Seeking to understand humility

Seeking to understand humility     

1 Peter 5: 5-7 “Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility towards one another, because, “God opposes the proud but give grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” NIV Bible

Extra Reading: 1 Peter 5:1-14

I have observed that many Christians struggle with humility. Some Christians-even leaders-start out humble, but after some success in ministry, they develop a subtle pride or self-confidence that contradicts Christian humility. Perhaps nothing is more deadly to a Christian than pride-and church leaders like pastors and evangelists are not exempt from this either. Not only does pride create barriers between Christian brothers, but it is also one of those things that the Lord hates (Proverbs 6:16-17). Jesus made it very clear to His followers that they should not be self-serving (Matthew 20:20-28; John 13:1-16). Many worldly leaders use intimidation or an attitude of superiority to get followers to submit. These things should never be characteristic of a Christian (Matthew 20:25, 28; 1 Peter 5:1-7). On the contrary, humility should be the mark of all Christians, with the leader setting the example as Christ did.

One may ask a question: ‘What is humility?’ What comes to your mind when you hear the word “humility”? Many people think of humility as lowliness. We sometimes describe the poorly dressed, poorly fed, poor man as “humble”. While God wants us to be humble, He does not want us to think of ourselves as poor beggars, or paupers. The Scripture tell us we are His children and joint heirs of His kingdom with Christ. To believe anything else is a great distortion of biblical truth. Humility is ‘not thinking of yourself more highly than you ought’ (Romans 12:3). The humble person does not draw attention to himself, nor does he do things to state his own importance. Purposefully taking the lowest place seems wrong to the world-and maybe even to some of us. But it is the path to righteousness and the way that Christians, especially leaders, display the Gospel to those around them. But it is in this place the humble will find grace (Luke 14:10).

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, I surrender my heart to you. Purge it of pride. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen!

Rev. Samuel N. Modise