Picture a heavy oak vessel floating on a wide ocean, completely sealed shut with a tight wax plug. No matter how deep or vast the surrounding ocean is, not a single drop of clean water can enter the sealed vessel. It remains totally dry inside simply because its opening is blocked by its own rigid barrier. Pride and self-sufficiency act like that wax plug, sealing our hearts off from the boundless ocean of God's grace. In active addiction, we built thick walls of arrogance and self-reliance just to protect our fragile egos. Humility is simply pulling out the plug. It isn't putting ourselves down or believing we are worthless; it is simply admitting our limitations and asking God to remove our shortcomings. When we humble ourselves, we open our lives to receive His lifting strength. | 
