Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature of HumilityHumility, in the biblical context, is the quality of having a modest view of one's own importance. It is the recognition of one's position in relation to God and others, characterized by a lack of pride and self-exaltation. Humility is not merely an outward demeanor but an inward disposition that acknowledges God's sovereignty and one's dependence on Him. Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently emphasizes humility as a fundamental virtue necessary for the service of God. In Micah 6:8, the prophet declares, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" . This verse encapsulates the essence of humility as a requirement for a life pleasing to God. Jesus Christ as the Model of Humility Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of humility. Philippians 2:5-8 describes His humility: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross" . Christ's willingness to forsake His divine privileges and submit to the will of the Father exemplifies the depth of humility required in God's service. Humility in the Life of Believers Believers are called to emulate Christ's humility. James 4:10 instructs, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you" . This call to humility is not only a command but also a promise of divine exaltation. The Apostle Peter echoes this sentiment in 1 Peter 5:5-6: "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you" . Humility as a Prerequisite for Service Humility is essential for effective service in God's kingdom. It aligns the believer's heart with God's purposes and opens the way for His guidance and empowerment. In Matthew 23:11-12, Jesus teaches, "The greatest among you shall be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted" . This principle underscores the paradox of the kingdom of God, where true greatness is found in servitude and self-abasement. Humility and Dependence on God A humble heart is one that recognizes its need for God. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" . Humility involves trusting God's wisdom over one's own and acknowledging His authority in every aspect of life. Humility in Interpersonal Relationships Humility also governs how believers interact with others. Philippians 2:3-4 exhorts, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others" . This attitude fosters unity and love within the body of Christ, reflecting the selfless nature of Christ Himself. Conclusion Humility is indispensable in the life of a believer, serving as the foundation for a genuine relationship with God and others. It is through humility that believers align themselves with God's will, receive His grace, and effectively serve in His kingdom. Torrey's Topical Textbook Micah 6:8He has showed you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Military Service of St. Martin. Why an External Guide is Necessary in the Beginning. ... Thankful Service. Balak's Inquiries Relative to the Service of God, and Balaam's ... Three Necessary "Rations" The Conclusion Sets Forth what Appears to be Our Lord's Principal ... Of Monastic Vows. In Internal Contemplative Ways a Guide is Necessary, and Why? 2... The Knowledge that God Is, Combined with the Knowledge that He is ... Relation ii. To one of Her Confessors, from the House of Dona ... Resources What does the Bible say about egotism / egoism? What is an egoist / egotist? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the cause of church splits? How can healing occur after a church split? | GotQuestions.org What does “blessed are the meek” mean? | GotQuestions.org Humility: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Humility: A Characteristic of Saints Humility: Afflictions Intended to Produce Humility: Christ an Example of Humility: General Scriptures Concerning Humility: Leads to Riches, Honor, and Life Humility: Necessary to the Service of God Humility: Saints should be Clothed With Humility: Saints should Beware of False Humility: Saints should Put On Humility: Saints should Walk With Humility: Temporal Judgments Averted By Humility: The Who Have are Greatest in Christ's Kingdom Humility: The Who Have: Delivered by God Humility: The Who Have: Enjoy the Presence of God Humility: The Who Have: Exalted by God Humility: The Who Have: Heard by God Humility: The Who Have: Lifted up by God Humility: The Who Have: Receive More Grace Humility: The Who Have: Regarded by God Humility: The Who Have: Upheld by Honor The Humility of Christ: Declared by Himself The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Associating With the Despised The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Becoming a Servant The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Birth The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Death The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Entry Into Jerusalem The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Exposing Himself to Reproach and Contempt The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Obedience The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Partaking of Our Infirmities The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Poverty The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Refusing Honors The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Station in Life The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Subjection to his Parents The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Submitting to Ordinances The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Submitting to Sufferings The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Taking Our Nature The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Washing his Disciples' Feet The Humility of Christ: His Exaltation, the Result of The Humility of Christ: On Account of, he Was Despised The Humility of Christ: Saints should Imitate Related Terms |
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