Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Bible in a Year: Isaiah 29-33 | Romans 2

I don’t know what private conversations my parents had with God, but as a father of four, and hoping for more, I imagine they weren’t always easy. Parents like to project strength, but parenthood, like many things, damages our human armor. 

I had a front-row seat to Mom’s parenting adventure. She was fierce, bold, and strong-willed. She’d had enough and said enough, so she uprooted four kids to take on life independently. Unfortunately, Mom wasn’t able to do everything. Disease weakened her body, but her spirit grew stronger as she openly admitted her shortcomings. Things got worse, but God strengthened relationships, opened doors, and gave her the courage to pass the parenting torch, giving her children a chance to live for more. 

My father’s journey wasn’t as simple for me to understand. I imagine he wrestled with the truth. Eventually, I believe his honesty with God strengthened his voice. Though we hadn’t spoken in years, he called when my oldest daughter was born, and I answered. 

It’s not always easy, but God heals the version of us that is honest, not the one that pretends.

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

A person’s view of humility is often infused with self-degradation. You start to believe that your limitations and poor self-esteem equals a lack of you. You think, “I can do this on my own,” or “I can quit anytime I want.” A false view of humility causes a need to seek validation through success, relationships, and attention.

Too often, you attempt to play God. You refuse to delegate heavy workloads. “I’m sorry” isn’t part of your vocabulary. You pretend to be better than what you are - preventing others from seeing the real you.

Humility is surrendering honestly to God, who already knows the real you. God wants you to admit that you’re not greater than his love. Ask for the help he wants to give, and you’ll find strength in his love. God will bring peace in your storm, purpose after surrender, and healing after you let go of your pride. 

Findlay’s Student Director, Zeeke, loves the acronym H.O.T. - humble, open, and transparent. Start your conversations with God in this manner, and in time, he will repair what’s broken. Be H.O.T. with others, and they will respect your honesty and appreciate the authentic relationship you offer.

Questions: 
Where in your life are you pretending? Why is it difficult to humble yourself? 

How can you present the real you to a handful of trusted people?

Next Steps: 
Be vulnerable in your prayer life by expressing fear, anger, guilt, doubt, and perplexity. Take notice of others and see how you can add value to their lives. Don’t be afraid to share your struggles with others, and be open to accepting their wisdom.

Prayer: 
God, please strip me of my ego and replace it with the necessary tools to walk with confidence rather than be controlled by pride. Help me be gratitude-driven and satisfied with what I can do, rather than focusing on what I can’t. Let my words be a refuge instead of an attack, especially in difficult moments. Amen. 

Series Theme Verse:
Galatians 5:13
For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 

This post was written by Jaron Camp, a Findlay attendee and regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.