No one is naturally humble. Our human nature is permeated with pride passed down from Adam; only the indwelling Christ can develop true humility in us. Humility will manifest itself in kindness toward the unkind, long-suffering toward those who annoy us, and love toward our enemies. How inconsistent to think we have 'humility given ourselves to Christ' if we react harshly to anyone. The Lord leads us to see the end result of pride and false humility: Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be of an humble spirit with lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud (Prov. 16:18-19). It is natural to think of ourselves as humble, at least more humble than others. But humility, or a lack of it, is apparent by our attitude when someone irritates us. Personal views often create ill will. If our replies are expressed unkindly, either in our words or actions or in our thoughts, then our 'humility' is not real; it is merely a pious mask. Knowing the destructive power of pride, let us look upon the people who seem difficult to love as those chosen by God to provide us the opportunity to rid ourselves of self-righteousness, and to express Christlike humility and the love of God. Humble people will feel no jealousy or envy when they are ignored while others are praised. God reminds us: Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory (pride, empty conceit); but lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves (Phil.2:3). The Christlike nature of a Christian enables him not to respond with a sharp, unfriendly attitude when differences of opinion exist. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of law estate. Be not wise in your own conceits (opinions (Rom.12:16). To be Christlike is to be like Jesus and consider all people equally, regardless of their race, position, abilities, or wealth, for God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34).
Posted on: Sat, 07 Sep 2013 14:52:56 +0000
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