Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will
flee from you. - James 4:7
Shortly after the Civil War, General William T. Sherman's army
was scheduled to march in a victory parade.
The night before the parade, Sherman called General Oliver
Howard to his room and said, "General, you were at the head of one of the
divisions that marched with me through Georgia, and you should rightfully ride
at the head of your division in the parade tomorrow. However, I've been asked
to let the general who preceded you in command represent the division."
General Howard replied, "With all due respect, sir, I think
I am entitled to represent my division, since I led them to victory."
Sherman said, "Yes, you are. But I know you're a Christian,
and I was wondering if you would yield your rights for the sake of peace."
Quickly, Howard responded, "Of course, I'll yield."
"All right," General Sherman said, "I will
arrange so, and I want you to report to me in the morning at 9:00 a.m. You will
be riding with me at the head of the parade."
General Howard's willingness to yield his position to his
commander led to an even greater position of honor. Just the same, God blesses
those who are completely submitted to Him. Psalm 51:17says, "The sacrifices
of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not
despise."
PRAYER CHALLENGE: Pray
that God would give you a submissive spirit so that you can fully be used by
Him.