November 5

Generally speaking, man enjoys recognition for his accomplishments, notoriety for his contribution to the well-being of people in general. We bask in the perfume of the accolades we receive for our good work. The Nobel Prize has even been conferred upon man’s ‘good intentions.’

Bill Gates, one of the world’s most successful people of all time, takes a more practical view. He is purported to have said that one should achieve something of note before having self-esteem. The Nobel Committee, by Mr. Gates’ definition, seems to have it backwards.

From a spiritual perspective, the one thing that is most amazing and noteworthy that any of us can attain is something that does not cause pride or self-esteem to well up within. Quite the contrary! It causes humility to pervade our perception of ourselves and gratitude to overflow our hearts.

I Corinthians 6:19 says, “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received from God?” We have the Holy Spirit—that same Spirit by Whom God created all things, by Whom Christ was raised from the dead—within us! Oh what cause for humble joy!