Higher Everyday

Key Verse

“And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them. And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man” (Acts 12:21-22).

Text —Acts 12:20-24

Message

Thrown up and down, the truth must always prevail in all situations of life. Records of humiliation in the Bible and in contemporary times reveal that humiliation of a number of people is always preceded by pride. Pharaoh, Goliath, Hamman and the rich fool were all ruined by pride. Overestimation of one’s worth, disdainful behavior and arrogance are traits of the proud.

Herod’s pride began to gather momentum when he killed James the brother of John without any resistance. As an absolute king, he decided to kill Peter too. But God stopped him as the church prayed. The text for meditation shows how King Herod was humbled and humiliated. Filled with pride, he equated himself with God. Right there on his throne before his subjects, he was eaten by worms. What a terrible humiliation! God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Some children are proud because of their rich background or God-given abilities. If you are in that category, pray out pride from your life. Pride goes before destruction. Pray for grace to be humble before God and man.

Quote

He equated himself with God

Challenge

Humility leads to exaltation but pride brings disgrace.

Prayer for today

Grant me more grace to be humble, Lord.