by Pastor Rich Carlson 

There is an interesting "give-and-take" in 1 Peter 5:7-10, in which I found quite a few applications for my life today:     

"Clothe yourself in humility towards one another.” It's so easy to get stuck on myself, as if I am important in this world. I am important in this world, but not for my sake. I am important for Christ's sake.  When I make it for my sake, I get proud or arrogant; when it's for Christ's sake, I am reminded of my rightful place in this life, and humility is the blessing.       

"Humble yourself under God's mighty hand.” This humility thing must be important in the Christian walk because Peter chooses to remind me twice—first in my relationship with others, then in my relationship with God. If I put myself humbly under His control, I will be lifted up at the right time.

"Cast all your cares (or anxieties, some versions say) on Him.” The reason to risk casting all my concerns on Him is that He cares for me. When I realize He cares for me, I'll know it's safe to place my burdens on Him. And when I place my burdens on Him, I'll realize that He is a safe place.       

"Be self-controlled and alert.” I need to make good decisions with my life because even though God is on my side and He cares deeply for me, my enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking to devour me. I resist him by standing firm in my faith. My faith is established by humbly trusting God and being careful about what I choose to let into my life.

And the conclusion in verse 10 is that "the God of grace… will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." I like that! How about you? Have a great day finding out just a little more about the importance of our humility and God’s faithfulness.  

Rich Carlson is campus chaplain at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. "God is Faithful" is adapted from the email devotionals he writes regularly for the Union College family. Rich enjoys filling his life with God, his family, and especially his five grandchildren.