Proverbs 3:5-6
on your own intelligence rely not; in all your ways be mindful to him, and he will make straight your paths.”
As I pondered this passage, the word humility jumped out. I once heard a very wise definition of humility as “the realization that you are not God.” I laughed at first, but then I realized how accurate this was. Whenever I take on the responsibility for everything, trying to be perfect, or living up to everyone’s expectations or desires, I am trying to be God. One need look no further than social media to see all those who expound on their ideas, beliefs, and opinions as the absolute truth, slapping down others’ ideas, to see many examples of people playing God – no room for error or grace for the other. Ironically, this is the exact opposite of who God is. God not only allows, but saves space for the amazing individuality of all of us, desiring faithfulness over perfection, and forgiving all our failings.
When I fix my gaze on God, I am no longer responsible for everything, but rather just my part, which I do in conjunction with God. This brings me incredible peace. As one who has struggled for a life time trying to do it all and get it right, this feels like an amazing freedom. Not only do I not have to do it all or get it all right, I am loved and cared for regardless.
Many non-Christians struggle with this assumed loss of power in deferring to another – to God. But I actually find I have MORE power when I realize there is only one God, and it’s not me! Yes, I have my part to play and I have my God given skills and abilities, which I am called to use. But the rest is not up to me. Whether it works out or it doesn’t, doesn’t depend on me and how hard I try or how well I perform. That freedom allows me to be bolder in my ways, not more timid! When my worth is determined by God's love that never waivers because of my performance, I am freed to follow God's lead without fear.
We all bring baggage from our life experiences, much of which shouts to us that we must be in control or else we won’t be safe or happy or things won’t go right. Yet, the opposite is more of what is needed – that realization and acceptance that we are not in control and things won’t always go right. But we are never alone in it. God is always with us, seeking to bring some good to us, often in the form of a realization, growth, or healing. This is the path God calls us on – the path towards restoration and freedom, which leads us more and more into the loving arms of our Creator.