Self-humiliation brings with it tenderness of spirit; and as
we sink in our own esteem, the Lord fulfils in us that precious
promise, "To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and
of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at My word" (Isa. 66:2).
If we be self-loathed, we shall be willing, when brought low,
to sink lower still. (2 Sam. 15:25.26.)
He that is self-abased before God, and so carries himself humbly
towards others, must obtain honour; but if any child of God exalt
himself, sure as God is, shame will come of that self-exaltation.
Our reputation is the last thing we are willing to lose we cleave
to it even when, in point of justification and peace with God,
we have counted our own righteousness filthy rags. Let the saints
take heed to their walk before God and man; but this done, so
that they have in all things a conscience void of offence, let
them account their reputation God's jewel, not their own.
Knowledge often exceeds grace; but communion with God and poverty
of Spirit go together: if the one decline, so will the other.
The low place is the safe place; and whatever the tribulation,
it will surely bring its blessings, God being trusted.
Samson was never so strong as when, through his own folly brought
low and put to shame, he said, "Strengthen me, I pray Thee, O
God, only this once" (Jud. 16:28).
We are wont to consider David's slaying Goliath a great deed
of faith, and such it was; but more to be admired is David's
dominion over himself that marked his course. His blemishes and
sins were not his character.
Confidence in God and self-distrust are sure companions.
It is true humility and true holiness to judge ourselves dead
and buried with Christ as children of the first Adam, whatever
the flesh within us; and as children of God raised up together
with Christ, and seated with Him, the last Adam, the head of
the new creation. We thus discern, and subdue, and loathe the
flesh, which, though crucified with Christ in the account of
God and of faith, is ever struggling to regain lost dominion.
Satan, taking occasion by the flesh, would cast us down in the
spirit of our minds from our heavenly places. Resisting him in
faith, we wage the war of Eph. 6. Good soldiers of Christ will
have the peace of God ruling in their hearts. They cannot but
live in peace; for the God of love and peace is with them. Schism
and division proclaim the victories and triumphs of Satan. Would
God we were all by His Spirit awakened to consider these things!
The day is at hand that will make us and our ways all manifest;
and we ourselves shall then no more mistake the talk of the lips
for the obedience of faith.