Nov. 14

As soon as the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his robes and said, “Am I God? Can I kill and bring back to life? Why does this fellow send someone to me to be cured of his leprosy? See how he is trying to pick a quarrel with me!” 2 Kings 5:7 NIV

This man had the wrong assumption. This verse reminded me not to jump into conclusions quickly, know the facts first and act foolishly.

But Naaman went away angry and said, “I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Couldn’t I wash in them and be cleansed?” So he turned and went off in a rage. 2 Kings 5: 11-12 NIV

These verses remind me to rid myself of pride and the feeling of self-aggrandizement. Naaman had this illusion that he was "above" others, that he was powerful and someone with a "name" and very good background. In the human standards, he was the best but a leprosy almost made him an invalid.Yet God provided a way out for him but he did not listen to him and tried to do things on his own. I see myself being like Naaman. I still struggle with my foolish pride and I hate it when it is being "threatened." I did not usually time alone with God and thought I was invincible having things on my own.

Lord, thank You for reminding that it is really essential and a non-negotiable thing that we keep our feet to the ground. Let no bitterness, pride, hate, jealousy and even positive things hinder me to run my own race.

Thank you so much for your inspiration and the blessings you have been giving me.

BEE

November 3, 2011

LORD, when you favored me, You made my royal mountain stand firm; but when you hid Your face, I was dismayed. Psalm 30:7 NIV

I am reminded that the things that have been happening into my life, the good and favorable things are all given to me by God and He allowed those things to pour onto my life. I will always remember that all the things that I have, the nice things come from Him and Him alone so I don't have any right to get glory nor claim any credit to myself. My spirit is sad today for in spite of the favors given me by God, the protection, the blessings I received today, I still had in me the spirit of arrogance and pride. Specially pride that I really need to surrender to Him. This is not a one night only transformation but a daily process for me to deal with. God by His grace, will help me see my follies and change my heart.
Lord, help me remember that when You favor me, You make my mountain stand firm. But when I am consumed with pride and haughtiness,You hide your face from me and I will feel inadequate and alone.
Lord, deal with my proud and arrogant heart. Remind me that all blessings emotional, physical, mental and spiritual all come from You and only You, no one else.
Amen.