The Correct Perception of Humility

Humility is seen in the capacity to do what needs to be done. Humility includes not thinking oneself greater than others, but the evidence of humility is a willingness to step forward instead of hanging back. It is seen in giving a hand, rather than waiting for others to lead the way most of the time.

Often it is pride, not humility, that causes us not to speak up, not to ask a question, not to volunteer or express one's opinions. Pride inhibits boldness.

In a group setting, I once asked for a volunteer to come forward and play the piano for a song we would sing. No one moved. Finally, someone coaxed a young woman to go forward.

She played superbly! I assume she had believed that humility required her kind of reluctance. But that's not humility—it was actually a form of pride that protected her from looking pushy or bold. Humility would have offered to help right away.

Jesus was humble. But he did not hang back. He did what had to be done; He gave what he had to give.

He showed us that obedience and helpfulness are the true marks of humility.

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