The story has been told of a man who was seen as so humble, he was awarded a humble button. But then it was taken away for wearing it.
The reality is that one who is really humble will not be spending time thinking about humility, but will simply live with humility. However, as has been said, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” [Though the quote has been attributed to C.S. Lewis, it has been noted as surfacing much later.]
We each have significance! We each have value! Still, the “each” must be remembered lest we begin to think too much of ourselves. Especially in the church — the body of Christ (Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:27) — we must guard against thinking our place and our role is more important than others. (i.e. Romans 12:3; Philippians 2:3-4) [note: It is interesting that as I was writing this focus, an article popped up online titled, “Recovering the lost virtue of humility for the common good.”] We must live mindful of how all is to be done to glorify Christ who is the head of His body, the church (Colossians 1:18), as we interact with one another and work together.
Peter urged those to whom he wrote. . .
“(5) 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.” (6) Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,” (1 Peter 5:5-6 ESV)
It is not about a “humble button”, but about being clothed in the essence of humility. Therefore, in humbleness, let us exercise humility in all things. In this way God will be glorified and at the proper time He will exalt us! That will always be better than exalting ourselves! May we surrender to His Will for the common good of the Lord’s Body and the Divine purposes of God!
Have a great day LIVING CLOTHED IN HUMILITY!
Carl
