HUMBLING YOURSELF BEFORE GOD

Title: HUMBLING YOURSELF BEFORE GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: James 4:6-10
Supporting Texts: 1 Peter 5:6, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Matthew 23:12, Philippians 2:3-8

INTRODUCTION:
Humility is a key virtue in the life of a believer. It is the act of acknowledging God's sovereignty and submitting to His will. The Bible consistently shows how God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. In this sermon, we will explore the meaning, importance, and rewards of humbling ourselves before God.

1. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE GOD?

a) Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty
Humility begins with recognising that God is the Creator and ruler of all (Psalm 24:1).

b) Surrendering to God’s Will
It involves yielding our plans and desires to God’s purpose (Proverbs 3:5-6).

c) Confessing Dependence on God
Humility means admitting that we cannot succeed without God’s help (John 15:5).

d) Walking in Obedience
A humble heart obeys God’s commandments without question (Deuteronomy 28:1).

e) Biblical Example: Moses (Numbers 12:3). Despite his leadership role, Moses was known for his meekness and dependence on God.

2. THE IMPORTANCE OF HUMILITY BEFORE GOD

a) It Attracts God’s Grace
God gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

b) It Draws Us Closer to God
A humble heart invites intimacy with God (Psalm 34:18).

c) It Leads to Divine Exaltation
God lifts up those who humble themselves before Him (1 Peter 5:6).

d) It Facilitates Spiritual Growth
Humility enables us to learn and grow in the faith (Philippians 2:3-4).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus (Philippians 2:5-9). Jesus humbled Himself, and God exalted Him above all names.

3. HOW TO HUMBLE YOURSELF BEFORE GOD

a) Develop a Prayerful Lifestyle
Prayer acknowledges our dependence on God (2 Chronicles 7:14).

b) Study and Meditate on God’s Word
God’s Word reveals His greatness and humbles us (Psalm 119:105).

c) Serve Others Selflessly
Humility is demonstrated through acts of service (Matthew 20:26-28).

d) Repent of Pride
Confess and forsake any form of pride (Proverbs 16:18).

e) Biblical Example: King David (Psalm 51:1-17). David’s humble repentance after his sin restored his relationship with God.

4. SIGNS OF A HUMBLE HEART

a) Quick to Forgive
A humble person does not hold grudges (Ephesians 4:32).

b) Willingness to Acknowledge Mistakes
Humility admits wrongs and seeks correction (Proverbs 28:13).

c) Patience in Adversity
Humble people trust God in difficult times (Job 1:20-22).

d) Gratitude for God’s Blessings
A humble heart always thanks God (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

e) Biblical Example: The Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14). His humble prayer justified him before God.

5. THE REWARDS OF HUMBLING YOURSELF BEFORE GOD

a) Divine Favour
Humility opens doors to God’s favour (Isaiah 66:2).

b) Spiritual Rest
Humility leads to peace and rest in God’s presence (Matthew 11:29).

c) Victory Over the Enemy
A humble person receives God’s strength to resist the devil (James 4:7).

d) Eternal Reward
Humility secures a place in God’s eternal kingdom (Matthew 5:3).

e) Biblical Example: Joseph (Genesis 41:39-44). Joseph’s humility led to his elevation in Egypt.

CONCLUSION:
Humility is a virtue that brings believers closer to God and positions them for His blessings. When we humble ourselves before God, we align with His will, receive His grace, and experience His power. Let us make humility a daily choice in our walk with God.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me a humble heart that seeks Your will.

2. Father, help me to surrender completely to Your plans.

3. Lord, deliver me from every form of pride.

4. Father, draw me closer to You as I humble myself.

5. Lord, grant me the grace to serve others selflessly.

6. Father, teach me to trust You in every situation.

7. Lord, let my life reflect Your humility and love.

8. Father, lift me up according to Your purpose and timing.

9. Lord, help me to walk in obedience and faithfulness.

10. Father, grant me the joy of intimacy with You.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will walk in the grace of God as you humble yourself before Him.

2. Every root of pride in your life is uprooted in Jesus’ name.

3. The Lord will exalt you in due season as you submit to His will.

4. You shall experience divine favour and open doors.

5. Your life will be marked by peace and rest in God’s presence.

6. You will overcome every attack of the enemy by God’s strength.

7. The Lord will make you a vessel of honour and glory.

8. You will serve others with joy and selflessness.

9. God’s Word will guide you into paths of righteousness.

10. Your humility will bring generational blessings to your family.