THE COST OF HUMILITY

Philippians 2:3-4, we read: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

James 4:6 “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

In today's world, humility is a quality that is sometimes underrated, yet its significance cannot be understated. According to what the Bible teaches, humility is the secret to real success and pleasure and is necessary for forging lasting bonds with other people. This article will examine biblical teachings on humility and how they might be used in real-world situations.

The Bible's teachings are centered on the idea of the cost of humility.

The verse above shows us that humility is placing others' needs ahead of our own aspirations and wants.

It demands us to put others before ourselves and serve them without looking out for our own interests or acclaim.

Jesus Christ's life and teachings serve as an excellent example of humility.

Psalm 113:5-6, who is like the Lord our God, who is enthroned on high, who humbles Himself to behold The things that are in heaven and in the earth?  In fact, He still does today; otherwise, He wouldn’t bother listening to your prayers.

In Matthew 20:28, Jesus says, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Jesus, who is the ultimate example of humility, lived a life of service to others and demonstrated that true greatness comes not from power or wealth, but from serving others with humility and love.

In order to be humble, we must be aware of our shortcomings and be willing to learn from others.

In James 4:6, we read, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." This verse reminds us that when we are humble, we are more receptive to God's wisdom and guidance and that it is only through humility that we can truly grow and develop as individuals.

Building successful connections with others requires humility as well. When we treat others with respect and humility, we develop healthy relationships by fostering an atmosphere of mutual trust.

In Proverbs 15:33, we read, "Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honor." This verse teaches us that when we humble ourselves before God and others, we are more likely to be respected and honored by those around us.

So how can we apply the principles of humility found in the Bible to our daily lives?

1. Reflect on and become aware of yourself. Be honest with yourself about your strengths and faults as you reflect on your own thoughts and behaviors.

Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." 

2. Serve others without seeking reward or profit for yourself. Seek for ways to serve your community and assist others, and do it without expecting anything in return.

1 Peter 5:5, we read, "All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.' 

3. Keep an open mind and a modest heart as you listen to others. Be open to picking up knowledge from individuals around you, even if they have opposing beliefs or viewpoints. And fix your eyes on Jesus to help you with others 

Hebrews 12:2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the Cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Treat everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their status or position.

 Remember that everyone is created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect

Because it demands us to set aside our own interests and aspirations for the sake of others, humility is not always an easy virtue to follow. However, humility has significant benefits both here and in the afterlife.

 In Proverbs 22:4, we read, "Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life." This passage serves as a reminder that when we live humbly, we are blessed with God's richest benefits as well as the respect and admiration of others.

 Success in companies and civilizations is characterized by humility, which is not only a personal trait.

In 1 Peter 5:5, we read, "All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'" This verse teaches us that when we work together with humility and respect for one another, we are more likely to succeed and achieve our goals.

Humility might seem to be a weakness in today's society when success is often determined by one's level of riches and influence. The Bible teaches, however, that genuine success and satisfaction come from helping others with humility and love rather than from financial goods or position. As we make every effort to live humbly, let us remember the words of Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Moreover, the Bible also teaches us that humility is the key to true wisdom. Proverbs 11:2, states, "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." This verse reminds us that true wisdom comes not from being proud and arrogant, but from being humble and open-minded. When we approach life with humility, we are more willing to learn from others, admit our mistakes, and seek guidance from God.

Living with humility also allows us to experience the grace and mercy of God. James 4:6, states, "But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'"

The Holy Spirit is an essential part of the Christian faith and plays a crucial role in helping us to live a life of humility. The Holy Spirit is often referred to as the Comforter, the Advocate, and the Spirit of Truth, and is believed to be the very presence of God living within us.

John 14:26, Jesus told his disciples, “The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you”

One of the ways in which the Holy Spirit helps us to cultivate humility is by guiding us toward the truth.

In John 16:13, Jesus said, "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come."

The Holy Spirit helps us to discern what is true and what is false, which is essential in developing a humble attitude. When we acknowledge that we don't have all the answers, we are more open to seeking the truth and learning from others.

1.   The Holy Spirit also helps us to recognize our own weaknesses and faults. In Romans 8:26, states, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." When we are humble, we are able to admit our weaknesses and seek help from others. The Holy Spirit helps us to recognize when we need assistance and gives us the strength to ask for it.

2.   The Holy Spirit empowers us to serve others with humility and love. In Galatians 5:22-23, states, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law." When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we are able to demonstrate these qualities in our interactions with others. We are more patient, kind, and compassionate, which is essential in developing meaningful relationships and serving others with humility.

3.   The Holy Spirit plays a critical role in helping us to cultivate humility in our daily lives. By guiding us toward the truth, helping us to recognize our own weaknesses, and empowering us to serve others with love and kindness, 

“These are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except for their own spirit within them? In the same way, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 2:10-11).

4.   The Holy Spirit helps us to live a life that is pleasing to God and beneficial to those around us. May we all seek the guidance and presence of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives as we strive to live with humility and love.

John 16:13-15

“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you”

Being born-again is the first step

If you are not born again, the Holy Spirit cannot assist you in living a life of humility.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV), he asks, “Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So, glorify God in your body.”

John 3 verse 3 And Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

Romans 10 verse 9 "If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

John 3 verse 35 "The one who believes in the Son has eternal life, but the one who refuses to believe in the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him." (John 3:36)

If you are ready to receive Jesus today and to work in humility so as to enjoy the grace

James 4:6 “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

SAY THIS PRAYER AFTER ME

Jesus, I firmly believe that you are the Son of God and that you sacrificed your life on the cross in order to save me from sin, death, and separation from the Father. I make the decision right now to repent of my crimes, my egotism, and everything else in my life that displeases you. I pick you, Jesus. Jesus, I entrust myself to you. I ask you to come into my life as my Savior and Lord, and I accept your pardon. I pray in Jesus' name for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who will guide me to all truth. I now ask for the Holy Spirit to fill me. Come, Jesus, and fill up my heart. Fill me with your life and love, and guide me toward being the kind of person you, Jesus, who is truly loving. Lord, restore me. Live inside of me. Love flowing from me. My status as a slave has been changed to that of a child of God, I announce and decree. I was not left out; I was chosen. God has not given me a spirit of fear but one that is full of power, love, and clear judgment. Thank you. I offer my prayer in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen. 

Praise to Jesus, you are now a born-again believer. Please find the nearest Bible-living church and continue to experience God's love.

THANK YOU AND REMAIN EVER BLESSED. JESUS IS LORD FOREVER. AMEN