Humility

It is completely natural for a person to want recognition. We want to achieve much in this life. The following scriptures give us insights on the proper balance of humility in our lives. 

 

Proverbs 13:10 – Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.

The person lacking humility tends to think they know better, and therefore has stopped learning. They may look at themselves as superior to others, and therefore are unable to gain from anything another has to offer. 

 

Proverbs 16:18 – Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.

Our pride is going to lead to our own demise. It is often the case that what we think is an occasion for boasting is really us embarrassing ourselves. When we defend our actions from a position of pride, we can look like a fool. And most will not take the opportunity to point out our flaws to us, so it is usually us who is the last to know when our pride is showing. 

 

Proverbs 29:23 – Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor.

When we let our pride run our lives, we try to add value to ourselves, but in result we end up in a lower position. However, when we put others first, even at our own expense, we gain a higher glory then anything that this earth can offer. 

 

Luke 14:11 – For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

This world is often upside down compared to the things of Heaven. This world would say we should do whatever we can to gain status, at any expense, so we are put above others. However in reality, it is putting others first that results in real gain. 

 

Isaiah 66:2 – Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?” declares the Lord. “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.

We have nothing unless God has given it to us. So it is no wonder that the Lord favors those who appreciate this fact, as opposed to trying to take credit for his blessings, and degrading his intentions with our own silly and childish pride. 

 

A whole lot more can be said on this topic, but I must stop here for the sake of brevity. I encourage you to listen to some of the sermons on these topics as well, if you would like fed more on this issue.