Eight Things I Learned from David Needham

Earlier this week, David Needham, my former teacher at Multnomah Bible College, passed into the presence of the Lord at the age of 94. During the past few days, I have been reflecting upon his profound influence on me. Here are eight things I learned from my beloved teacher. 1. Awe in the Presence of … Continue reading Eight Things I Learned from David Needham

14 Problems with Humility

There are multiple problems with humility. Here are 14, in no particular order: Problem #1: Humility is difficult to write and talk about because the moment someone starts talking (or writing…) about the need for humility, that person’s own pride begins to appear—like I’m facing right now as I write. I wonder if this is … Continue reading 14 Problems with Humility

Diagnosing Pride: A Checklist

How can you identify that you have a problem with pride? Following are 14 diagnostic questions that I recently adapted from a set of “rules” (advice) written by 17th-century clergyman Jeremy Taylor to help Christians grow in humility.[1] Personally, I have returned a dozen or more times to Taylor’s advice over the past 25 years, … Continue reading Diagnosing Pride: A Checklist

Humility and Prayer

Humility supports prayer, and prayer supports humility. First, humility supports prayer. Suppose that I enter into a time of prayer arrogantly. When I address my heavenly Father—who, by the way, is also the Creator, Sustainer, and Judge of all the world!—I might start addressing him casually, as though he’s my homeboy. I might start thoughtlessly … Continue reading Humility and Prayer