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The Sovereignty of God (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod humbles His people through trials and the circumstances of life in order to prove their hearts, test their obedience, and prepare them for eternal life in His Kingdom. This process ensures that at their latter end they receive the good He intends, for He deals with them according to eternal stakes rather than the temporary leniency shown to the wicked. Humility is therefore not optional but the essential attitude of willing submission that produces obedience, and obedience in turn leads to the honor, riches, and life that God alone can bestow. Without humility there is no genuine submission, no sustained obedience, and no preparation that qualifies one for exaltation. Prayer serves as the daily, verbal exercise that cultivates this humility by compelling the one who prays to acknowledge personal inadequacy, creaturely dependence, and the surpassing greatness of God. In drawing near with a contrite spirit, the believer is brought into the presence of the most positive and righteous attitudes in the universe, an encounter that both chastens and uplifts according to need. Because humility attracts God and moves Him to draw near, the prayers offered in this spirit become more effective instruments for aligning the petitioner with His will. The same humility that prayer fosters also enables the believer to accept God's answers, whether they grant the requested relief or withhold it for a greater purpose such as preserving character. Thus God's humbling work, advanced through prayer and the pilgrimage of life, keeps His children on the path toward the destiny He has already determined for them.
Israel's Missing Characteristics of God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Faithfulness is living continually by faith, acting even though doing so may cost us. Love is not primarily a feeling, but faithfulness in applying God's Word.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Ten)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughLike Job, we must surrender to God's will and purpose for our lives, realizing that both pleasant and horrendous times work for our spiritual development.
Narcissists! Get Real!
Commentary by Martin G. CollinsAs Haman demonstrates, God deposes the proud and will bring them low. We must learn to humble ourselves under God's hand, and He will exalt us.
Living By Faith: Humility
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Paradoxically, God stoops to us when we humble ourselves. Humility produces honor from God; if we humble ourselves, He will hear us.
From Pride to Humility
Sermon by John O. ReidTwo tests to reveal the presence of pride are the way we treat others (especially our own family) and the way we receive instruction or correction.
Pride, Humility, and Fasting
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe intent of fasting is to deflate our pride—the major taproot of sin—the biggest deterrent to a positive relationship with God. Humility heals the breach.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Nine)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPride elevates one above God, denigrating any dependence upon God, replacing it with self-idolatry. We ought to boast or glory in the Lord instead of ourselves.
Faith (Part Seven)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughPride is a perverted comparison that elevates one above another. Because of its arrogant self-sufficiency, it hinders our faith. Faith depends on humility.
Potential for Good
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe chief tool we can use to do good (building positive relationships between other people) is to develop and exercise the mind of God within us.
New Covenant Priesthood (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWithout thanksgiving and praise, our prayers degenerate into the 'gimmes' with the emphasis on the self. We must give God thoughtful thanks in every circumstance.
Thoughts on Job
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloJob's righteousness, though genuine, may have rested more on exceptional personal discipline than on a full understanding of God and His purpose.
Lead Us Not Into Temptation
Sermon by Ryan McClureIt is solely God's prerogative to test and to prove, while Satan's function is to tempt, to trip up, and to destroy. God tests but does not tempt.