Humble Submission = Joyful Hope

But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. James 4:6-7,10

My hope this morning, the eternal promise of God's grace, humbles me before Him as I think about what He wants for my life. I'm not talking about whether he wants me to take a particular job, buy a new house, what college he wants my daughter to go to. I'm not even referring to which church I attend or not. There are certain things God wants for all of us so that we can live with joy in his abundance. (John 10:10)

Obedience is one. He has given us his Word to use as a guide( 2 Timothy 3:16) and His son to model our behavior after(Ephesians 5:1). In the Bible there is guidance for any and all situations in our lives. As we spend time reading and studying the perfect Word of God he will speak to us and give us the right path to choose.(Psalm 119:105) He will enlighten our minds and encourage our hearts when needed. He will also bring a spirit of conviction on us bringing to the forefront of our minds the behaviors, thoughts and desires that we need to change because they are contrary to His will.(John 16:8)

Submission to His will and way. Knowing that He is in control ( Philippians 3:21) and has our best interest in mind (Romans 8:28) is key to a relationship with God. We have to recognize who He is in all his glory. We have to give Him first place in our lives (Deuteronomy 5:7) above and beyond all else. If we humble ourselves before him, he lifts us up (James 4:10)!

Rejoice! We must rejoice in the Lord Always (Philippians 4:4)! Circumstances cannot be the meter by which our joy is gauged. Joy in the Lord our security in Him and being His. Knowing that He will care for us (1 Peter 5:7). He chose us((John 15:16), and loved us first (1 John 4:19) in spite of our sin (Romans 5:8)! How Awesome is that!

Lord I thank you for your provision, your Word and your grace. Without you, life would be hopeless and without joy. I pray you show me, all the more, how to live my life to please and honor you. Help me make wise choices, especially those that bring me ever closer to you.