Biblical Answer

The Value of Humility in the Face of Success and Recognition

Humility is a vital virtue in the face of success and recognition, especially when our actions have a ripple effect on the world. As the Bible reminds us, humility is a commitment to embracing truth wherever it leads, even if it means adjusting our theological understanding or refining our moral judgments (Ezek. 28:2). This commitment to truth demands responsibility, and humility is the attitude that enables us to live up to that responsibility. When we are humble, we recognize that our accomplishments are not solely the result of our own efforts, but also the result of God's grace and the help of others.

In the face of success and recognition, humility prevents us from becoming haughty or arrogant. Instead of boasting about our accomplishments, we give credit to those who have helped us along the way. This is not a false sense of humility, but a genuine recognition of our dependence on others and on God. As Andrew Murray points out, human humility is grounded in our very existence as creatures, and we are beholden to our Creator for every aspect of our lives. When we are humble, we are grateful for our accomplishments, but we do not let them go to our heads. We remain thankful to God and dependent on Him, rather than becoming arrogant and self-sufficient.

The value of humility in the face of success and recognition is not just personal, but also has a ripple effect on the world. When we are humble, we are more likely to use our success and recognition to serve others and to make a positive impact on the world. We are less likely to become self-absorbed and more likely to remain focused on our mission and purpose. As the Bible reminds us, "the connection between a person's key attitude (haughtiness in the heart or core of our being) and the consequences that will often follow (breaking or wrecking)" (Ezek. 28:2). In other words, our humility or lack thereof will have a direct impact on the consequences of our actions, and it is our responsibility to choose humility and to live a life that reflects Christian values and teachings.