What do you think of when you hear humility?
What do you think of when you hear the word humility? Maybe it is someone who is really good at something, but does not brag about it. Maybe instead you thought of a person who might not be great at something specific, but is consistent at admitting when he or she is wrong. Humility is something that is sometimes hard to put your finger on, but it is something that God values and it says so in His Word. Titus 3:2 says, “They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.” Humility is something that we can show others, as well as something that we can embody.
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” CS Lewis
Something that I see a lot in my office, particularly from Christians, is the feeling as if they cannot say anything positive about themselves without it being “boastful” or “not humble.” Often when I give some push back on these ideas, the response is usually, “Well, I am still a sinner.” I can agree that we are not to be arrogant, but is the opposite of that to degrade ourselves? Certainly not! Scripture says there are several instances where those who are in Christ are called “saints” instead of “sinners.” It appears that biblical humility would instead mean that we need to think rightly and accurately of ourselves. This can include our fallenness, but it also includes our future glory too.
As Christians we can accept and give praise (encouragement and/or compliments) freely. We can do this all the while fleeing from puffing up our own or another person’s ego. The writer of Hebrews says in Hebrews 3:13, “But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” There is value in building one another up, especially in the Lord. We are called to encourage others, and we can also receive encouragement from them. Accepting the goodness that comes from our relationship is something that God desires for us!
All in all, it is admirable to take the focus off of ourselves. We are called to exalt Jesus and not ourselves. But sometimes this can go too far! You deserve encouragement and growth, and you can stay humble along the way.
By Marissa Halstead
