A Crock-Pot God (1 Peter 5:6)

A command with history

Peter says, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time." The "therefore" signals that this isn't new. Proverbs already said God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble. "Mighty hand" calls back the hand that split the Red Sea.

Due time

God promises to lift you up. He doesn't promise when. Borrowing a line from his pastor, DeWayne says we want microwave results from a Crock-Pot God.

Good pride, bad pride

Someone asked if it's wrong to be proud of being a Christian. No, and it's fine to be proud of your kid's report card. Pride becomes a problem when it pushes God out. One participant admitted he's humble when life is hard and drifts into pride when it's easy. Another said God is still speaking in the good times. We're just too busy to hear.

A phone call

DeWayne told how a pastor friend praised his business and he never once credited God. He called back to confess. The friend laughed and said God already knew where his heart was. It was still a good check.

Try this

• Spend a prayer this week on nothing but gratitude.
• Read 1 Peter 5:6-7 together and cast one specific care on Him.