Humility is a character trait that is often defined as the absence of arrogance and the recognition of one’s limitations.
In other words, it is the ability to see oneself clearly and honestly, without exaggerating one’s importance or accomplishments. It is also the willigness to learn from others and to acknowledge that one does not have all the answers.
THE IMPORTANCE OF HUMILITY
Humility is important because it brings us closer to God.
” God opposses the proud but shows favor to the humble”.
James 4:6 (KJV)
This means that if we approach God with humility, acknowledging our limitations and surrendering our wills to Him, we are more likely to receive His favor and blessings.
Pride, on the other hand, separates us from God and makes it harder for us to receive His help and guidance. Humility also helps us to relate better to others.
When we are humble, we are more likely to be patient, kind, and understandding with others.We are less likely to judge or criticize them, and more likely to see them as fellow human beings who are struggling just like we are.
THE HUMILITY OF JESUS
Perhaps the greatest example of humility is Jesus Himself. Philippians 2:5-8 says, “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus”.
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself b becoming obedient to death — even death on a cross”!
Jesus, who is God, became a human being and lived among us, submitting Himself to ridicule, rejection, and ultimately death on the cross. He did this out of love for us and to show us the way to true humility. If we want to follow Jesus, we must be willing to humble ourselves and serve others, just as He did.
