In this issue of The Sower, Humility vs. Pride, we continue exploring fundamental matters related to our ministry’s 2010 theme of “Building on the Firm Foundation.” Exposing the insidiousness of pride is fundamental to building healthy relationships and godly community, especially since pride’s very nature is to deceive those who are overtaken by it. Pride is epidemic today in our post-modern culture, especially in the United States. From a prideful heart and a desire to “have it my way” spring all forms of evil behaviors such as manipulation, control, envy, slander, and malice towards others. This is why God so vehemently condemns pride, even going so far as to say that He “hates” it (Prov. 8:13).
In our lead article, Pride is Poison, Mike Patten demonstrates how pride is like poison in our system. Even though it is not always apparent, it is nevertheless producing damaging results. Even more sobering is the fact that the Body of Christ is not immune, but has indeed been infected with this serious problem. As Mike states, “Pride is a choice to lift one’s heart and to set up idols that pacify it. Conversely, humility is a choice we make to submit ourselves to God and not allow anything between our heart and the Father.”
Our Contender article, “What is Humility?” by John Schoenheit helps us by defining what true humility is. Humility is submitting ourselves to the will of God and obeying Him. Humility is expressed as believing what God says and doing what He asks. It is an attitude of the heart that naturally recognizes that we are lower than God and owe our lives to Him. We learn about humility from studying the words and actions of Jesus Christ, the only perfectly humble person who ever lived. Finally, we have to resign ourselves to the fact that developing and maintaining a humble heart takes constant work and great courage.
This month also features an inspiring article by Dan Gallagher titled “Whiter than Snow” in which he discusses some records in the Old Testament that demonstrate how we can choose to be covered with holiness through humility or covered like the snow of leprosy through pride. Our Vine article, also by Dan Gallagher, discusses how humility, when expressed through love, is always focused on putting others first. Fuel for the Fire, by Joshua Anderson, is a wonderful exhortation illustrating that we often fail simply because we do not have a battle plan for defeating a temptation.
Figures of Speech by John Schoenheit introduces us to the figure “asterismos” (Indicating), which is a figure an author uses to catch the reader’s attention by saying, “Pay Attention,” or “Listen up.” God uses this figure with the use of phrases such as, “Behold” or “Verily,” or “Look.” We are also blessed to feature international Partners Michael and Claudia Zahn of Germany in our Partner Profile. And finally, we hope you enjoy the “Dear Sower” section, which features some of the feedback we have received about our various activities.
We trust you will once again be both blessed and inspired as you enjoy this issue of The Sower, Humility vs. Pride.
