A contrite and humble spirit

A contrite and humble spirit

Scripture:- For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones Isaiah 57:15

Observation:- This Scripture in Isaiah gives us a very interesting picture. First there is God, high and lifted up, dwelling throughout all eternity. His name is holy. Yet, despite all God’s glory and majesty, it says that He also dwells with him who has a contrite and humble spirit. Great and mighty God, staying with lowly, humble men. It seems such a contradiction, but in it, we see the awesome grace and mercy of our loving, Heavenly Father.

There is no room for the proud in God’s kingdom. In his pride, the wicked does not seek God. In all his thoughts there is no room for God. The Pharisees and teachers of the law in Jesus’ day were guilty of this. Very typical was Jesus’ example of the Pharisee who hypocritically thanked God for how righteous and perfect he was and not like the general sinful public or even like the tax collector beside him. The tax collector on the other hand beat his chest before God and said “Have mercy on me, a sinner” and it was he, the contrite one, who went home justified before God.

Many other parts of Scripture show us that God favors the humble but His eyes are on the haughty to bring them low. David, despite his terrible sin, returned back into God’s favor because of his repentant and contrite heart. Even King Rehoboam and King Manasseh, in spite of their sins, found favor with God when they humbled themselves before Him. Pride is indeed one the most dangerous temptations in life that can bring down anyone.

At the same time, we need to be careful of false humility, the calculated, intentional debasement of one’s self to appear “humble” and “contrite” in the eyes of others. Man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart. Only God knows whether we are truly humble and contrite before Him. Therefore we would do well not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought, but come honestly and humble before Him, and depend on Him to change us.

Application:- Regularly, we need to check our heart to see if we have become too proud or conceited in any particular area. Then, we need to come humbly and honestly before Jesus and ask Him to change us to become more like Him, the humble servant King, who gave Himself for us that we might be saved.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the pride I have within me, for the tendency to think too highly of myself or to look down on others. Help me become more and more like You, that I may humbly and honestly serve You and show Your love to many. In Jesus name, Amen