Printed from: https://archive.cmf.org.uk/doctors/devotion/?day=16&id=devotion&month=8
Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you. James 4:10
The Revelation to John, chapter 5, paints a vivid picture of the magnificence, greatness and worthiness of Jesus Christ. There he is exalted, seated at the right hand of God the Father, where he still bears the unhealed wounds of his crucifixion. 'Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing' (Rev 5:12 AV). Yet it was this same Jesus who completely humbled himself, and made himself of no reputation in the eyes of the world, becoming a slave to men, and dying a criminal's death (Phil 2:7-8).
As members of the medical profession we are given by society many privileges. We have benefited from educational opportunities and have financial security. People turn to us in their need and entrust us with the most intimate details of their lives. We are given the ability to heal and allay suffering. All this affords us considerable status in the world and enhances our feeling of self-worth. Yet God expects us to have Christ's humility. In our work self-righteousness, ambition and pride are tremendous stumbling blocks, and our hearts can easily be hardened by them. It is a dangerous path we walk. Satan offers us worldly success, reputation and comfort, and he often acts in a very subtle way to destroy our relationship with God. If we accept what he offers us, we are denying Christ and his perfect example. It is important to remember that righteousness comes from God alone on the basis of faith (Phil 3:9), and that only through faith in the living God will be exalt us.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your life and sacrifice. Work
in me, Lord, exposing any false pride or self-righteousness
that I may be clinging onto, and creating in me the same
humility that you displayed.
Further reading: Mt 23:2-12.
GB
