Do you remember a specific time that you were humbled by something? One time for me was around 2010. My husband and I owned a business that was not financially where it needed to be and I had to apply for a food card. In those days you had to physically go into the DHS office to get an application. Nothing was done online yet. I walked in a bit apprehensive. I had been there before as a single mother who lived in a trailer park and was often referenced with the rest of them as “white-trash”. Even when I found full-time work it was hard to make ends meet. But I kept at it and worked my way out of the system becoming the manager at a few different places and eventually the co-owner of a business, and we did well except for some serious financial mistakes. I earned a higher status in society, in my mind, but there I was again; standing in line.

I looked around and thought to myself, “God, I don’t belong here.” To which I heard the reply, “Why not? What makes you any better than any of them?” I was humbled in a way I have never forgotten. I had been concerned about worldly things; food, money, and my reputation, yes, my reputation; God forbid if one of my customers should see me! Would they lose their trust in our shop? 

“Be sensitive to each other’s needs–don’t think yourselves better than others, but make humble people your friends. Don’t be conceited.” (Romans 12:16) Is it enough to be humbled just once? Maybe for some but not for me with my stiff-neck. When I consider some of the places I have found myself, I don’t understand how I could have let it happen. I have been the addict on the floor, the drunk who could barely stand, the all-night partier, the mother who lost her teenage son to the system, and yes, even an adulteress. I am most humbled by Father sticking with me through all of my shame-filled years. I picture Him hiding behind a tree, as I once did–following my little runaway to make sure he stayed safe. When darkness began to fall he returned home. So did I and Father not only forgave me but redeemed me by making me one of His messengers. About my position as a messenger, I have said that I don’t belong here and Father’s reply is, “Why not?” 

I truly believe you cannot take pride to heaven. If you find your rightful place at the end of the line Father will come get you and bring you to the front.