What does the Bible say about being humble?
The biblical concept of humility centers on submission to God's will, most perfectly exemplified through Jesus Christ, who set aside his divine nature to become human and ultimately sacrifice himself on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8). This fundamental aspect of humility represents not merely a passive trait but an active choice to align with God's purposes, even in the face of hardship, as demonstrated when Jesus prayed, "Not My will, but Yours, be done" (Luke 22:42).
At its core, humility involves recognizing human limitations and our inherent tendency toward self-sufficiency and arrogance. Scripture teaches that we are "wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked" without God (Revelation 3:17), highlighting our complete dependence on Him. This understanding stands in stark contrast to worldly values, where greatness is achieved through self-exaltation. In God's kingdom, however, the last shall be first (Matthew 20:16), and true greatness is found in lowliness.
Humility serves as an essential prerequisite for authentic faith, requiring believers to set aside preconceived notions and embrace God's wisdom rather than relying on their own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6). Like children, who exemplify openness and trust, Christ's followers must approach God with genuine humility to receive His truth. This humility naturally leads to the confession of sin (1 John 1:9) and transformation through submission to divine authority.
In relationships with others, humility manifests through Christ-like love and service. Even when we love others faithfully, we must acknowledge that our love remains imperfect compared to Jesus' perfect love. This recognition should motivate us to continue loving, even when it's not reciprocated, and to "bless those who persecute you" (Romans 12:14) and "love your enemies" (Matthew 5:44). This counter-cultural approach reflects the distinct principles of God's kingdom.
The gospel message itself requires humility, as it declares Jesus as the victorious King who holds all authority. This truth directly challenges the world's message of self-determination and control. Through humility, we acknowledge that we are inheritors of grace, receiving God's mercy through Jesus Christ and that our righteousness comes through faith rather than adherence to the law (Romans 3:22). This fundamental virtue, therefore, encompasses recognizing our dependence on God, submitting to His authority, acknowledging our limitations, and reflecting Christ-like love and service toward others. It's not about self-deprecation but about embracing our true position before God and living in alignment with His kingdom's values.
Verses about humility:
Proverbs 11:2, "When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom."
Micah 6:8, "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
Philippians 2:3, "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves."
James 4:10, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you."
1 Peter 5:5-6, "Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for 'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.' Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you."
Matthew 23:12, "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."
