Biblical humbleness is to understand the authority that we have and using it for the benefit of the MISSION.
But I also want you to think about how this keeps your significance from getting blown up into self-importance. For no matter how significant you are, it is only because of what you are a part of. 1 Corinthians 12:19 MSG
It’s easy to recognize an Army Ranger, even out of uniform. It’s not a pride thing. Warriors know that if they are strong, capable and prepared then they are strong, capable and prepared. Why shouldn’t they walk with confidence? Warriors also understand that their power doesn’t come from their individual strength. Their power comes from their Unit, their preparedness for battle and their willingness to serve something larger than self.
- As Christian Warriors, our power comes from our UNITY with Christ and the body of Christ.
- Our preparedness for larger battles comes from smaller battles as we submit to what Christ did for us on the Cross.
- Our meekness comes from serving HIGH by serving LOW.
Gideon didn’t hesitate to stand before the 300 and have them proclaim “…a sword for God and for Gideon.” His 300 served God by serving Gideon. They served Gideon by serving (sacrificing for) Israel. You can’t TEACH truth unless you PROCLAIM truth. Why would that be considered cocky?
Sanctified Cockiness
The bible is full of stories whose characters, if viewed through contemporary eyes, appear cocky to the point of arrogant. The Message version’s David and Goliath account even has his older brother’s calling him “cocky.” After this brotherly chastising, David didn’t back down and allow someone else to fight Goliath. He went boldly before the King and prophesized his victory. David’s previous accomplishments, all using God’s power, gave him confidence bordering on contemporary “cockiness.”
God, who delivered me from the jaws of the lion and paws of the Bear, will deliver me from this Philistine. 1 Samuel 17:37 MSG
David then boldly proclaimed his forthcoming victory directly to Goliath; rightly prophesying that he would not only defeat the giant but cut off his head.
- This is the same Sheppard who continued to serve Saul in spite of the multiple efforts to pin David against the wall with his spear.
- The same David who repented for cutting Saul’s robe in the cave.
- The same David who lashed out in anger at the one who failed to heed his orders to allow Saul and his family to live even after Saul’s army was defeated.
David knew that he served God by serving Saul. He also knew that he was anointed by Samuel to be the next King of Israel. And yet his meekness, the desire to serve others before serving yourself, kept David from killing Saul and taking the Kingdom before he was fully prepared.
A Warrior knows that the challenges faced in the heat of battle (life) prepare him for HIS ROLE in the Mission.
Now, walk in the confidence of that truth…
JimC
Jim Crumbley uses his life experiences and experience in the Marine Corps (the good and the bad) to strengthen the church and build people. He and his wife Dona are on the Pastoral team at the C3 Church in Lawrenceville, Ga. 
