Thursday, April 18, 2013

Chap. 108---Proper Level of the Human Mind



"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up".
James 4:10.

"What gives the proper level to the human mind? It is the cross of Calvary.
By looking unto Jesus, who is the Author and Finisher of our faith, all the
desire for self-glorification is laid in the dust. There comes, as we see aright,
a spirit of self-abasement that promotes lowliness and humbleness of mind. As
we contemplate the cross, we are enabled to see the wonderful provision it has
brought to every believer. God in Christ ... if seen aright, will level human
exaltation and pride. There will be no self-exaltation, but there will be true
humility."

"The light reflected from the cross of Calvary will humble every proud
thought. Those who seek God with all the heart, and accept the great salvation
offered them, will open the door of the heart to Jesus. They will cease to ascribe
glory to themselves. They will not pride themselves on their acquirements, or
take credit to themselves for their capabilities, but will regard all their talents as
God’s gifts, to be used to His glory. Every intellectual ability they will regard as
precious only as it can be used in the service of Christ."

"Christ’s humiliation in clothing His divinity with humanity is worthy of our
consideration. Had this subject been studied as carefully as it should have been,
there would be far less of “I” heard and far more of Christ. It is self-esteem
that stands between the human agent and his God and impedes the vital current
that flows from Christ to enrich every human being. When we follow Jesus in
the path of self-denial and the cross, we shall find that we do not have to strive
for humility. As we walk in Christ’s footsteps, we shall learn His meekness and
lowliness of heart. Very few thoughts should be devoted to self; for we can never
make ourselves great. It is Christ’s gentleness that makes us great."

"God’s faithful, humble, believing people will cut the idolatry of self out of
their hearts, and Christ will become all and in all."

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