3 Inspirational Thoughts for Better Living

Embrace Humility

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. Philippians 2:3

Those who are slaves to pride do anything to maintain the illusion that they are more capable, more worthy and more significant than others. Pride prompts people to do any number of horrible acts to those they think are lesser beings than themselves. Pride is the original sin — it was Satan’s sin in heaven and the sin he promotes among human beings (Isaiah 14:13).

The cure for pride is cultivating humility. Humility is being honest about who we really are before God. Humility is recognizing who God is: the King of kings and Lord of lords. Being empty before God is the only way he can fill us with himself.

Take a moment now and ask God to show you your pride.

Show Kindness

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

God extends kindness to us even when we do not deserve it. In the same way, we are called to reflect God’s kindness to others, regardless of how they choose to respond.

Don’t wait for a crisis to extend loving-kindness to others. Take the time to ponder who is suffering from a recent heartbreak. Maybe they could use a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on. Who feels discouraged in your circle of friends? Maybe they need to hear an encouraging word. Who might feel alone? Perhaps you could pick up the phone and tell them that you care. Be faithful to do your part and watch God’s encouragement work in their lives.

Would people who know you quickly identify you as a kind person? Who is someone who could use some extra kindness in their life? What act of kindness for this person can you do this week?

Build Others Up

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

If others listened in on your conversations, would their lives be changed for better or worse? Would they hear you speaking about the character flaws of others as if they were physical defects, or would they hear that you consider others beautiful in God’s eyes? Ask yourself if your words build up or tear down.

Do your words push others away from you or draw others near? Most important, do they draw others to God?

Words to take with you today. Humility. Kindness. Uplift.

These devotionals were taken from the NIV Busy Mom’s Bible.