The Strength of Humility
In the kingdom of heaven, God values weakness and dependence on Him, rather than human strength and achievement.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the paradox of humility in the kingdom of heaven, where the weak are made strong and the proud often find themselves ineffective. He points out that human standards of strength and courage can lead to spiritual defeat, as God values humility and reliance on Him over carnal confidence. Tozer reminds us that true strength comes from God, who empowers the faint-hearted and distances Himself from the proud. The sermon challenges listeners to reconsider their definitions of strength and success in light of God's perspective.
Text
In the kingdom of heaven, weak things become mighty and mighty things often prove to be useless. God seeth not as man seeth, and the things that are held in high esteem among men may be scorned by the Most High God, maker of heaven and earth.
That carnal courage so prized in the kingdom of Adam may be the direct cause of constant and humiliating defeat among Christians. God will not be under the necessity of using fleshly means to accomplish His spiritual ends. The bold ?strength of character? which helps men to forge to the front, to get the best jobs, to overawe their opponents, may stand squarely in the way of all efforts to progress in the life of the Spirit. God still gives courage to the faint, and He knoweth the proud afar off.
Sermon Outline
- The Kingdom of Heaven's Values points: - Weak things become mighty - Mighty things often prove useless
- God's Perspective points: - God sees differently than men - The Most High God rejects human values
- Carnal Courage points: - A hindrance to spiritual progress - Fleshly means are not necessary for God
- The Strength of Character points: - A barrier to spiritual growth - God gives courage to the faint
Key Quotes
“God seeth not as man seeth, and the things that are held in high esteem among men may be scorned by the Most High God, maker of heaven and earth.” — A.W. Tozer
“God still gives courage to the faint, and He knoweth the proud afar off.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Recognize that God values weakness and dependence on Him, rather than human strength and achievement.
- Rely on God's power and courage, rather than your own fleshly means.
- Seek to progress in the life of the Spirit, rather than relying on carnal courage and human strength.