can wield is our humility.  This armament protects against jealousy, gossip, selfishness, pride, resistance to learning and being corrected, and comparing our God-given gifts and talents with others.

These expressions of humility in church settings protect against people who wish to hurt or harm God's people.  In this way we can guard, protect, defend and keep the unity of the spirit.

Even though we, as individuals, may feel inadequate to do much, I believe we can begin our 'protection duty' by thinking about how we can be a part of this 'secret service' among the Lord's people more effectiviely, ensuring keeping the unity of the Spirit for a great and mighty King of kings.

Making and taking small steps towards this action can begin with learning about what humility is, and then actively growing in it.  An abundance of small steps eventually adds up to something much more comprehensive.

We can each do our part to guard, protect, defend and keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace in whichever gathering of followers of Jesus Christ we happen to meet with.  Pray.  Stand.  Guard.  Protect.

Heavenly Father, help me to be more conscious and alert to keeping the unity of the Spirit.  My part may be small, but together with Your other children and Holy Spirit's help, we can effectively accomplish our protection duty for You.  Thank You so much for Your help and Your Word.  We need all the help we can get.  I ask in King Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                ~  ERC  February 2026 ~

Based on Ephesians 4:3; 6:10-18 and James 3:16.

Sing, Bind Us Together Lord, along with Rockwood First Congregational Church.

Book Review - The Vatican Conspiracy - By Rob Jones - Publication Date: 15 February 2026

 Once again we get to traipse across desert and moutainous terrain, hopping even from country to country, after Dr. Hunter, the archeologist connected with UNESCO, and members of the ex- HARPA team as they go in quest, of the Garden of Eden.  Dangers lurk and threaten at almost every turn from known and unknown sources, until one may wonder if they'll all escape unscathed.

This is the sixth book in the Hunter Files series, but could be considered a stand alone.  However, to make greater connections with Hunter's past adventures, a potential reader may wish to read those that come before.  I do believe though that this book is adequately 'stand alone-ish'.

There is plenty of suspense and weapon action, and themes revolving around religious intrique as may well be deduced from the book's title.  Those readers who like such combinations should be well satisfied with this read, I believe.  The only caution I have with this narrative is the several insertions of swear words throughout.

                                                     ~  Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger  ~

                                                            February 2026

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

HAIKU - Pipe Line to the Heart

 

Heavy rain.  Earth slid.

Whoosh!  Slam!  Pipes hit.  Water burst.

Gushing wildly forth.

Turn on the faucet.

"No water!"  Residents shout.

One week or more.  Thirst.

Collect rain water.

Barrels and barrels.  Dip out.

Slosh!  Over dishes.

Slosh!  Over body,

and teeth and down the toilet. 

 No more rain!  Ration.

Still no water.  What

to do?  It's like God's Word, none,

and we thirst for Him.

Then with refreshing

daily, word of God, we re-

-vive, bringing new life.

Read. Meditate, day

by day.  Thirst for Christ in your

life.  Pipeline to heart.

Lord, the washing of the water of Your word is a lifeline to my heart.  As I read and meditate upon Your Word, make it a pipeline to my heart too.  The water of Your Word refreshes, revives and sanctifies.  Without it we thirst.  May I conscious not to ration it.  I ask in Your name.  Amen.

                                                  ~  ERC  February 2026  ~

 Based on Ephesians 5:26 ESV.

Sing, Lord, Sanctify Me in the Truth, along with hymnal.net.

The Confident Prayer of a Young Girl (Humility)

 Dr. Helen Roseveare was a missionary doctor to the Congo, Africa.  The people came to love and respect her and began to call her 'Mama Luca'.

But the Congo was a seriously dangerous place back in 1953 to 1973.  (Incidently, nothing much has changed since then.) Rebels roamed and Mama Luca was captured.  She was beaten and raped repeatedly.  But the people who called her 'Mama Luca' spoke up for her and eventually she was released back into their fold.

During her time there she built two hospitals and nurses' training centers.  Both of these were destroyed by warring factions.  Finally, a third was built and that stayed.  Additionally, there was an orphanage nearby, so around the hospital there were children present.

One day a baby was born too soon and sadly, the mother died.  How were they to keep the baby warm?  They needed a hot water bottle but the one they had burst.  Mama Luca got a group together, including the orphange children, to pray.  One young girl prayed that God would send a hot water bottle and bring it by that very afternoon!

Even Mama Luca stuttered on that one.  She wasn't sure she could say, "Amen" even though she needed that water bottle so badly and did trust in God.  But, they were in the middle of a jungle, far from any pharmacy.  How could this be possible!?

But you know, God always knows best.  He knows what we need before we do.  He knows when and where we'll need it too.  Isaiah 65:24 assures us,

"Before they call I will answer; while they are yet speaking I will hear" (ESV).

So the confidence and faith of that young girl was justified.

Way off in far away England the Lord must have triggered a cheerful giver to add in a hot water bottle to a box of medical supplies destined for that very spot in the jungle where it was needed that day of the young girl's prayer.  Who would have thought?  A hot water bottle in a hot jungle sounds redunant, yet the Lord had nudged someone to send one along to Dr. Roseveare.

Well, Mama Luca went to her hut a short time after that emergency prayer meeting.  Lo and behold, there was a parcel on her doorstep!  She brought it to the prayer group and opened it.  You guess it, there was a hot water bottle tucked inside!

Praise the Lord.  Let us sing of the goodness of God!

The point of telling this wonderful and true story of God's grace, love and provision is to demonstrate how believers participate in the Holy Spirit, and do so even from great distances.  Younger and older ones can be involved.

Every follower of Jesus Christ has the Holy Spirit and therefore can "participate in the Spirit" (ESV) or as the NIV states, "common sharing of the Spirit".

As you read Philippians 2:1 & 2 in both versions you'll see the 'any's' and 'if's' along with these phrases.  When we have any of these 'any's' and 'if's' they will bring like-mindedness to us.  We will have this participation in the Spirit like a team member.  These are expressions of humility.

These expressions of humility were found in the jungle prayer gathering.  They each participated in the Holy Spirit as they prayed.  They showed their dependance and humility in the sight of God.

Nowadays, this still extends to the body of believers in any given church setting or wherever they gather.  Each and every follower of Jesus Christ has this privilege.  God will amaze you with the results.

Father God, again and again You demonstsrate Your love and care to us, Your children.  You even answer before we call. You are truly awesome and amazing.  Help us to be evermore dependant upon You and to grow in our humility so we can express it out to benefit others.  I ask in Your Son Jesus' precious name.  Amen.

                                               ~  ERC  January 2026  ~

Based on Philippians 2:1 & 2 ESV and NIV, and Isaiah 65:24 ESV.

Sing, What a Friend We Have in Jesus, along with Lydia Walker.

Lord's Day Devotion - Like a Candle Sacrifice

 IN this morning's Lord's Day sermon, the hearers were reminded of what a burning candle can remind us of.  As the candle burns, it sacrifices itself.

This is a little illustration of what Jesus has done for us.  Jesus, the Light of the world, gave His all for all mankind.  His sacrifice, His giving Himself for us out of love, mercy and grace can be shed abroad in our hearts (see John 8:12).

With hearts full of praise, let us give Him our adoration, thanksgiving and our all.

This Lord's Day, reach for the broken bread and drink from the cup in remembrance of what our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has done for us.

May His Light, give us light in turn, and may we give our all for the "whosoever will" (see John 3:16).

                                                       ~ ERC  February 2026  ~

Based on John 8:12 and 3:16 ESV.

Sing, Light of My World, along with Hillsong and Hear I am to Worship, along with Lauren Daigle.

Synonymous Message of Jesus (Humility)

 Here's some biblical synonyms for you.  They are taken from Philippians 2:2, 3 and 5 from both the ESV and NIV.  We find 'one mind,' 'same mind,' ('same love'), 'one accord' and being 'like minded'.   These 'one' and 'same' phrases extend from expressions of humility.  They are also what the Lord requires (see Micah 6:8 NKJV).

At church we rub shoulders with many people of different personalities.  They each have their own thoughts, ideas, and opinions.  If they put themselves first and insist on their way, there will be lots of unpleasant arguments and bad feelings that could fester for decades to come.

BUT, if they have 'one mind' to put Jesus first and honor Him, to nurture and encourage everyone to grow in their spiritual life, building and building up God's kingdom together, then they will be like minded.  If they have the 'same love,' they love God and love their neighbor with the love we find described in 1 Corinthians 13 (vs 4-7) about God's kind of love.  Then there will be believers together, in 'one accord.'  They have the same purpose and all aim for that one goal.

That sounds like a mouthful but here's a brief illustration that might help.  A particular church may plan a picnic outing on a holiday weekend.  They invite friends, family and neighbors.  They want to share food and fun abut also the love of Jesus.

The one goal is to share Jesus.  The one and the same mind is to do so with the picnic.  The same love is the love of Jesus in our hearts.

It can operate something as follows.  Some church members prepare food, others the fun and games, and still someone else a short message.  The youth group may provide the music and songs.  Someone scouts out a good picnic venue and so on.

In this way they each use their gifts while imitating Christ's humility in the fear of the Lord.  This is the 'one accord' and the showing of 'one love' among the saints, radiating out towards the friends, family and neighbors, drawing them to Christ.  As they observe this, it could become the loudest message of Jesus our guests ever recieve.

                                                    ~  ERC  January 2026  ~

Based on Philippians 2:2, 3 and 5 ESV/NIV.

Sing, The Love of God is Greater Far, along with Guy Penrod, Joy Gardner, and David Phelps.

Book Review - Shared Secrets For the Home Front Nurses - By Rachel Brimble - Publication Date 13 February 2026

 As most of this novel's potential readership has likely never lived through war conditions, this story can give glimpsed exposure into the state of  things during WWII in Britian.  It focuses mostly on the experiences of several nurses, namely Kathy, Freda, Sylvia and Veronica, their individual lives but also as a close supportive friend group of young working adults.  I believe some readers may envy what they had in this friendship.

The nurses' fears, sadnesses and joys of life and their commitment and sacrifice in helping one another, but also those touched by war, was evident.  I felt that the way they helped each other was rather noble.

Issues such as child abuse, LGBT relationships, inter-racial marriage, rape victims and returned veterans, and escaped POW's with their PTSD traumas, and how they deal with it all in the aftermath, are mentioned.

Of course there is added romance to season the tale.  One related caution for some potential readers would be the more intimate bedroom scenes referred to.  Generally speaking, this is light reading and can be read through fairly quickly, time permitting.

                                          ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                      5 February 2026

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Wrapped in Love (Humility)

 If you've ever experienced life in a Borneon village, you'll have most likely heard the gongs.  They can signal various messages depending on the way they are struck.  It could be a call to a community event such as a wedding; a more sober gathering such as a funeral, or one of alarm of impending danger.  But if the gongs are continuiosly struck for no particular reason, they could be irritating and annoying.

Similary, if one is in the midst of a Chinese community during Chinese New Year (CNY), the sounds of drums and cymbals can clang ad nauseam.  The cymbals of the unicorn dance is especially aggravating.  Clang! Clang!  Noise, noise, noise!

When one is trying to sleep or read a book in peace or listen to ones own preferred music, you will understand the infuriating feelings in reaction to such noise pollution.

In "The Love Chapter' (1 Corinthians 13), we learn that doing all sorts of good for people, even using our own gifts and resources, or even speaking,

"...in tongues of men and of angels but have not love" (see vs 1),

that all that presumed goodness is nothing but ...

"... a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal" (vs 1).

Love is an expression of humility.  We need to put God's love into action.  When you read 1 Corinthians 13 you'll see the characteristics of God's love.  It is patient, kind, doesn't envy or boast; it isn't arrogant or rude and so much more.

As we serve the Lord among our brothers and sisters in church, we need to do so with loving humility.  This is the one love we need to encapsulate ourselves in because it comes from God through Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit who indwells us.  This is the more excellent way.

Let's ask ourselves,

 "Do I love those I interact with at church?"

Lord, it's true what You say in Your word.  At times we are all noise and action but we forget about action wrapped in Your kind of love.  Your kind of love is often lacking in our hearts and therefore in our actions.  I'm sorry for my bad attitude.  I do need to learn to be more attentive to this more excellent way.  Thank You for Your words of correction.  In Your name Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen.

                                                     ~ ERC  January 2026 ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 12:31 and 13:1-3 ESV.

Sing, Love Will Never Fail, along with Leslie Jordan, Integrity Music.

Book Review - Bianca's Cure - By Gigi Berardi - Pulication Date 10 February 2026

 Besides decades of romance between Bianca and the Medici prince, there were decades of meticulous experiments and documentations of her findings.  Bianca was determined to find a cure for malaria, especially for her Prince Francesco, but also for the others in the world of Florence.  The setbacks and frustrations and overt hostilitiy towards her as a woman in the 1500's, dabbling in 'brews' would have been enough to halt a person of lesser caliber, but not Bianca.  She forged through relentlessly.  I liked her strength in this aspect.

This work of historical fiction has been based on real pepole (as reflected in the main characters).  Of course as this is fictional, there are the added 'salt and pepper seasonings'.

I mostly enjoyed the narrative but did find it somewhat draggy.  Perhas there were too many descriptions.  Overall, it felt long and drawn out.  However, this could be the cleverness of the author to mirror the long years of Bianca's scientific work in progress.  If so, it surely gave me, the reader, the 'feel' for that slow pace of the whole process she had had to work through.  Either way, I felt impatient, waiting for the story to end.

This could be just me though.  Other potential readers may find it thoroughly fascinating especially with the descriptions of the plants and leaves and distellations as Bianca created her medicines.

Just so you know, for those who are adverse to initmate bedroom scenes, there are plenty of them in this book.  This is the one other caution I'd have for this narrative.

                                         ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                      January 2026

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Review - An Unconventional Lady - By Sarah E. Ladd - Publication Date: 10 February 2026

 

Historical fiction from the 1800's interests me very much.  And as this narrative is set in that time frame I really enjoyed this story.  The dynamics of women having to marry for convenience to set up alliances with another family or to secure an inheritance or legacy are issues explored in this book.  

Phrenology, a pseudoscience, that was discussed, dissected and explored in those days, features largely in this tale.  Repercussions, lies and deceit snarl around Ella, her father, Gabriel Rowe, Phoebe and the Society.  I'm also happy when an author addresses abuse of women, which Sarah E. Ladd has done in this book.  

Overall, I found the story to be pleasant and I was favorably satisfied with the storyline.

                                               ~  Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger  ~

                                                           November 2025

Disclaimer:  I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are honest and completely my own.

Read review on Goodreads.

Roll Along Well (Humility)

 

Unity ... it's being together or at one with someone or something.  Like a person on a bicycle, powering it with their strong legs, turning the pedals that are attached to the crank arms that are connected to the back wheel hub.  The chain that links them engages to move the back wheel forward, setting the bicycle in motion.  There are different parts but the person and the bicycle function as one.

Similarly, the body of Christ can function.  This can relate directly to the unity of the Spirit in church.  Unity is an expression of humility.  Even though there are brothers and sisters-in-Christ with their own thoughts, ideas and opinions, when they humbly work together, they power and keep the unity of the Spirit.

This 'one body' unity is kept by the willingness of our minds and hearts.  It is not coerced.  Unity allows all the believers to use their gifts for the good and benefit of all the other believers.  It doesn't get jealous or demanding.  Humiltiy keeps the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  

Furthermore, because of the grace given us, this unity can be activated and maintained,

"But the grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift" (Ephesians 4:7 ESV).

God's grace in us, coupled with Christlike humility, can do wondrous things among the congregation of believers.  It is like being one with the Spirit like the person with the bicycle.  Like this, we can roll along well for Jesus.

Heavenly Father, our humanness often causes rifts among assembled believers.  Help us with Holy Spirit empowerment to clothe ourselves with humility and the grace you have given us through Jesus to keep the unity of the Spirit You so desire and require. I beseech You in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                      ~ ERC  January 2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 12:13-20, 27 and Ephesians 4:3-7 ESV.

Sing, Trust and Obey, along with the Vagle Brothers and We Are One Body, along with Tom Iglis.

Lord's Day Devotion - The Oil of Humility (Humility)

 

Just as a bicycle chain needs regular oiling to prevent rusting and to give a smoother ride, so too, humility can act as 'oil' to keep unity of the Spirit.

Serving in church is an expression of humility.  With this 'oil' there will be fewer arguments and disagreements that divide the saints.  Discovering ones' gift and using it among the believers is good.  We do not need to show off or toot our own horns about it.  Just quietly go about our service for the Lord and His people.

The gift of teaching or a pastor's preaching does not have the be in competition.  Some people giving generously and cheerfully doing acts of mercy are welcome especially when there is no boasting about it.  Those who tally the weekly offerings must be people of integrity and good at math and accounting.  The church office worker, a person who has a gift of administration and so much more.  There are various and sundry gifts that can be used in our Master's service.

Pastors, the shepherds who take care of the sheep, often work tirelessly and quietly all week long doing so much for the good of the congregants, unbeknowst to the general comgregation.  They are often unappreciated.  Yet, altogether with all the church members, they can work in peace and harmony, and the believers grow in their Christian life and relationship with the Lord and each other.  It keeps the unity of the Spriit in the bond of peace and faith as each humbly use their respective gift of service.

As the well-oiled bicycle runs smoothly, so too when the oil of humilty is regularly applied to the interrelations of the church members.

Father God we lift our voices up to You in praise and gladdness that Your gifts of grace have been given to Your children for the good and benefit of all in any given congregation of Your people.  Hallelujah!  You have faithfully given us all of them.  Help us to apply the 'oil' of humility as we go about our service for You among the brethren and those who are yet to know You.  

This Lord's Day, we keep this in mind as we partake of the broken bread and drink of the cup of wine, those symbols that remind us of all Jesus has done for us through His death and resurrection.  We are so thankful for it all.  In Your Son Jesus' name we give You are heartfelt thanks.  Amen.

                                                 ~  ERC  January 2026 ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 12:27-31, Romans 12:3-8 and Ephesians 4:7-8, 11-13 ESV.

Sing, We Fall Down, along with Chris Tomlin and Speak, O Lord, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Common Denominator (Humility)

 Living in a land that is supposedly a "land of the free and home of the brave" sounds like fantasy.  When immigration pours in, yes, the immigrants likely feel freedoms they hadn't experienced in their land of birth.  They have had to be brave to come.  But do they ever, truly become one with their adopted country?

Are they looked upon as 'belonging'?  That is the question.  Have they inculcated enough of the local vibes to give the appearance of being one with the locals?  Are there enough common denominators?

There are so many cultures coming together but wishing to remain who they were in their country of origin.  Generally speaking, it's armor, defensive armor.

But when there are church members in multicultural conglomerate, we Christians have to remember God's words about no more Jew or Greeks, slaves or free in the congregation of believers.

The 'common denominator' is that we are one body in Christ.  We are one in Christ.  We are all followers of Jesus Christ.  There is a 'code of ethics' - so to speak - that should characterize each believer and they each need to put it into action among the assemblage.

We all belong to Jesus Christ.  We are all Christians.  Each has the Holy Spirit.  These are common denominators.  And if each is walking humbly in the fear of the Lord, and in step with the Holy Spirit, they will behave in a manner pleasing to the Lord and not look down on anyone in contempt.  Nor will anyone look up and put anyone on a pedestal.

If you read 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 you will see what God says through the Apostle Paul.

"For just as the body is one and has many members, and all members of the body, though many are one body, so it is with Christ.  For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body - Jews or Greeks, slaves or free - and all were made to drink of the one Spirit" (ESV).

When we wrap ourselves in humility, which by-the-way, is required of the Lord (see Micah 6:8 NKJV), we will want and have that attitude of Jesus Christ.  We will want to imitate Him.  At church we will engage certain behavior referred to as "expressions of humility."  These should be obvious to all.

There will then be greater unity among the saints.  There will be greater love shown to one and all.  All our praise, worship and boasting will be for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Let's let our common denominator of humility to activate.

Heavenly Father, You know how our humanness often makes us selfish and proud.  In humility, Jesus came and showed us true humility.  Help us to wrap ourselves in His, to grow more and more humble in imitation of Jesus' attitude.  We need this especially at church among believers of all shapes and sizes and ethnic backgrounds.  May we see ourselves first and foremost as Your children characterized by Your love, forgiveness and humility and more.

In Christ we are all one and not the culture we were born into.  May there be peace and harmony and a showing of Your love among the believers.  When non-believers look at us they will say we truly belong to You.  I ask all this in Jesus' most precious name.  Amen.

                                                  ~ ERC  January 2026 ~

Based on:  1 Corinthians 12:12-13 ESV.

Sing, The Love of God is Greater Far, along with Guy Penrod, Joy Gardner and David Phelps.

Let Another Praise You (Humility)

"Let another praise you and not your own mouth; a stranger and not your own lipe" (Proverbs 27:2 ESV).

There may be good reason for praising something successful and the one who worked hard to achive a goal.  But this verse tells us to let others do the praising.

I'd say its okay to compete, to have excellence and success in various pursuits a person can have.  It's good to do and be the best we can but don't praise yourself upon the accomplishments.  This seems to be the verse's sentiments God wants us to know.

Success and praise can become idols and be hindrances to growing humility in our Christian lives.  We need to walk humbly with the Lord.  In fact, humility is what the Lord requires of us (see Micah 6:8 NKJV).

Think about the Apostle Paul.  He had the finest of pedigrees.  Top education, straight A's, so to speak, the best of Pharisees, abiding religiously correct to God's Laws and among other things, top grade.  He had had such great success and acclaim in his life.

But in the end, he actually considered the accomplishements as "rubbish" (see Philippians 3:8).  Why?  He said this because he wanted to gain Christ in his life, to have Christ's righteousness and goodness instead of banking on his own merits.

And he did have much to boast about.  You can read the list in 2 Corinthians 11:16-12:10.  But he said not to put confidence in ourselves.  We need the confidence that comes from God to make us complete, which we can't achieve from all our earthly successes (see 2 Corinthians 3:1-4).

He practiced what he preached, too.  Remember Phoebe?  She was one Paul commended and praised to the Romans.  It wasn't because of her beauty and charm - we're not told about that.  But because she had been such a help and blessing to many, including Paul himself.

In the same passage, Paul names several others like Priscilla and Aquila, his fellowworkers who risked their lives for him.  The church also met in their home.  The list goes on (see Romans 16).

So even if we have swimming success in whatever we do, be sure to boast about what our Lord and Savior has done for us.  Be sure to thank Him for it too.

As we practice this daily, humility we'll have more fertile ground in which to grow humility within us and govern our lives.  Let's seek this outcome and give God the praise.

Father God, may the humility and attitude of Jesus characterize me too.  Work it into my life so all my praise and worship goes to You and Your Son Jesus.  In Jesus' name I ask.  Amen.

                                               ~ ERC  December 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 27:2; Jeremiah 9:23-24 and 1 Corinthians 1:31 ESV.

Sing, Praise the Savior, along with Songs From Scripture (Abe & Liza Philip).  Or here's another version of it with choir input from Martijin de Groot and Grace Community Church.

War Across the Divide (Humility)

 

They say birds of a feather flock together.  It seems quite true.  Take an ordinary classsroom of students with a teacher in front of the class.  Often, it becomes teacher vs students.

So teachers from other classes band together, forming a coalition of sorts.  Then across the divide of feathers, there's tension and 'war'.

The same scenario could float to the top at church with church leadership vs congregation. Or, at work, employees vs employer.  In the home it could be parents vs their children.

With this divide there comes 'resistance to learning'.  Resistance to learning is a hindrance to developing humility in our lives as believers in Jesus Christ.

Those in leadership positions may feel those under their leadership are rebellious, stubborn, lazy, uncaring and not eager to cooperate or to learn.

The students, church members, employees and children may feel that those in authority above them are too bossy, unwilling to listen to feedback and therefore, unable to accept teaching and words of wisdom.  So can you see this tug-of-war?

When Christian teachers, church leaders, employers and parents together with their Christian students, church members, employees and children see Jesus as THE Teacher, and make HIM boss of their life, there will be more humility, I believe.  When we realize Jesus is the true Person in authority, both sides of the divide will be better able to accept each other better and then like beautiful flowers, each will be able to grow and blossom.  There won't be as much resistance to learning and listening, and there won't be so much war across the divide.

Learning will be more able to flow in both directions with greater respect for each other:  teachers and students; church leadership with church members, employers with employees, and parents with their children and visa versa.

"Hallelujah!"  we can then joyfully exclaim.

                                                    ~  ERC  December 1015  ~

Based on Matthew 7:28-29 and John 1:38 ESV.

Sing, I Want to Serve the Purpose of God in My Generation, along with Peter C3  and Take My Life and Let It Be Consecrated, along with Reawaken.

Late For Lunch (Humility)

 There was one summer camp young people went to once they reached a certain teen age.  It could be quite fun unless of course, you were late for a meal.  Those who had been on time would collectively burst into song, singing,

"What we want is more punctuality,

More punctuality, more punctuality,

What we want is more punctuiality,

We were here on time ..."

It was all in good fun but a message was conveyed to the latecomers.

A person can forgive another if lateness is a one-off thing but if it is a habitual habit it shows a disregard for others, for their time, that you think you are more important than the ones who wait, and even demanding from those who had been punctual - their forbearance as you made them wait.

What happens to the demeanor of the latecomer, or to anyone who needs gentle correction?  Are they 'open to reason' or will they just ignore feedback and go on their merry way unchanged?

The wise are those who take heed.

"Wisdom from above is ... open to reason" (James 3:17 & 18).

The opposite of 'open to reason' is 'ignoring feedback'.  Ignoring feedback is a hindrance to developing humility.  This means when someone mentions an area in our attitude or character that needs improvement, we ignore it.  We don't care, or don't want to show they'd hit the nail on the head.

We feel too proud to accept we might have a weakness and certainly won't wish to acknowledge one.  But if we want to cultivate humility, we will be 'open to reason'.  We will examine ourselves to see if the person has been correct about us.  If so, we will then accept it, and take remedial action, when and where necessary.

Specific behavior can change and lead to greater humility the more an individual is open to feedback and engages a willing heart to do better.  This in turn could lead to greater wisdom and a Christlike attitude.

May the Lord's wisdom from above prompt us towards attitudes that please Him.  We can make it an offering, a scarifice of our will to His.  May His Holy Spirit work mightily within us towards such an outcome.  We especially don't want to be 'late for lunch'.

                                                 ~ ERC  December 2025 ~

Based on James 3:17 & 18 ESV.

Sing, Humbled Heart, along with Sarah Kroger (Acoutsic).

The Comparing Game (Humility)

 

When we measure and compare ourselves with others, we will either feel ourselves lacking and feeling inferior or we will be seeing ourselves as better than others.  Neither of these scenarios are pleasing to the Lord.

Both scenarios a comparison that creates jealousy and anger.  These are big hindrances to growing in humility.  The Bible verse 2 Corinthians 10:12 ESV tells us we are

 "without understanding"

 when we play the comparing game.

These can lead to devastating consequences.  It is not just child's play!

Think back to Cain and Abel.  Brothers - the first ever brothers of humanity.  Both worked hard at their vocations.  Cain - a vegetable farmer while Abel herded and tended sheep.  

When each brought an offering for the Lord, both brought from what they knew and what they valued.  We ask then, "Why?"  Why did the Lord regard Abel's offering over Cain's?

Seems like Cain had a right to be angry and jealous and want vindication.  The Bible doesn't indicate the Lord's reasons but we can surmise some.

God knows our hearts.  He knows what is deep down and what our motivations are.  He may well have accepted Abel's offering as more acceptable as Abel knew and understood what God wanted most.  Abel's heart attitude was wrapped in faith and humility.

On the other hand, Cain's heart may well have been proud of all his work, forgetting that despite all his weeding, fertilizing and tending of his crops, it was God who made it actually grow.  His jealousy led him to murder his brother Abel.  He had no understanding of what the Lord wanted.

From the New Testatment we see John the Baptist was one who knew what the Lord wanted.  He understood his role was to prepare the way for Jesus to come.  He did his ministry well and in the end he said about Jesus and himself,

"He (Jesus) must increase but I must decrease" (vs 30).

And so John exalted Jesus, which was right.  In this we can see John the Baptizer's humility.

Let's get before the Lord for this very serious matter especially since it can be a stumbling block and hindrance to our growth in humility.  Remember, all we have and our abilities come from the Lord.

                                                   ~ ERC  December 2025  ~

Based on 2 Corinthians 10:12; Genesis 4:1-55 and James 3:14-16 ESV.

Sing, Humbled Heart, Litany of Humility.

Lord's Day Devotion - Quick to Forgive (Humility)

 We all know what an apple is like and can describe its characteristics well.  We might say it's a Red Delicious or Green Granny or has the dull brown with yellow or gold undertones of a Russet.  It's generally round in shape, with smooth-ish skin.  Then there's the crunchy munch of the white, sweet and juicy flesh.  And the adage,

"An apple a day will keep the doctor away,"

may come to mind.  There may be healing properties in an apple's essence.

Similarly, humility has characteristics.  These may be trickier to describe but we can suggest some to mediate upon.  These are good and encompass what the Lord requires of us in regards to doing justly and loving mercy as we walk humbly with our God (see Micah 6:8 NKJV).

There's focusing our attention on others.  When we do so we will be better able to respectfully listen to them in silence, with our lips zipped.  We will be more quick to forgive and see the best in others.  Tougher ones may be willingness to admit our own mistakes, to be giving and to not be too proud to ask others for help. 

A great verse from Proverbs can guide us and give us reason to consider these, although this 'list' is not exhaustive.

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom"          (Proverbs 11:2 ESV).

Our pride will be a huge blockade to operating our Christian lives with humility.

We can work on overcoming pride and growing in humility.  An apple tree does not grow up big and tall and fruitful overnight but there is steady growth with the right conditions.

We can think of Sister Phoebe that the apostle Paul spoke so highly of (see Romans 16:1-2).  She'd helped so many of the believers, Paul included.  This makes me believe she had the humility to focus on others and give 100% attention to them in silence.

She'd listen in silence, not interrupting or interjecting her own experiences and opinions.  No, she'd have very likely observed their faces and facial experessions and body language.  She'd have seen if they were tired, hungry, discouraged, angry, joyful, in sorrow or had some other need.  Then she'd fulfil and provide the lack appropriately, perhaps even unobtrusively.

This would be quiet humility in action.  One of the rewards of which is honor (see Proverbs 22:4 ESV).  Paul was basically telling the Romans to honor her by helping her help others in every possible way.  Phoebe hadn't been doing all she'd been doing to get this response, I believe, but rather because she loved mercy and had great compassion for others.

How often do we hold grudges?  Some hold them for days, months and years that add up to lifetimes.  Yet, if we are followers of Jesus Christ, we are told we MUST give just as Jesus did (see Colossians 3:12-13).  It is not easy to forgive offences and slights, and outright abuse and trauma perpetrated by others, especially those we thought we were close too.

I respect and admire Joseph's story.  O, how his brothers betrayed him and sold him away! The injustice then of Potiphar's wife's false accustations of a man of integrity and who feared God.  Joseph was whipped into prison and left to rot.

Eventually getting out of prison when he interpreted Pharoah's dreams, he was finally getting justice and honor, although that is not what he'd sought.  Being made second in the Egyptian kingdom was not anything he ever had aspired to.  His earlier dreams of his brothers' obeyance may well have puzzled him though throughout the years until then.

The famine years came upon the world and Joseph's brothers made the food trek to Egypt.  What a startling moment for Joseph when he recognized them!  It was his great chance to strike with revenge, big time!  But he didn't.  He did test them, but not out of vengeance (see Genesis 37, 39-45:8).

Eventually he revealed himself.  The brothers believed they were up a creek without a paddle then and bowed before Joseph in terror.  Joseph's reply brings me to tears.  The humility of it all.  The graciousness is mindboggling.  Read it for yourselves.

"And now do not be distressed or angry with yourselve because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life."

"And God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors."

"It was not you who sent me here, but God.  He has made me a father to Pharaoh and Lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt" (Genesis 45:6-8 ESV).

Our Jesus forgives and He forgave the men who hung Him on the cross.  Think of all that injustice, being held there, that sinless, spotless, blameless Lamb of God.  Yet He forgave and immediately forgives the repentant ones - the ones who would admit and repent of their wrongs, mistakes and sins.

First John 1:9 reveals this immediateness.  We confess, He forgives.  Let's all be quick to forgive.  After all it is what Jesus does.  Let's follow our Leader who is our Savior and Lord.

Father God, we humbly partake of the broken bread and drink of the cup of wine in remembrance of your costly sacrifice on our behalf.  May we show our gratitude by cultivating the attitude of Jesus of humility and quickness to forgive the repentent heart.  We pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                   ~ ERC  December 2025 ~

Based on Proverbs 11:2 NIV, Micah 6:8 NKJV, and Genesis 37, 39-45:8 ESV.

Sing, Forgiveness, along with Matthew West and Amazing Grace (Chains Gone), along with Michael W. Smith.

Prayer - 2026 Soul Search

 

Lord, am I happy with my status quo?  Or, do I want to gain more of you, my Savior Jesus Christ, in my life?  Do I want more of Your righteousness and goodness instead of all else that distracts?

I cannot totally, honestly say at the moment.  There is some resistance in my heart.  What would I need to displace?  Something I do not want to admit to myself, let alone to You, Lord.  Of course You already know though.  

Yet, You patiently wait.  You wait, ready and willing with already opened arms of love and care.  You wait for me to come humbly, willingly, honestly, really ready without heart hindrances or hesitations, to have more of you.  Thank You for Your patience, Lord.

                                                 ~  ERC  January 2026  ~

Based on Philippians 3:8 ESV.

Sing, I Surrender All, along with Reawaken.

Competitive Spirit (Humility)

 

Competition can be such a huge hindrance to cultivating humility.  Often there is no mercy shown to the opponents.  It has everything to do with winning.  The me, myself and I of the individual and even of the corporate, dog-eat-dog world.

Some people say competition is good because it sharpens people, giving them an edge to do better.  It keeps the mind active and nimble with little chance of becomig stagnant.  I admit there is some truth to it.

But then we have the Bible verse pinning us down,

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit but in humility count others more significant than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3).

So is it okay for a follower of Jesus to be so competitive?  Do we just let the other team win?

It's rather confusing but I think that we can compete with excellence, and integrity and still do so in a Christlike manner.  As we compete we can show our faith by good sportsmenship, kindness and care for the other players or corporate businessmen.  With our integrity we play fair even if the referee or other authoritites don't see.

Keep in mind too, that earthly trophies and prizes are only temporary.  We don't make an idol out of winning nor do we boast about how good we are.  We need to remember others are well valued by, and significant to God, too.

I think it's good to honestly check ourselves.  Is there something about our competitive spirit that is hindering us from growing in humility?  If we can't see it, ask the Lord to reveal it to us so it can be dealt with.

Pray now.

                                                ~  ERC  December 2025  ~

Based on Philippians 2:3 ESV

Sing, Humbled Heart, along with Sarah Kroger (Acoustic).

S - E - L - F (Humility)

 

There are hindrances to humility.  One big one of course, is pride.  Another on is S - E - L- F.  In other words, 'ME,' 'Myself' and 'I.'  We get in our own way with selfishness.

"Pride leads to destruction," the Bible says,  "and a haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18 ESV).

Like Humpty Dumpty who had a great fall, our pride can lead to our own destruction.  A haughty spirit looks down on people seeing them as far inferior  to our own selfish and supposed greatness  We hold them in contempt as if they were a cockroach to be slapped dead with a flipflop or trampled under our feet.

This is our sin sickness at some of its worst presentation.  Our hearts only think of SELF and what Me, Myself and I want.  It is always putting SELF first.  Can you see how this is a great hindrance to growing any humility in our souls?

The good news is though, that unlike the king's horses and king's men who couldn't put Humpty Dumpty together again, Jesus can put us together again.

All our pride, arrogance and haughtiness can be repented of.  We can bow before the Lord in confession of these attitudes that highly displease Him.  We can then decide on a new course of action.  That is, we can choose to put Jesus first and others next before ourselves.  And when we empty ourselves of SELF, God can begin to deal with us and create in us something new.   Our hearts can be mended and we can begin to grow some humility - humilty that's more like Christ's.

Father, be merciful to me a sinner - a very selfish one.  I surrender my pride and haughtiness to You.  I'm sorry for all that behavior.  Help me to grow in humility to become more like Your son Jesus.  I ask in His name, amen.

                                                   ~  ERC  December 2025  ~

Based on Proverbs 16:18 ESV.

Sing, All My Boast is in Jesus, along iwth Keith and Kristyn Getty and Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Bryan Fowler.