When Life Throws You Into Reverse

He was at the top of the world. Life was going his way. Private dinners in the White House. People paid him honors and adoration. He had skyrocketed to heights we only dream of. BAM … life came to a screeching halt, even more, it sent him careening in the opposite way. He now plummeted down and lost everything.

Then there are stories of people born of humble means. They scratch and sweat and diligently work hard in difficult environments to over come all odds to succeed. And in humility, they give back to others – using their position to help and lift others out of dire situations.

This life does seem to throw us around at times. You’re finally able to save a little money, and then BAM, a medical expense throws you in reverse. You seem to be getting along with people at work and then BAM, you find out they’ve been working behind your back and take credit for what you did. You’re struggling and wondering how you’re going to pay some bills, and BAM someone has anonymously given you a financial gift and pays the bill to help you. One of the most humorous stories I know that illustrates this happened years ago. A youth pastor (my godfather actually) was in seminary and it was several days to payday … and they had nothing but just enough food to eat. They even ran out of toilet paper. So they humbly took their request to God and asked for toilet paper. Seems awkward to ask the ultimate being, the creator and sovereign God … for toilet paper. But then God showed up. That night, the youth group decided show their youth pastor some love – and they toilet papered their house. Yep. God answers. The couple went out and took the TP off the trees and house, rolled it back up as best they could, and thanked God for answered prayers.

In church yesterday, we saw in Esther 7 that God opposes the proud (Haman in this case) and exalted the humble (Esther). It is a strong reminder to us.

Today … remember you are just a moment away from destruction. But for those who humble themselves, He will exalt at the proper time.

Lord, keep my heart humble, keep my eyes on You, and keep my hands and feet ready to be used by You to help others wherever and whenever I can.