Biblical Answer

Humility in a World of Pride and Success

The Value of Humility

In a world where pride and success often seem to be the ultimate measures of worth, humility stands out as a rare and valuable virtue. Humility is not simply a matter of having a low opinion of oneself, but rather a realistic assessment of one's strengths and weaknesses. It involves recognizing that we are creatures, dependent on God for every aspect of our lives. As Andrew Murray notes, human humility is grounded in our very existence as creatures, and it is only when we acknowledge this dependence that we can truly be thankful and dependent on God.

The Danger of Pride

Pride, on the other hand, is a lie that distorts reality. It is an inflated view of oneself, which can lead to a hardened heart and a lack of dependence on God. When we are proud, we tend to think that we are self-sufficient and that we can achieve our goals without God's help. But this is a false sense of security, and it can lead to a lack of gratitude and thankfulness. As the Bible warns, God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. This means that when we are proud, we are not open to God's guidance and wisdom, and we are not able to receive the blessings that He has for us.

Embracing Humility

So what does it mean to live a life of humility? It means recognizing our dependence on God and being thankful for His provision and guidance. It means being willing to adjust our theological understanding and moral judgments as we learn and grow. It means being willing to take responsibility for our actions and to live out the implications of our faith. Humility is not just a feeling or a attitude, but a way of living that is grounded in a deep understanding of our place in the world and our relationship with God. By embracing humility, we can experience the blessings of God and live a life that is truly fulfilling and meaningful.