Topical Encyclopedia Humility is a fundamental virtue that is consistently emphasized throughout the Scriptures as essential for the life of a believer. It is the quality of having a modest view of one's own importance and is often associated with meekness, lowliness, and submission to God. The Bible presents humility not merely as an attitude but as a way of life that saints are called to "put on" as they grow in their faith and walk with Christ.Biblical Foundation The call to humility is rooted in the character of God and the example of Jesus Christ. In Philippians 2:5-8 , believers are exhorted to have the same mindset as Christ, who, "being in very nature 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." This passage highlights the ultimate act of humility demonstrated by Jesus, serving as the model for all believers. Exhortations to Humility The New Testament contains numerous exhortations for believers to embrace humility. In Colossians 3:12 , Paul instructs the saints: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Here, humility is listed among the virtues that believers are to "put on," indicating that it is an essential aspect of the Christian character. Similarly, in 1 Peter 5:5-6 , Peter writes, "Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, 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." This passage underscores the communal aspect of humility, urging believers to practice it in their relationships with one another and before God. The Blessings of Humility The Scriptures also highlight the blessings and favor that accompany a humble spirit. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This verse suggests that humility, coupled with reverence for God, leads to divine blessings. Furthermore, James 4:10 promises, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This assurance of exaltation is a recurring theme, indicating that God honors those who lower themselves in humility. Humility in Practice Practically, humility involves recognizing one's dependence on God, valuing others above oneself, and being teachable. Romans 12:3 advises, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, according to the measure of faith God has given you." This verse calls believers to a realistic self-assessment, grounded in faith and grace. Moreover, humility is expressed through service and love for others. In John 13:14-15 , Jesus exemplifies this by washing His disciples' feet, saying, "So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you." This act of service is a powerful demonstration of humility in action. Conclusion While the Bible does not provide a formal conclusion on the topic of humility, it is clear that humility is a virtue that saints are called to embody as they follow Christ. Through the example of Jesus, the exhortations of the apostles, and the promises of Scripture, believers are encouraged to cultivate a humble spirit, trusting that God will honor and exalt them in His perfect timing. Torrey's Topical Textbook Colossians 3:12Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Twenty-First Article they Absolutely Condemn, Because we do ... Letter xvii. --Remorse and Rebellion. Humility. All Saints' Day The Temple and Its Dedication Fenelon -- the Saints Converse with God Good Friday The Loftiness of Humility The Holy Spirit's Intercession De Profundis. Resources What was the significance of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about conceit / being conceited? | GotQuestions.org Who was John the Apostle in the Bible? | 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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