A critical character trait in the life of a leader is humility. I actually believe that pride can lead to great fear and humility can lead to exceptional boldness. I also believe that humility has to be anchored in a secure identity, an identity that stands outside of self–an identity that is realized in our Creator and His redemptive plan. I am offering a Puritan prayer today for your consideration. It comes from The Valley of Vision. It is entitled “Humility of Service.”
Mighty God,
I humble myself for faculties missed, opportunities neglected, words ill advised, I repent of my folly and inconsiderate ways, my broken resolutions, untrue service, my backsliding steps, my vain thoughts.
O bury my sins in the ocean of Jesus’ blood and let no evil result from my fretful temper, unseemly behavior, provoking pettiness.
If by unkindness I have wounded or hurt another, do thou pour in the balm of heavenly consolation;
If I have turned coldly from need, misery, grief, do not in just anger forsake me:
If I have held relief from penury and pain, do not withhold thy gracious bounty from me.
If I have shunned those who have offended me, keep open the door of thy heart to my need.
Fill me with an overflowing ocean of compassion, the reign of love my motive, the law of love my rule.
O thou God of all grace, make me more thankful, more humble;
Inspire me with a deep sense of my unworthiness arising from the depravity of my nature, my omitted duties. my unimproved advantages, thy commands violated by me.
With all my calls to gratitude and joy may I remember that I have reason for sorrow and humiliation;
O give me repentance unto life;
Cement my oneness with my blessed Lord, that faith may adhere to him more immovably, that love may entwine itself around him more tightly, that his Spirit may pervade every fiber of my being.
Then send me out to make him known to my fellow men.
The post Humility in Service appeared first on Gary Runn.