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Word Windows
by John W. Samples
from
the
Lookout,
February 9, 2003
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"For to me, to live is Christ and to die
is gain . . . . but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body."
Philippians 1:21, 24
Humble
Arrogance
I am intrigued by the way Paul
discussed the value of his own ministry. To suggest that his death would be
a good thing for him because he would be with Christ, but that it would be
better for others if he stuck around awhile, seems rather boastful.
Some friends and I were
discussing people God brought into our lives at the right times. Then we got
to talking about whose list we would be on. As each of us feigned
humility and avoided any appearance of pride or impropriety, we started
talking about Paul. Suddenly his "boastful attitude" took on a new meaning.
As I reviewed my list of
coaches, bosses, peers, parents, and even enemies that God has used to touch
me, encourage me, or otherwise get my attention, I was impressed that God
would love me enough to work through those people for my benefit.
Now who's being arrogant?
If we remember only the people
God uses to help us, and not the people he is helping through
us, we are likely to become pretty self-centered.
I am grateful for the helpers
in my life, but I am more humbled that God can use me through my failures
and weaknesses to touch other people's lives. I'm beginning to suspect that
Paul's arrogance is in reality a humility I have only begun to glimpse.
JSam
January, 2002
