Topical Encyclopedia Humility is a fundamental virtue in the Christian life, deeply rooted in the teachings of Scripture. It is the quality of having a modest view of one's own importance and is often associated with meekness, lowliness, and a willingness to submit to God's will. The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of humility for believers, urging them to walk in this virtue as they grow in their faith and relationship with God.Biblical Foundation The call to humility is woven throughout the Bible, beginning with the Old Testament. In Micah 6:8, the prophet succinctly summarizes what God requires of His people: "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 highlights humility as a key component of a life pleasing to God. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of humility. Philippians 2:5-8 describes how Christ, though being in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped. Instead, He "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 underscores the depth of Christ's humility and His willingness to serve others, even at great personal cost. Exhortations to Humility The apostles frequently exhort believers to cultivate humility in their lives. In Ephesians 4:1-2, Paul urges the church to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love" . Here, humility is presented as essential to maintaining unity and love within the Christian community. Similarly, in 1 Peter 5:5-6, Peter instructs the younger members of the church to submit to their elders and for all to "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 highlights the reciprocal nature of humility and God's promise to exalt those who humble themselves. The Role of Humility in the Christian Life Humility is not merely an abstract concept but a practical virtue that influences every aspect of a believer's life. It involves recognizing one's dependence on God, acknowledging one's limitations, and valuing others above oneself. In Romans 12:3, Paul 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 instruction encourages believers to maintain a balanced and realistic view of themselves, rooted in faith and grace. Moreover, humility is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. James 4:10 states, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you" . This promise assures believers that God honors and lifts up those who approach Him with a humble heart. Conclusion While humility is often countercultural, it is a defining characteristic of a life transformed by the Gospel. As believers strive to walk in humility, they reflect the character of Christ and fulfill God's call to live in harmony with others, serving as a testament to His grace and love. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 4:1,2I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that you walk worthy of the vocation with which you are called, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Treats of the Insecurity of Life in this Exile, However High we ... All Saints' Day Pride and Humility All Saints' Day The Covenant of Grace "Who Walk not after the Flesh, but after the Spirit. " The Perseverance of the Saints Evidences of Regeneration. Epistle Lxviii. To Eusebius of Thessalonica. The Daily Walk with Others (iii. ). 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 |
    |