Journal entry February 21, 2026

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up in honor. James 4:10

Father I'm thinking about that whole dynamic of humbling oneself and being lifted up in honor. This verse is preceded with the thought of coming close to You, and You then will come close to us.

I can't help but smile about who's writing this. James the half brother of Jesus. One who was in the "skeptic camp" rather than the "believing camp" until the resurrection and ascension of his brother. Now he's one who identifies himself as a bond servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. And in Jesus now, he's thinking about his journey perhaps. He's speaking from personal experience, which is the best kind. James knows that if one in humility confesses his sin that You are faithful and just to forgive his sin and a cleanse him from all unrighteousness. You will "honor him".

Father I thank you for hearing our humble cries for mercy. Thank you that when we humbly come before you acknowledging our sin and asking you for forgiveness that You honor us, You draw near to us. What a beautiful privilege You have given to us. For You to sent Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to be the Way the Truth and the Life for us which is truly, amazing grace. Thank You in Jesus name. AMEN AMEN