READING: Genesis 11:1-26, 1 Chronicles 1:24-27, Genesis 11:27-14:24
It’s a battle most (if not all) of us face at some point in life. In fact, we probably deal with it most of our life. It can be a subtle thing, but it also be a powerful, luring force in our lives. Indeed, the world almost rewards it.
“It” in this case refers to our pride. In today’s reading, the people who built the tower of Babel had at least one clear motive for their actions:
- “This will make us famous . . .” Gen 11:4, NLT
- “let us make a name for ourselves” ESV
- “and let us make us a name” KJV
It may not be that we want to become “famous,” but our desire to be known is real. We want to be recognized and affirmed. In our sinfulness, we want others to magnify and elevate us. Even the most humble people I know sometimes find themselves asking, “What can I do now to make sure others know who I am?” It is one thing for God to say to you what He said to Abraham—”I will make your name great” (Gen 12:2)—but it’s another thing to say, “I want my name to be great.” May God bring us to the place where all we want is to make known the name of Jesus—even if it costs us to do so.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Check your heart for the issue of pride in your life. Repent as necessary.
PRAYER: “Father, I want to make Your name famous. Not mine.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Genesis 15:1-17:27
