Isaiah 23:9. “The Lord of hosts hath purposed it, to stain the pride of all glory, and to bring into contempt all the honorable of the earth.”
TO STAIN PRIDE. The area of life where we think we are the strongest, Is often our weakest point. We think, of all the things we know, this one will last the longest - And in our pride, we ourselves anoint. But the Lord of hosts has the final say - He knows just what to do - To stain the pride of heart in His own way - And bring us low before He is through.
Sometimes the pride of accomplishments Brings an honor we didn't expect. And in our heart, we know embellishments Have covered over areas of neglect. God knows the whole from beginning to end - Nothing escapes His eyes. He has at His disposal, the very thing to send - To bring me all the way down to size.
Gushing flattery may come at times, And we secretly hope it is true. But underneath the facade, I know they are lies; And reality is hidden from view. So, I am wise if I refuse to accept the praise: God knows – and so do I, That if I persist in inappropriate ways - God has His way of dealing with pride.
“All knowing God, my Father: I pray of Thee today to keep me aware of my limitations and help me to choose genuine humility. I know myself well enough, that I can often see the treachery of my own heart. There are other times when I am blinded by pride. Save me from myself. O Gracious Father. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”