Wednesday, March 22

Self-important

Scripture: Hebrews 3

Deuteronomy 8:12–14 When you eat your fill, when you build and occupy good houses, 13 when your cattle and flocks increase, when you have plenty of silver and gold, and when you have abundance of everything, 14 be sure you do not feel self-important and forget the Lord your God who brought you from the land of Egypt, the place of slavery,

Deuteronomy 8:17–18 Be careful not to say, “My own ability and skill have gotten me this wealth.” 18 You must remember the Lord your God, for he is the one who gives ability to get wealth; if you do this he will confirm his covenant that he made by oath to your ancestors, even as he has to this day.

Observation

Today I’m journaling from my other reading plan (see below).

The Lord through Moses warned the people not to forget God, particularly when they prosper and have “an abundance of everything.” Don’t “feel self-important” and don’t say “my own ability and skill have gotten me this wealth.” Remember the Lord and that He is the one who gave you the ability to gain wealth. 

Yes, your skills and abilities generated success and prosperity. But where did those skills and abilities come from? The Lord!

Don’t forget that.

Application

Here is the danger of success and prosperity. We become self-important, proud and forget God. I’ve heard someone say, “When God is all you have, you know that God is all you need.” Conversely, when we get abundance, it’s easy to grow complacent and forget God. 

I’m not arguing that we should avoid success or prosperity. Quite the opposite! I believe that God wants to prosper and bless us. But in that abundance, we need to remember God, stay humble and grateful, acknowledge that all that we have comes (directly or indirectly) from His generous hand. Don’t get proud—it’s the kiss of death. 

Prayer: Lord, I love You. I’m grateful for the success and prosperity You’ve given me. I confess that sometimes I get “self-important.” Forgive me, and help me to stay humble, hungry and grateful. 

More: Deuteronomy 7-8, Psalm 35, Matthew 22