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By Mike Chaffin
When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. Proverbs 11:2
The antidote for pride is humility. In fact, a multitude of problems are avoided when we cultivate a humble spirit. Pride is a sin rooted in the problem of thinking we are all there is. Humility is wisdom knowing we are not and acting accordingly.
An extremely useful verse to help overcome pride and cultivate humility is found in Philippians,
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8
These are thoughts that keep us grounded and when we are we can be humble and receive God’s blessings. Zephaniah ties being humble with being in God’s will.
Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord’s anger. Zephaniah 2:3
Jesus reiterated the blessing when He listed it at the top of the beatitudes, the list of blessings.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3
One of the defining traits of being poor in spirit is being humble. In humility we confess we need the Lord not only daily but every second of the day. We understand we depend on our Lord and Savior for His guidance and provision.
Humility is not to be confused with passiveness. It isn’t about being shy, cowardly, or lazy. Our calling is actively do good works, told to spread the good news, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. We perform our Christian duties not thinking we are better than those we aid, or witness to about Christ. Our attitude is to be the same as Jesus had when He was here, one of a servant.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, Philippians 2:3
One of the best songs to describe mankind’s struggle with pride, and what we must realize to keep us humble is “I Can’t Even Walk Without Holding His Hand, by Jaime Wilson.” Give it a listen.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for showing us how to live. You command us to let your light shine through us so others may see our good works and glorify God in Heaven. Help us to remember those are works we can only accomplish through you, and not in our own strength. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12
