Humility
Dear Friends,
The dictionary defines humility as “a modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance or rank.” Under that definition, demonstrating humility might be a pretty hard pill for some people to swallow because it doesn’t sound like a whole lot of fun. Thankfully, the Bible sheds a brighter light on things. It tells us that humility is a state of mind that is pleasing to God, it gives us peace and tranquility, and it helps keep us patient when facing life’s trials.
In today’s world, true humility is a rarity. Our culture tells us to look out for ourselves, seek what we believe we are entitled to, and fight to get ahead. Through television ads, websites and competition with their peers, children learn that it's important to have more toys/money/electronic gadgets than anyone else … or at least enough to “keep up with the Joneses.” Doesn’t sound too humble, does it?
How do we mirror Jesus’ life and live with humility? It’s not easy, but the path to most blessings is not always straight and smooth. It takes a conscious decision about how we think and act. It takes effort to overcome our natural tendencies to think highly of ourselves. It means not focusing on what we think we deserve, especially in the area of material possessions, and being grateful for what we have.
Everyday, we have the opportunity to humble ourselves and be pleasing to God. For instance, if we learn that a co-worker got the promotion we thought we deserved, we can choose to be resentful or we can choose to share in their joy and congratulate them. If we make a financial recommendation to a client that nets great results, we can be prideful and take credit for our advice, or we can give all the credit and all the glory to God and His guidance. Think about all the wonderful people who have set aside their own lives to travel to Haiti and volunteer their time and talents to perform decidedly difficult and in many cases menial tasks. They have put the needs and interests of others ahead of their own in a major way. If those volunteers can care for the sick and injured and dying under such catastrophic circumstances, surely we can act more humbly with our colleagues, family and friends?
Showing humility can be as simple as suppressing our pride. Start praising others, not in a vain way by recognizing their clothing or possessions, but by acknowledging they are in your life as a gift from God. Humbly listen when others tell you their troubles, and recognize that God is using them to teach you, too. If you need more encouragement, read Philippians 2:3-4 which tell us “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Make seeking humility an active process and strive to embed it as a central part of your nature.
Recall a time when you realized your pride was taking over, in time to act with humility instead of being boastful or resentful. How did it influence your interaction with other? How did it make you feel? How did it deepen your relationship with God? Share your stories and inspire others to continue to trust in and rely on the Lord.
Blessings,
Ron
Amen Ron. What a great savior we have in Christ. Supreme example of Humility-born in a manger not the Ritz Carlton. Born to die so others could live. Total obedience to the Father. Total contrast to what the world teachs. To God be ALL the glory, honor and praise.
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If only we can learn to ask for God's grace to give us humility. This will help us to the avoid the great fall which was experienced by Lucifer.
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My copy of Humility is almost completely highlighted with my yellow marker. Many lines are also underlined. Its been that impactful. A great book for all who pursue humility.
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God is so good. I did not see this message until today which is pretty late but that was God's plan because he just last night tested me on this very subject. I cannot say that I passed or failed but He has been gracious to give me some direction and "Corrective Critism". Thank you for being obedient and for allowing God to work through you!
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