Studies

Humility

Humility is the hallmark of a man whom God can use. It is often assumed, in the world, that humility means being quiet, passive, soft, weak, a "push-over", apathetic and without convictions. This is simply a warped understanding of true humility. Jesus, who embodied humility, was a man of passion, purpose and deep convictions. He embraced his task, confronted his opponents and drove resolutely and fearlessly towards his goal. Jesus was certainly not wimpy !

Humility, more than anything, is having a sober view of oneself while being confident and secure. It is having a genuine and deep respect for others and their opinions. It is being in touch with your weaknesses and hence sensing the need for outside help in your life. A humble person can neither be put down nor exalted; he can neither be humiliated nor honoured: he remains the same person under all circumstances because his self-worth is not tied to people's opinions but rather to the cross of Jesus Christ.

• Prov 8:13 God HATES pride and arrogance.
• Prov 13:10 Pride simply breeds quarrels. Prov 18:12 Before his DOWNFALL a mans heart is proud, but humility comes
  BEFORE honour.
• Psalms 36:1-2 The proud flatter themselves so much they are unable to DETECT
  or HATE their own sin.
• Isaiah 5:21 Woe to him who is wise in his OWN eyes !
• 2Chron 26:16-23 King Uzziah's pride is seen in:
  1. He became disobedient to God.
  2. He didn't listen to his friends.
  3. He got angry when they confronted him.
  4. God humbled him with leprosy and he died a recluse.
• Phil 2:2-4 In TRUE HUMILITY consider others better than yourself.
• Eph 4:2 Be COMPLETLY HUMBLE.

Practical Challenges:

• When in conflict situations respect the other persons views.
• Don't be critical of others - assume you're wrong until proven right.
• See your need for other people in your life and root out all independance.
• Develop an aggresive learner's spirit.
• Feel your need for God and be earnest about having great quiet-times each day.
• Demolish all insecurities. Humble people don't have an 'image' to uphold and therefore are not insecure when a situation threatens to expose their weaknesses.