In my personal Bible reading, I am presently reading through the fourth book of the Bible entitled Numbers. Numbers (which has always captured my interest as a former math teacher) is a book written by Moses describing various details including the list of names and the numbers of individuals in the various tribes of Israel, as they wander in the wilderness prior to entering the promise land. The reader of this book is reminded of the dangers of unbelief, grumbling against God, and sinful behavior.
While reading the book, I am also amazed and challenged by the humility of Moses, who had been called by God to lead Israel. Moses is described as the following: “(Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth)” Numbers 12:3 NIV. Upon reading this challenge, I desired in my heart to have that same level of humility and yet wondered if that ambitious thought disqualified me from consideration. It appears that Moses didn’t simply seek to be humble, but that he truly was humble before the LORD and the calling that he had received.
As I continue to read through Numbers, I am challenged by Moses humility demonstrated in a number of practical ways. Moses consistently seeks honor for the LORD and yet not for himself. Although often questioned by those who oppose his leadership, he responds consistently with an absence of resentment or competition. He also is eager to forgive others who have wronged him, repeatedly interceding for them seeking God’s forgiveness as well.
These lessons from a truly humble man have reminded me that at the very core of our worship of God is the call to be humble. Approximately 700 years later, the prophet Micah echoed this same theme to God’s people describing God’s calling to each or our lives with these words: He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 NIV
Are you walking humbly with your God?
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