Sunning Turtles

I came across there three turtles in a Texas botanical garden. It was clear that they were sunning themselves on that rock, but what caught my attention was that the adult and baby turtles all looked exactly alike with necks stretched and heads held high while the rear legs were extended far to the back.

Now, I understand that this is just a characteristic of the species but for some reason I was thinking about how people will often resemble these turtles. While positioning themselves above others and their noses raised high, they look down on others as less significant, less worthy, and less valued.

The Apostle Paul wrote, "I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think." (Romans 12:3)

The Psalmist wrote (Psalm 75:4-5)...
I say to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,’
and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn;
do not lift up your horn on high,
or speak with haughty neck.’”

Someone may have more money than another, but in God's eyes both are equally valuable and treasured. One may have a more elevated job than another, but the doctor and the janitor both stand on level ground at the foot of the cross.

Jesus said, "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:12

Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. Peter wrote, "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." (1 Peter 3:8)

So, let's not be sunning turtles, but don't be turtles that are constantly hiding in a shell of safety or protection either. If you are in the position to lead, teach or influence others then do so without pride and haughtiness but with a servant heart and humility.