I am meek ∙∙

I am meek ∙∙

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Learn from me, for I am meek and lowly in heart. – Matthew 11:28-29

1 Peter 3:3-4

3 Don’t be concerned about the external adornment . . .
4 but let it be the inner person of the heart, the lasting beauty of a meek and tranquil spirit, which is precious in God’s sight.

A Countercultural Virtue

Modern Western culture often does not generally see meekness as a virtue. Traits like assertiveness and dominance frequently take center stage, while qualities such as meekness and humility are usually sidelined or misunderstood. Interestingly, even in biblical translations, “meekness” is sometimes replaced with words like “humility” or “gentleness.”

Yet, a few centuries ago, meekness held a place of deep spiritual significance. It was seen as foundational to a godly life. Matthew Henry described meekness as a state of “calm confidence, settled assurance, and rest of the soul. It is the tranquil stillness of a soul that is at rest in Christ. It is the place of peace.” Charles Wesley echoed this sentiment, stating, “The person who bears and suffers evils with meekness and silence is the sum of a Christian man.” Clearly, meekness was once regarded as a hallmark of spiritual maturity and Christlikeness.

Understanding Meekness

What exactly is meekness? It’s often misunderstood as weakness, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Wiersbe clarifies: “Meekness is not weakness; meekness is power under control.” This word in ancient Greek was used to describe things like “a soothing wind, a healing medicine, or a wild horse that had been tamed” (Wiersbe). Each of these examples reflects great power—but power that is harnessed and directed.

Meekness is not about lacking strength. Instead, it’s about submitting your strength to God, allowing Him to guide and refine it for His purposes. It’s the ability to restrain destructive instincts, choosing instead to act with grace and humility.

The example of Tamed Power

When wild animals are tamed, they don’t lose their power or strength. Instead, what changes is their independence and unrestrained instincts. They learn to accept guidance and trust their caretaker. For instance, a wild colt, once broken, becomes responsive to its rider. Its natural “fight or flight” impulses are set aside and replaced by trust and obedience.

The same is true for meekness in the life of a child of the King. By submitting to the Father, we place our instincts and will under His control. We do not lose our strength; instead, we gain a strength that is refined and purposeful.

Lessons from Parrots

The difference between wild and hand-raised parrots illustrates this concept very clearly. Parrots in the wild are fearful and quick to flee at the first sign of human presence. Their instincts for self-preservation dominate. By contrast, parrots raised in captivity that are hand-fed and tamed are completely different. They lose their fear of humans. Instead of fleeing, they draw near. They desire to be with those that are closest to them. They develop love and affection for them and learn to enjoy their touch and “friendship.”

This transformation mirrors the life of someone who embraces meekness. By placing their trust in the Father, they set aside their natural tendencies for self-sufficiency or fear, allowing His presence to replace it with peace and intimacy. Like the tame parrot, they grow to find joy in the nearness of their Creator.

Meekness Reflects Christ

Meekness, at its core, radiates the character of Christ. It grows from a heart of humility, creating a fragrance of peace that sets the children of the King apart. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself described meekness as a blessed virtue, saying, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). Christ exemplified ultimate meekness—strong yet incomplete submission to the Father’s will, choosing gentleness and grace over force.

A Call to Reflect

Consider a deeper understanding of meekness. Are there areas in your life where you’re holding onto independence or striving for control? How can you surrender these to God and let Him nurture meekness within you?

Meekness isn’t about weakness; it’s finding your strength in Christ. It’s about trusting His guidance and discovering the calm confidence of a soul at peace.

REFLECT & PRAY

“Meekness recognizes that the Father is in control and whatever is going on as part of a larger plan. We all need rest, and Jesus promises to give it to us when we find our rest in Him. He will not scold us for being weak or scorn us for being foolish. He promises to gently and humbly refresh our weary souls” (Stanley).

Father, I long to be tamed by You. For me, “power under control” is a work in progress. Regrettably, it is painfully slow work.

INSIGHT

All Authority Belongs to Christ

The Lord Jesus Christ was granted all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). Beyond this, the Father appointed Him with the authority to execute judgment (John 5:27). He is not weak; He is all-powerful. Yet, what makes Jesus extraordinary is how He chooses to exercise His power—with perfect restraint and control.

The Epitome of Meekness

When Jesus described Himself, He emphasized His meek nature. He said in Matthew 11:29, “Learn from me, for I am meek and lowly in heart.” To Jesus, meekness was one of His most appealing and approachable traits. It was through His meekness that He invited others to draw near, assuring them they would find safety, kindness, and understanding.

Jesus does not shame or reprimand those who come to Him burdened. Instead, He tenderly meets them where they are, gently lifting the weight of their weary souls. His meekness creates the perfect atmosphere for restoration and peace.

Meekness as “Power Under Control”

The Greek word for meek, praus, captures “a unique balance of strength and poise.” It can be summarized as “controlled power.” When associated with animals, it means “tame”—an animal that retains its power but is directed and restrained. Praus embodies strength paired with gentleness and in response to the weakness of others. It reflects inner calm, patient self-control, and a serene strength that does not lash out but instead responds with care.

A Picture of Meekness

The image of a lioness with her cubs provides an excellent metaphor for meekness. Picture the firm but gentle way a lioness moves her cubs, tenderly carrying them without harming them. She possesses the power to crush in an instant but chooses to be restrained, embodying calm strength and self-control.

Proverbs 16:32 adds to this idea, saying, “Better to be patient than powerful; better to have self-control than to conquer a city.” A meek person displays strength, but it is always controlled and directed with purpose.

Meekness Versus Resignation

When we face hardships we can’t control, our reactions often reveal the state of our hearts. Some may respond with passive resignation, giving up in despair. This attitude mirrors characters like C-3PO from Star Wars: “We’re doomed” or, “We seem to be made to suffer. It’s our lot in life.”

But meekness offers a radically different path. It is not passive, nor does it accept defeat. Rather, meekness is a deliberate, active choice to trust in God. Meekness is possible because of our confidence and trust in the Father’s goodness and control of the situation.

The Path to Meekness

Meekness isn’t something we can cultivate on our own. It begins with yielding ourselves fully to the Father. As William Barclay so aptly put it, “No man can lead others until he has mastered himself; no man can serve others until he has subjected himself; no man can control others until he has learned to control himself. But the man who gives himself into the complete control of God will gain this meekness.”

Geoffrey B. Wilson adds, “Meekness is the mark of a man who has been mastered by God.”

Reflection on Meekness

Meekness is more than just a desirable trait—it is evidence of a heart transformed by God. It comes when we allow the Father to tame our spirit, redirect our strength, and cultivate within us calm confidence. Surrender to the Master who tames His children with care. True meekness, far from weakness, is strength anchored in trust and guided by grace.

¯_(ツ)_/¯1-11-3

© Dr. H 2025

My Father’s house ∙∙

My Father’s house ∙∙

In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. – John 14:2

John 14:1-6

1 Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.
2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?
3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you so that you will always be with me where I am.
4 And you know the way to where I am going.

5 “No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

6 Jesus told him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.

Longing for Home

Antonin Dvořák, the celebrated Czech composer, found powerful inspiration during his visit to America in the late 19th century. Out of that experience, he crafted one of his most renowned masterpieces, Symphony No. 9, widely known as the New World Symphony. One of the most moving parts of this composition is the hauntingly beautiful Largo, where the English horn conveys deep longing. This poignant melody reflects Dvořák’s own homesickness and yearning for the familiar comforts of home. Dvořák captured the deep sense of nostalgia and the human soul’s profound “longing for home.”

The beauty of this symphony touched President Ronald Reagan so much that he made a heartfelt request for it to be played at his funeral. Honoring his wish, the New World Symphony rang out as a solemn tribute to the memory of the esteemed President, echoing across the ceremony.

A Promise of Hospitality

This longing for home is not unique. It mirrors one of the deepest desires of the human heart. Even the Lord Jesus Christ, as He faced the cross, anticipated and longed for His return home to His Father. Yet, His love for His disciples was so great that He turned His focus to them, revealing an extraordinary truth—His home would one day become their home. He shared that His Father’s house was vast and filled with room for every child of the King. They were all invited! He was going ahead to prepare a place, promising to return and bring them there to dwell with Him forever.

William Barclay beautifully explained this promise, noting that “An earthly house becomes overcrowded; an earthly inn must sometimes turn away the weary traveler because its space is exhausted. But it is not so with our Father’s house, for heaven is as wide as the heart of God, and there is room for all.” The Lord Jesus Christ reassured His disciples and us with these words. Though the world may shut its doors and reject us, the Father’s house will always be open. “Do not be afraid,” He told them. “I go to prepare a place for you.” His promises overflow with tender love and assurance—they would forever have a home with Him.

Comfort for the Hurting

For those of us who understand the joy of a loving home, the thought of heaven as the Father’s eternal dwelling is deeply comforting. For others whose earthly homes may have been painful or unwelcoming, the promise of God’s perfect, welcoming home holds even greater hope and wonder. Imagine the overwhelming joy of being embraced by your Father, not as a visitor, but as His child. His home will become your home. We will bask in His loyal love, enjoying His company forever.

A Glorious Homecoming Awaits

One day, each of us will step into eternity and experience the life to come. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself is preparing this place, uniquely and lovingly, for us. When that moment comes, we’ll be welcomed into the Father’s house—a home without limits, filled with warmth, joy, and the eternal presence of our Savior. There, we will dwell in His love forever.

REFLECT & PRAY

What a fantastic thought. Each child of the King will have their own special place, lovingly prepared in the Father’s house.

Father, thank You for having such a big heart and welcoming me into Your Forever Family. Being in Your presence promises pleasures forevermore. I can hardly wait to experience it.

INSIGHT

The Disciples’ Confusion

The disciples, even after walking with Jesus for over three years, were grappling with confusion and uncertainty. They struggled to understand where the Lord was going. Their lack of comprehension came to a head when Thomas asked a question that many of us relate to in moments of doubt.

John 14:5 – “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

This question arose out of genuine bewilderment. Jesus had told them repeatedly that He was returning to the One who sent Him, but the disciples struggled to grasp this truth. He said, “I will be with you a little while longer, and then I am going to him who sent me” (John 7:33). Yet, they could not reconcile His words with the coming reality of the cross.

William Barclay explains, “At this moment, the disciples were bewildered men. There was one among them who could never say that he understood what he did not understand, and that was Thomas. He was far too honest and far too much in earnest to be satisfied with any vague, pious expressions. Thomas had to be sure. So, he expressed his doubts and his failure to understand, and the wonderful thing is that it was the question of a doubting man that provoked one of the greatest things Jesus ever said. No one need be ashamed of having doubts, for it is amazingly and blessedly true that those who seek will, in the end, find.”

Takeaway: Never be ashamed of your doubts, confusion, or nagging questions. Like Thomas, your honest questions can lead to life-changing answers.

A Promise of Certainty

Jesus’ words carried assurance. He promised to prepare a place for His disciples, and this wasn’t an empty declaration—it was a certainty. Faith in Him would be their key to security, no matter how overwhelming their fears might seem (Tenney).

John 14:2-3 “I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”

What makes this promise so extraordinary? The glory of that place isn’t only in its splendor—it’s in the presence of Christ Himself. “Christ’s presence would make the place glorious. Eternal companionship with Him is the expectation of the saved” (Tenney).

Imagine stepping into the eternal dwelling He’s lovingly and uniquely prepared just for you—welcomed, loved, and never turned away. What an incredible homecoming that will be!

Lean into the security of this truth. He has gone ahead to prepare your eternal place and one day; you’ll join Him there. Forever welcomed. Forever home.

Going home – Bill Gaither

Many times in my childhood when we’ve traveled so far
By nightfall how weary I’d grown
Father’s arms would slip around me and gently he’d say
My child we’re going home

Going home, I’m going home
There is nothing to hold me here
I’ve caught a glimpse of that Heavenly land
Praise God, I’m going home

Now the twilight is fading, the day soon shall end
Lord, I get homesick, the farther I roam
But the Father has led me each step of the way
And now I’m going home

Going home, I’m going home
There is nothing to hold me here
I’ve caught a glimpse of that Heavenly land
Praise God, I’m going home

¯_(ツ)_/¯7-29-3

© Dr. H 2025

Mormon crickets and adversity ∙

Mormon crickets and adversity ∙

I will restore to you the years that the locusts have eaten. – Joel 2:25

Joel 2:18-26

18 Then the LORD will pity his people and jealously guard the honor of his land.
19 The LORD will reply, Look! I am sending you grain and, new wine, and olive oil, enough to satisfy your needs. You will no longer be an object of mockery among the surrounding nations.

21 Don’t be afraid, my people. Be glad now and rejoice, for the LORD has done great things.
23 Rejoice, you people of Jerusalem! Rejoice in the LORD your God! For the rain he sends demonstrates his faithfulness. Once more, autumn rains will come, as will spring rains.
24 The threshing floors will again be piled high with grain, and the presses will overflow with new wine and olive oil.

25 The LORD says, “I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, the stripping locusts, and the cutting locusts. It was I who sent this great destroying army against you.
26 Once again you will have all the food you want, and you will praise the LORD your God, who does these miracles for you. Never again will my people be disgraced.

Mormon crickets are known for the incredible destruction they bring when they swarm. Despite their name, they aren’t true crickets but large, wingless katydids. These insects range in color from black and brown to red, purple, or green, and they grow about 2 to 3 inches long. Although they cannot fly, they crawl and jump, covering over a mile in a single day. When they invade, the devastation is catastrophic. They eat everything in their path—even their own dead.

The name “Mormon cricket” comes from a famous event in May 1848 when they invaded the crops of Mormon pioneers in Utah. By June, their destruction seemed unstoppable—until huge flocks of seagulls appeared on June 9. Over two weeks, the seagulls devoured the crickets, sparing the communities from complete loss.

Even today, Mormon crickets present challenges. Swarms can number into the millions, covering up to 100 insects per square yard and destroying miles of farmland. During a plague, no plant life is safe, and infestations can persist for years. Then they move on. For example, in 2021, Mormon crickets—and grasshoppers—ravaged 10 million acres of rangeland in Oregon. In May 2024, they swarmed Nevada. Their presence even creates hazards beyond farming; in June 2003, crushed insects turned roads “blood red” with slick carcasses, making some paths impassable.

A swarm of insects like this is a vivid image of total devastation—and it’s the kind of picture the prophet Joel painted to warn the people of Judah. Because of their disobedience, God sent an “army” of locusts as judgment, leaving their land stripped bare. Joel described an invasion that caused devastation, unlike anything they had ever experienced. The people of Judah faced terrible famine and poverty.

Joel’s warning is clear. However, he doesn’t stop at judgment—he offers hope. When the people of Judah would repent, seeking God’s forgiveness, the Father promised restoration. What was destroyed would be replaced. What was lost would be returned. Joel 2:25 records the Lord’s powerful declaration of His mercy: “I will restore to you the years that the locusts have eaten.”

This moment points to the very heart of God’s character. But with judgment would come mercy and restoration from the same source. When the people turn from their sinful ways and seek forgiveness and redemption from the Father, it will be given to them.

Habakkuk echoes this truth in Habakkuk 3:2, praying, “I have heard all about you, LORD. I am filled with awe at your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your wrath, remember your mercy.”

There are times in our lives when we feel stripped bare, much like the aftermath of a plague of locusts. Perhaps sin has left us spiritually empty. Possibly, loss or hardship has eaten away at our hope. But God does not abandon us there. When we turn back to Him, He restores what we’ve lost. He redeems our brokenness, pouring out new life where devastation once ruled.

Are there areas of your life where the “locusts” have left their mark? Take heart in the promise of Joel 2:25. When we seek the Father with repentant hearts, He will restore what’s been taken. His grace is sufficient, and His mercy always prevails.

REFLECT & PRAY

What a paradox, if not an oxymoron: the Father is a God of all grace and lovingkindness, yet He is also a God of justice and retribution.

Father, help me to see and recognize my sin and rebellion. Encourage me to repent and seek restoration.

INSIGHT

Even when human life feels marked by losses that can never be regained—“the years that the swarming locust has eaten”—God, who allows hardship, is also the Lord of mercy and grace. He declares, “I will restore to you” (Joel 2:25). What an incredible promise (ESV notes).

Psalm 90:15 echoes this hope, asking, “Give us gladness in proportion to our former misery! Replace the evil years with good.”

The pain we carry—whether emotional, physical, or spiritual—can feel almost unbearable. But in God’s kingdom, brokenness often leads to strength, blessing, and growth. Without faith in our gracious and merciful Father, it’s hard to see how being crushed could result in anything good. Yet, God’s work through suffering transforms everything.

Hebrews 12:11 reminds us, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

The apostle Paul knew this truth firsthand. His life was filled with discouragement, hardships, and trials. He proclaimed, “I die daily” (1 Corinthians 15:31), facing constant challenges that required him to lean on God. Yet, Paul understood how trials develop character, faith, and perseverance in him. For Paul, it was worth it.

2 Corinthians 4:8-10 reveals his perspective:

8 “We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed but not driven to despair.
9 We are hunted down but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.
10 Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.”

Paul saw trials as tools in the hands of God. They weren’t punishments but opportunities for God to refine, reshape, and refocus his life. And that truth applies to us too.

When we cling tightly to our own desires, insisting on what we think is best for our lives, we often prolong the pain of brokenness. But when we trust God with our suffering, even when we don’t understand, we open ourselves to His more excellent plan—a plan to position us for freedom and blessing. He disciplines and guides, not to confine us but to prepare us for what is ahead (Stanley).

As Jim Elliott once declared, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” Surrendering our plans to God may feel costly, but the life and restoration we gain in return are far greater than anything we give up.

Take heart in His promise of restoration. The Father sees your pain, and He will use it to accomplish something beautiful in your life. Trust Him to restore what you thought was lost.

¯_(ツ)_/¯1-05-3

© Dr. H 2025

Misplaced boasting ∙∙

Misplaced boasting ∙∙

A warrior putting on his sword for battle should not boast like a warrior who has already won. – 1 Kings 20:11

Romans 15:17-19

17 So I have reason to be enthusiastic about all Christ Jesus has done through me in my service to God.
18 Yet I dare not boast about anything except what Christ has done through me, bringing the Gentiles to God by my message and by the way I worked among them.

19 They were convinced by the power of miraculous signs and wonders and by the power of God’s Spirit. In this way, I have fully presented the Good News of Christ.

In basketball, the NBA tracks statistics for both baskets and assists. Baskets, also known as field goals, are scoring moments where a player earns two or three points by successfully getting the ball through the hoop.

Often, players don’t score baskets entirely on their own. Teammates contribute to the scoring by assisting—passing the ball to the player who ultimately makes the basket. The NBA defines an assist as a pass that directly leads to a score.

Throughout the history of the game, only seven players have scored over 30,000 points: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (38,387), LeBron James (38,290), Karl Malone (36,928), Kobe Bryant (33,643), Michael Jordan (32,292), Dirk Nowitzki (31,560), and Wilt Chamberlain (31,419). Meanwhile, only one player, John Stockton, has recorded over 15,000 assists (15,806).

Does that mean the rest of the NBA players were slackers? Hardly! Some of us, after all, are a bit height-challenged and haven’t scored a single basket.

While the Father likely isn’t concerned with NBA stats, He is deeply invested in how the children of the King work to spread His message and grow His kingdom.

So, who gets the credit?

In the first century, Paul achieved incredible things in service to the Father. He traveled extensively, taught, and preached the gospel to both Jews and Gentiles. Through his efforts, countless Gentiles came to know the Lord Jesus Christ. From a human perspective, Paul had every reason to boast about his accomplishments. Yet, he recognized that it was the Father working through him who deserved the credit. Paul’s boasting was solely about the Father and what He had accomplished.

It leaves me wondering: who scored, and who assisted?

REFLECT & PRAY

Some truths from the Father are sweet, like delightful morsels that melt in your mouth. But others hit hard—like a ton of bricks. Realizing how easily we fall into boasting can feel like one of those bricks.

Father, I want nothing more than to be a vessel used to do Your will.

INSIGHT

Jeremiah warns us about boasting prematurely. It’s common for people to build themselves up—whether on a sports field or a battlefield. Today, we call it trash-talk. A soldier might boast about their courage before stepping into battle, but words don’t prove real bravery. It’s seen in action, in surviving the fight and enduring the hardship. If Jeremiah spoke today, he might simply say, “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.”

Paul was given a mission, and he successfully fulfilled it. Given all he accomplished, he had every right by human standards to say, “I did it; mission accomplished.” But Paul didn’t go that route. What he did do, however, is a lesson for us all and an example to follow.

There’s a remarkable partnership between the Father and His servants. The children of the King are His hands and feet—the instruments He uses to share His message with the world. God works through our minds, personalities, experiences, and mouths to convey his message to the world. However, it is His wisdom and power that energizes everything we do.

Imagine if the Father were to examine your heart and reveal how often you slip into boasting. When the Father peeled back the layers of Paul’s heart in Romans 15, what He revealed was Paul’s character—his humility and integrity. Paul understood his role clearly. He was just a tool in the hand of God. He didn’t brag about his achievements or seek glory for himself. Instead, Paul marveled at how the Father had chosen to work through him to accomplish His purpose.

When we start focusing on ourselves and all we’ve done, we cross a dangerous line. Instead, we must shift our perspective. The focus should be on what the Father accomplished through us. When we approach life this way, we follow Paul’s example—and we get it right.

What is boasting? The Greek word, which is translated as “boast,” is kauchaomai. This word generally means to “boast,” to “brag,” or to “take pride in something.” Boasting, in itself, is neutral. It can have both positive and negative connotations. It all depends upon who is boasting and what is being boasted about.

In a bad sense, it refers to taking pride in oneself and becoming a braggart. It is all about me! Bad boasting is self-centered. Bad boasting is often nothing more than self-aggrandizement and self-marketing. Paul knows that such self-flattery is dangerous. In a good sense, boasting is all about acknowledging the Father’s worth and expressing confidence in Him. It is all about Him! Good boasting is God-centered.

1 Corinthians 10:12 reminds us, “If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.”

How Should We Boast?

Look at Paul’s example. He gave all the glory to the Father. Every task Paul accomplished started and ended with God. The results were God’s, not Paul’s.

Paul himself says in Romans 15:18, “I dare not boast about anything except what Christ has done through me.”

Think about the Little League player who swings with all his might and barely taps the ball. It dribbles toward the pitcher, who fumbles and throws it wild. The batter dashes around the bases as the ball gets tossed over heads and into the outfield. He makes it home while smiling from ear to ear. “That’s my first home run!” he exclaims. But was it really his home run? Or was it the result of a series of mistakes and mishaps? Like that child, it’s easy for us to take credit for outcomes that aren’t entirely ours. But Paul reminds us—we shouldn’t boast about ourselves. If we boast, it should only be about the Lord (1 Corinthians 1:31).

The temptation to boast is part of our sinful nature. But how we handle that temptation matters. Worse than boasting about our sin is tolerating it—downplaying, excusing, or even celebrating it. The Corinthians fell into this trap. Instead of calling out sin, they boasted about their tolerance. But Paul confronted them directly, saying, “Your boasting about this is terrible” (1 Corinthians 5:6).

The Corinthians had grievous sin in their midst. But they did not call out sin as sin? The Corinthians compensated instead. Rather than condemning it, they found excuses for it. Sin needs to be dealt with overtly. Sin needs to be called out for what it is and dealt with. Overlooking it only leads to greater harm.

Are you guilty of boasting abuse? When you reflect on your heart, what do you see? Do you give credit where it’s due—to the Father? And when you see boasting or sin in others, are you willing to confront it with love and truth?

The Father’s truth can be hard to face, but it’s always what we need to grow to maturity in our faith. May we follow Paul’s example, choosing humility and giving all glory to God.

¯_(ツ)_/¯1-03-3

© Dr. H 2025

Rembrandt – Painter of the Soul ∙

Rembrandt – Painter of the Soul ∙

The Pharisee stood by himself and said, “I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector” – Luke 18:11

Isaiah 6:5 Woe is me, for I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies.

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, simply known as Rembrandt (1606–1669), widely regarded as one of the greatest artists of the Dutch Golden Age, earned the title “The Dutch Painter of the Soul.” What made Rembrandt stand out among the gifted artists of his era was his uncanny ability to capture the depth of human emotion, inviting viewers not only to observe but feel the stories he painted.

One of the hallmarks of Rembrandt’s work was his masterful use of light and shadow. He often employed a technique where light seemed to emerge from the surrounding darkness, imbuing his compositions with a profound sense of mystery and transcendence. This interplay of illumination created a three-dimensional quality as if the scene reached out toward the viewer. Light sources in his works—whether a humble candle, a radiant window, or the divine glow emanating from the face of Christ—served more than a practical purpose. They symbolized spiritual revelation, truth, and grace. A stunning example of this is his painting “The Supper at Emmaus,” where the face of Jesus radiates a celestial light, drawing the viewer into a moment of divine encounter.

Rembrandt’s deep connection to the Bible, inspired by the stories his mother read to him as a child, shaped the heart of his art. He didn’t merely illustrate Scripture—he entered into it. As an artist and as a man, he saw himself not separate from the flawed and sin-ridden characters on the canvas but as one of them. Laurel Gasque observed. “Rembrandt not only read the Bible, he participated in it. He identified with all the characters he portrayed, knowing he was a sinner in need of redemption.” Rembrandt’s art became a way for him to explore and express the grace of God revealed through Jesus Christ.

Painting His Own Story

Perhaps most compelling was Rembrandt’s habit of inserting himself into his paintings. His self-portrait emerges in numerous biblical compositions, subtly or boldly, as a visual confession of his need for grace. For instance, in The Raising of the Cross, he shows himself in contemporary clothing, wearing a painter’s beret at the foot of the cross. Through this self-insertion, Rembrandt declared that Christ’s sacrifice was deeply personal—Christ died for him.

Rembrandt’s life itself bore the marks of human frailty and divine grace. He wasn’t a stranger to failure. His extravagant lifestyle led him into financial ruin, and his struggles appeared in his work. One of his rawest confessional pieces, The Prodigal Son in the Tavern, features a self-portrait of Rembrandt as the wayward son, squandering his inheritance in worldly indulgence. Through his art, he acknowledged his faults, his brokenness, and his need for redemption.

Joining the Story

Rembrandt painted biblical scenes as living, breathing realities instead of distant myths or idealized fables. And as children of the King, we are invited into the same story. The Bible is not just a historical record—it’s a mirror reflecting our own souls. When we see its characters wrestle with life’s trials, we must ask ourselves, how would we respond? Will we distance ourselves, rationalizing, “I am not that bad? Comparatively speaking, I’m better than most. Hey, God’s just lucky to have me.”? Are we tempted to think ourselves superior, like the Pharisee in Luke 18, who prayed, “I thank God that I am not a sinner like everyone else.”?

Or will we allow Scripture to lead us into self-examination and find ourselves coming up short? Do we enter into the sorrow and pathos or the joy and worship showcased in the Scriptures? Will we, like Isaiah, come face to face with God’s holiness and see ourselves as we truly are—imperfect, unclean, and deeply in need of grace?

“Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips.” – Isaiah 6:5

Isaiah’s confession was not born of despair but of revelation. He didn’t see himself as he truly was until he encountered the Father’s excellent majesty. It was then that he realized his faith was shallow and insincere. Seeing God opened the eyes of his heart.

“For the first time, he sees that he’s typical of his generation, whose faith was unthinking and glib. Their mouths were not filled with seraphic worship but with flippant repetitions and self-justifying excuses. But now Isaiah sees himself because he sees God. And something new is entering his heart – humility” (Ortlund and Hughes).

REFLECT & PRAY

“Isaiah’s whole life changed when he saw the majestic Lord seated on His heavenly throne. His awesome vision of God pierced him to the very core and prompted him to cry out, ‘I am a man of unclean lips . . .. For my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts’” (Stanley).

Father, thank You for the gift of the Scriptures, which show us real people facing real challenges rooted in situations that mirror the human experience. Through their stories, You call us to examine ourselves deeply. Encourage me to respond in faith, to view myself clearly through the lens of Your truth, and to dedicate my life to serving You.

INSIGHT

The Path to Humility

True humility begins with an honest self-appraisal. It means recognizing both our strengths and weaknesses without denial or exaggeration. It invites us to celebrate our accomplishments while facing our failures and to accept our limitations while using and developing the gifts God has given us. Humility thrives in truth. It does not belittle itself, nor does it boast—it stands grounded in the Father’s view of who we are.

Scripture was designed by the Father to guide us in this process, revealing who we truly are beneath the surface. What Rembrandt captured with brushstrokes, God’s Word achieves through its piercing power. It reaches deep into the core of our being, exposing thoughts, desires, and motives for what they are.

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” – Hebrews 4:12

But there’s more! He also sent His Holy Spirit to convict and transform us. The Spirit shines light into the shadows of self-deception and exposes our selfish, sinful, self-exalting tendencies.

“And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.” – John 16:8

The Greek word elegcho, translated as “convict” or “convince,” conveys “being examined and scrutinized” in a way that leads to the acknowledgment of our wrongdoing. This exposure, though humbling, is not meant to condemn. Its purpose is redemptive, awakening us to our sins and leading us toward repentance and renewal.

Isaiah’s Humbling Encounter

Consider the prophet Isaiah. Before his encounter with Almighty God, could it be that he thought of himself as a good man, even faithful in his service? But everything changed when he stood in the presence of the Holy One. The thundering cry, “Holy, holy, holy,” shattered any illusion of Isaiah’s righteousness. At that moment, his perceived goodness crumbled into a realization of unworthiness. He was crushed. His cry of despair—“Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips . . ..” (Isaiah 6:5)—was a desperate acknowledgment of his sinful state.

This is the essence of humility. Isaiah didn’t compare himself to others; instead, he measured himself against the holiness of God. Confronted with divine perfection, his pride dissolved into a cry for mercy.

And mercy came swiftly. One of the seraphim touched Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal, declaring, “Your guilt is removed, and your sins are forgiven” (Isaiah 6:7). Cleansed and transformed, Isaiah was ready. When the call came—“Whom shall I send?”—he responded with boldness and surrender, “Here I am. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8).

Warren Wiersbe aptly observed, “Before we can minister to others, we must permit God to minister to us. Before we pronounce ‘woe’ upon others, we must sincerely say, ‘Woe is me!’” Like Isaiah, those who humbly confess their need for grace experience transformation as they are prepared to serve.

The Heroes of Faith

Isaiah wasn’t alone in his sense of unworthiness. Many of Scripture’s greatest figures demonstrated humility as they encountered God’s holiness.

• “I am but dust and ashes.” – Abraham (Genesis 18:27)
• “I am not worthy of all the unfailing love and faithfulness you have shown to me, your servant.” – Jacob (Genesis 32:10)
• “I am nothing—how could I ever find the answers? I will cover my mouth with my hand.” – Job (Job 40:4)
• “Who am I, O Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?” – David (2 Samuel 7:18)
• “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—and I am the worst of them all.” – Paul (1 Timothy 1:15)
• “Oh, Lord, please leave me—I’m too much of a sinner to be around you.” – Peter (Luke 5:8)

Each of these individuals encountered the truth of their humanity against the backdrop of God’s majesty and grace. Instead of turning away in shame, they humbly embraced grace and became instruments of His purposes.

Called Into Transformation

As flawed humans who, when confronted with God’s holiness, we are called into self-awareness and humility. The beauty of grace lies in this simple, profound truth: God does not leave us as He finds us. He meets us in our brokenness and invites us into transformation. He lifts us, cleanses us, and equips us.

Humility leads to surrender. And like Isaiah, may we respond with devotion, saying, “Here I am. Send me.”

¯_(ツ)_/¯8-02-3

© Dr. H 2025