Lead Scriptures: James 4:10 | 1 Peter 5:5 | Colossians 3:12 | Proverbs 11:2
Introduction:
What is Humility?
Humility is defined as submission, obedience and dependence on God. It is freedom from pride or arrogance.
It is being liberated from the consciousness of self. (The spirit of me, myself and I). Humility involves avoiding the mindset of superiority and recognising that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses.
Why do we need to be humble?
Someone once said, “Humility is the framework within which all virtue lives.” Said another way, humility is like a fence around a garden that provides protection for other virtues, like kindness, compassion, gentleness, and patience, to grow. Without the protection of humility, our pursuit of Godly character becomes an act of performance that always directs the focus back on us. Romans 12:9-21.
However, in our attempt to “clothe ourselves with humility,” we can sometimes fall into the trap of false humility – which is really just pride in disguise.
A humble person encourages individuals to acknowledge their dependence on God, recognise their own limitations and submit to God’s will. Let’s read Ephesians 4:2 | Colossians 4:12
To walk worthy of our calling in Christ, we are to demonstrate an attitude of humility towards God and one another. Philippians 2:5-8
God wants us to serve Him humbly and faithfully regardless of our position in the body of Christ. 1 Peter 5:5.
To be assured of eternal rewards, we should demonstrate true humility and concerns for others. Zephaniah 2:3 |Galatians 5:13
Conclusion:
When we are humble, our minds are redirected away from self-centred pursuits and towards God and the needs and concerns of others.
Finally, let’s see humility as a guiding principle in our lives, seeking to serve others with love, compassion and grace and finding our ultimate purpose in bringing glory to God through the way we love others.
May God Almighty clothe us all with the garment of humility. Amen.
Discussion:
- Describe humility in your own words. Romans 12:3 |James 4:10 | Proverbs 22:4 | Colossians 3:12 | Micah 6:8
- As Christians, we should be characterised by humility, not pride and arrogance. Discuss. Proverbs 6:16-19 |Proverbs 15:33 | 2 Chronicles 7:14 | Colossians 3:12 | Ephesians 4:2
- Why is it often difficult to maintain humility in our walk with Christ. Ephesians 4:1-3
- Why are we so prone to pride, and why is it at times so difficult to respond with humility?
- How do we distinguish between having a good self-image and being prideful? b. Is it difficult to be very rich & wealthy and not be arrogant or prideful. What do you think? Justify your answer.
Prayer
