The Mirror of the Word and other works by C.E. White can be purchased on her website, cewhitebooks.com or on Amazon.

“Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.”

—Matthew 23:12

If we try to make sure we receive our due in this world, we will be humbled. But if we do not concern ourselves with recognition, we will be exalted. That doesn’t make sense to our human nature; it’s hard not to seek acknowledgment we feel we deserve.

And each day includes thousands of moments in which we can exalt ourselves or humble ourselves. We’ll usually know which one we’re doing if we take the time to check, but if were not sure, we can ask ourselves these questions.

Do we resent doing the work God’s placed in front of us? Are we annoyed when others ask for help or something interrupts what we planned to do? Are we doing things hoping that others respond to us in a certain way, or are we content even if they don’t acknowledge or notice what we’ve done? Are we kind even when others make mistakes or act selfishly? Are we judging other people in our thoughts? Are we doing things only because we expect something in return?

On the other side, are we loving people even though we see their flaws? Are we doing our duty to God’s glory even when it’s hard and we don’t feel like it? Are we trusting that God sees our right actions even if others don’t notice them? Are we building people up and loving them as Christ loves them? Do we seek to serve or believe we should be served? Are we willing to put others ahead of ourselves?

May we learn to submit to the Holy Spirit, humbling ourselves in every action and every thought.

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