Devotion for Sunday, March 18, 2018
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“They are not in trouble as other men, nor are they plagued like mankind. Therefore pride is their necklace; the garment of violence covers them.” (Psalm 73:5-6)
Pride goes before the fall. One can see the pride worn by others as if it were an outer adornment around their neck. Sometimes it is we who wear it. There is a warning here to avoid thinking of oneself first, for it brings violence to others. Sometimes it is just violence of thought, but sometimes it is violence against another person. The Lord has come to remove the haughtiness we have and replace it with His goodness and kindness.
Lord, there are many haughty and prideful people around me. Sometimes I am one of these people. Guide my heart in the way of truth to see in myself those things which must be given to Christ to be slain that I may be freed from violence of the heart. Lead me by grace to live according to Your will and, by seeing the truth of the ages, be conformed to the image of Your Son.
Lord Jesus, You know well the issues of sin that reign in this age. You encountered all manner of people as You walked the earth. Guide me in Your goodness to have hope in You and what You have accomplished from the cross. Guide me to not fear others, but to fear being separated from You. Lead me to choose the better portion and follow You all the days of my life. Amen.