Biblical Answer

The Value of Humility in Times of Pride

Humility is a vital virtue that is essential for living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings. In times of pride, humility serves as an antidote, helping us to adopt a realistic picture of ourselves and to recognize our strengths and weaknesses. According to the Bible, pride is a lie that distorts reality, and humility is a virtue that allows us to see ourselves accurately. This is exemplified in Jesus, who humbled himself to the point of death on the cross, demonstrating the ultimate form of humility.

Humility is not about thinking poorly of oneself, but rather about having a realistic assessment of who we are in relation to God. It involves acknowledging our dependence on Him and being thankful for His grace. As Andrew Murray points out, human humility is grounded in our existence as creatures, and we are beholden to our Creator for every aspect of our lives. Humility also involves a commitment to truth, adjusting our theological understanding or refining our moral judgments as needed. This dedication to truth is essential for living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings.

In contrast, pride is a false advertising campaign that involves setting oneself up as being more valuable than we truly are. It can manifest in various ways, such as pride of position, ability, achievement, possessions, knowledge, or spiritual or moral attainment. Pride can also lead to judgmental behavior towards others, which is not in line with Scriptural teachings. Therefore, humility is essential for living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings, and it serves as an antidote to pride by helping us to adopt a realistic picture of ourselves and to recognize our dependence on God. By embracing humility, we can live a life that is marked by moral strength, integrity, and a deep dependence on God.