PONDER THIS

The people of Israel were living in self-confidence. They were boasting about their greatness. The same thing is true about so many of us. Pride is bad enough, but pride that lifts its head from the mire of failure is terrible. These people were failing to be, do, have, and say what God would have them be, do, say, and have, and they were saying, “Look how great we are.”

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). There’s nothing that will put you more out of the reach of the devil than genuine humility. But if you’re proud, you’re going to find God as an enemy. The Bible says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). And what is grace? Grace is the desire and the ability to do the will of God.

• What are some ways you are tempted to live in confidence in yourself instead of in God?
• How have you experienced the reality that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble?

PRACTICE THIS

Today is the start of a new year. You are likely taking up new practices and setting new goals. Assess your goals for this year through the lens of dependence on self or dependence on the Lord. Take steps to rely further on the Lord this year.

Don’t Settle for Less Than God’s Best

Joshua 17:12-18

In this message, Adrian Rogers shows how we often settle for less than God’s best, and how to have the victory God has planned for us.

Share today’s message 

The Truth of Evil

There is a double standard in education for children today.

Share today’s Treasure