Humble

Though this piece is small at just 5×7 inches, its message and subsequent composition hits big. Using mixed media — a combination of inks, acrylic paint and paper — the focus is an abstracted figure in deep thought. The figure is resting, meditating, praying whilst on a seat of the Word. If you look closely you can see the Romans 8:1 passage at the base:

There is no condemnation now for those who live in union with Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit, which brings us life in union with Christ Jesus has set me free from the law of sin and death. “

Wow. How cool is that!? God’s promise to His followers is as simple as it is powerful. And it’s right there in those two sentences.

I admit that sometimes, because of the sacrifices I’ve made of my own flesh to become a completely different person than who I once was, I get a little high on my own achievements. I think: Wow. I did that. No condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. I’m in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah!

But when I let that sink in for a minute, something deep inside corrects me, reminding me: dude, that ain’t you at work. That’s God at work. That’s Jesus. That’s the Holy Spirit.

My intuition is pride. It’s that I want to boast of my achievements. I want to take credit and pat myself on the back and point out to everyone all the changes I’ve made.

Then I remember on whose power and on whose authority I actually accomplished anything. If it were simply left to me, I never would have made it this far. Not even close.

So I as rest each morning in the Secret Place, I remind myself to be a humble servant. I remind myself to not boast and seek attention or admiration outside that of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Humility leads to grace and grace leads to salvation.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. “

1 Peter 5:6-7

A-to-the-MEN, y’all.

Meanwhile, can you find the hidden word in this piece? How about the hidden symbol? Tell me in the comments!

If interested, this painting is currently available via the Art Machine Gallery in Houston, TX, open Saturdays, 12pm to 5pm.