For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. Romans 12:3

 It’s in the news on a daily basis, people in high positions are brought down by poor choices, sometimes illegal actions that put them in jail. A recent news article about a traveling preacher who committed sex crimes against children generated a lot of comments on social media. The majority of them focused on religious leaders who seem to frequently commit these horrible offenses, giving non-Christians an excuse to not darken the door of a church building. Many commented the following: who wants to be a part of that if that’s what Christianity is like.

 You might be thinking to yourself, well, I’m not like that and consider yourself a genuine child of God. That’s good, but there’s a danger in having a self-proclaimed evaluation of yourself. Pride can be rooted in those thoughts, making you believe your actions, whether good or bad, are justifiable because you are a “good Christian”. God’s not looking for good Christians. Jesus Christ even said it himself in Mark 10:18: “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God”. So what is God looking for in His children?

 And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. Micha 6:8

 God wants to do a work in your life, but it requires an attitude of humbleness, not focusing on your strengths, but relying on God’s Holy Spirit to fulfill His purpose in you. Spiritual achievements only happen because of the work God is doing. Taking credit for God’s work is a no-no and He considers it pride. Giving God the glory He deserves and living a humble life only happens when you take your eyes of yourself and stay focused on God. When you do, the fruits of your labor will be recognized by God and rewarded in Heaven. Any blessing you receive in this life is simply an indicator that God is living in you and through you for His glory.