Humble Love

1 Samuel 2:3 Talk no more so very proudly; let not arrogance go forth from your mouth . . .

When we can do something well, or when we reach a personal goal, we tend to feel good about those things. As long as we feel positively about ourselves in a balanced way, it's fine. When we become proud and fail to be merciful toward others who struggle with things we have mastered, it's a problem.

I am fairly disciplined in my eating habits, and I recently spent a week with someone who really struggles in that area. She mentioned several times how disciplined I am and how undisciplined she is. Each time she did so, I said, " I have areas of weakness also, and you will overcome this as you continue to pray and make an effort."

There was a time in my life when I would not have been so sensitive to my friend's feelings. I probably would have given a sermon about the dangers of overeating and poor nutrition. But I would not have succeeded in doing anything but making my friend feel guilty and con¬demned. I have discovered that one way to love people is to help them not to feel worse about things they already feel bad about.

Meekness and humility are two of the most beautiful aspects of love. Paul said that love is not boastful (see I Cor. 13:4). Love never wants to make people feel badly because they cannot do what we can do. Instead of bragging about our strengths, let's thank God for them and encourage those who are weak in ways we are strong.

Love Others Today: What are some things you do well? Be merciful and humble toward people who are struggling in those areas.

Credit: NLT - Joyce Meyers - HS - TM