Topical Bible: Humility: Temporal Judgments Averted By

◄ Humility: Temporal Judgments Averted By ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Humility, a profound virtue in the biblical narrative, is often depicted as a means by which individuals and nations can avert temporal judgments. The Bible provides numerous accounts where humility before God leads to mercy and the withholding of impending judgment.

Old Testament Examples

1. King Ahab: Despite being one of Israel's most wicked kings, Ahab's account illustrates the power of humility in averting judgment. After Elijah prophesied the destruction of Ahab's house due to his idolatry and injustice, Ahab responded with genuine humility. 1 Kings 21:27-29 records, "When Ahab heard these words, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and fasted. He lay in sackcloth and walked around meekly. Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, 'Have you seen how Ahab has humbled himself before Me? Because he has humbled himself before Me, I will not bring the calamity in his days; but in the days of his son I will bring the calamity upon his house.'"

2. King Hezekiah: Another example is King Hezekiah, who faced a dire threat from the Assyrian army. In 2 Kings 19, Hezekiah humbly sought the Lord's help, spreading the threatening letter from the Assyrians before God in the temple. His humility and prayer led to divine intervention, as recorded in 2 Kings 19:34-35 , where God promises, "I will defend this city and save it for My sake and for the sake of My servant David."

3. The People of Nineveh: The city of Nineveh, as recounted in the book of Jonah, was destined for destruction due to its wickedness. However, upon hearing Jonah's warning, the king and the people of Nineveh demonstrated profound humility by fasting, wearing sackcloth, and repenting of their sins. Jonah 3:10 states, "When God saw their actions—that they had turned from their evil ways—He relented from the disaster He had threatened to bring upon them."

New Testament Insights

1. The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector: Jesus' teachings further emphasize humility as a means to receive God's mercy. In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus contrasts the self-righteous Pharisee with the humble tax collector. The tax collector's humble plea, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner!" (Luke 18:13), results in his justification before God, illustrating that humility leads to divine favor.

2. James' Exhortation: The New Testament epistles also highlight the importance of humility. James 4:6 declares, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This passage underscores the principle that humility attracts God's grace, which can avert judgment and bring blessings.

Theological Reflections

Humility is not merely an outward act but a heart posture that acknowledges one's dependence on God. It is a recognition of human frailty and the need for divine intervention. Throughout Scripture, God consistently responds to humility with mercy, often averting the temporal judgments that would otherwise befall individuals or communities. This biblical theme serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of humility in the life of believers and the broader community.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
Torrey's Topical Textbook