Golden Nugget: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Daily Verse: “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”—Matthew 23:12

Daily Message:
Have you ever watched Undercover Boss? Each show is about a CEO or owner of a business who pretends to be an entry-level employee in their own company. They work alongside their employees, dealing with the day-to-day challenges and joys of working for their company. More often than not, the CEO is deeply and positively impacted by the experience. Episode after episode proves that when we humble ourselves, we become wiser, more self-aware, and more respected.

The inverse is true as well. When we exalt ourselves, we quickly become detached from what’s real. Our lens of reality becomes distorted and we aren’t able to see ourselves or those around us very well. We end up looking ridiculous—and we don’t even realize it. It’s a messy cycle.

The way God designed us and the world we live in will always prove this truth: Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted, both in this life and the life to come.

Consider This:

• Can you think of a time when you tried to show off and you were humbled instead? 
• Is it difficult for you to receive criticism from people? Why or why not?

Take Action:
Find someone who knows you really well and ask a question like this: “How self-aware do you think I am? Be honest!”