So man will be brought low and mankind humbled, the eyes of the arrogant humbled. (Isa. 5:15)


I STOOD AT A WORKBENCH inside the metal warehouse. The sweltering July heat made it hard to breathe. My clothes were soaked with sweat. I felt miserable.

Along with being uncomfortable physically, I was angry. Due to an unexpected financial situation, I had to find employment. The summer days I planned to enjoy were now filled with manual labor.

Frustrated with the boring and monotonous job before me, I complained to God.

“Why me, Lord? I became a teacher so I could have my summers off. I have a college education. This job is for someone else; certainly not for me.”

Immediately upon expressing those words, I heard a voice in my head say, “Why not you? Someone has to do it. You are no better than anyone else.”

Humbled upon hearing those words, I thought of the parables and accounts in the Bible about arrogant Pharisees who praised themselves and condemned others. Jesus warned them about being haughty. In Luke 18:14, He said, “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

God does not condone haughtiness, but He rewards a spirit of humility. When we are tempted to think of ourselves more highly than others, we must remember that Jesus gave His life for everyone. We are all valued in the eyes of God.

Ask God to replace any arrogant thoughts with a spirit of humility and thankfulness.

Sheryl Baker is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She likes to sing, read, write, and bring hope and encouragement to others.