A wise Christian leader said, “Humble enough to know I can be replaced. Wise enough to know there’s nobody else like me.” These are two sides of the same coin.
Humility: God uses humble people, and he is against the proud. (James 4:6) God’s grace flows towards the lowest. When a person thinks that God cannot do His work without him, then it is pride and arrogance. King Saul had a foolish thought that he was indispensable; he chose to disobey and rebelled against God. Sadly, he thought he could appease Holy God with fat sacrifices. (I Samuel 15:22)
Nobody else? God has a unique purpose and plan for everyone. God’s call has a purpose, and he provides gifts to accomplish that purpose, which are irrevocable. (Romans 11:29) God prepares a person in His school of affliction. (Psalm 119:71) Joseph was prepared by God to preserve lives and create a nation. Hence, he must be wise to fulfil God’s call and purpose. David was prepared by God to become a powerful king of Israel. God prepared Moses to become the greatest lawgiver in the world. Wise are aware of their preparation, calling, and serving in such a time like this. (Esther 4:14)
Thinking right: Paul warns: “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.” (Romans 12:3) Disciples should think according to the measure of faith, not according to presumptions, wild imaginations, and vague dreams.
Seeking the right: Baruch was an educated and qualified man. His brother was a high officer under King Zedekiah. (Jeremiah 51:9) Hence, Baruch must have sought some ‘great things’ for himself. Better comfort, recognition, and position in the government, or a call to become a prophet like Jeremiah. Prophet Jeremiah warns his assistant not to seek great things, but if he is alive, that itself is a great gift from God.
Am I humble and wise before God?