Humility

The degree to which we have allowed God to work radical humility in us is the degree to which we can be trusted with spiritual authority.

"Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." (Philippians 2:5)

The degree to which we have allowed God to work radical humility in us is the degree to which we can be trusted with spiritual authority. What is spiritual authority? It is the power to influence. The power to influence thought and behavior. This authority is granted, not taken. That is why people who survived the holocaust did so by not surrendering their minds. This authority is granted out of relationship and being granted favor to speak into the life of someone else. God does not force His authority upon us even though He has the right as the Creator.

Often when we see God intervene in human history it is to make things right by bringing justice. This is why justice and righteousness are the foundations of God’s throne. Becoming humble is a way for God to trust us with spiritual authority or spiritual influence. Humility is the broad shoulders upon which the heavy burden of spiritual authority can only rest and be carried.