Practicing humility, as emphasized in the Bible, can indeed be challenging for many reasons. Understanding this difficulty requires a deep dive into the nature of humility, the human condition, and the cultural context in which we live. The Bible provides numerous teachings on humility, and examining these teachings can help us grasp why embodying this virtue is often a struggle.
Humility, as described in the Bible, is not merely a low view of oneself but rather an accurate understanding of one’s position in relation to God and others. It involves recognizing our limitations, our dependence on God, and valuing others above ourselves. Philippians 2:3-4 instructs, "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." This high calling to consider others more significant than ourselves is countercultural and counterintuitive, which contributes significantly to the challenge of practicing humility.
One primary reason humility is challenging is the inherent nature of human pride. Since the fall of Adam and Eve, pride has been a fundamental aspect of the human condition. The desire to elevate oneself, to be recognized, and to assert one's own importance is deeply ingrained in human nature. This pride often manifests in various forms such as arrogance, self-righteousness, and an excessive focus on personal achievements. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." Despite this warning, the allure of pride remains strong, making humility a difficult virtue to cultivate.
Additionally, the cultural context in which we live often exacerbates this struggle. Modern society frequently values self-promotion, individualism, and personal success. Social media platforms, for instance, encourage individuals to showcase their lives, achievements, and opinions, often leading to a culture of comparison and competition. In such an environment, humility can be perceived as weakness or lack of confidence, making it even more challenging to practice. The pressure to conform to societal norms and the fear of being overlooked or undervalued can deter individuals from embracing humility.
Moreover, the practice of humility requires a significant amount of self-awareness and self-discipline. It involves a conscious effort to put aside one’s ego and to serve others selflessly. This is not a one-time act but a continuous process of self-examination and growth. Romans 12:3 advises, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." This call to sober judgment requires ongoing reflection and a willingness to confront and correct one’s prideful tendencies.
Another reason humility is challenging is the misunderstanding of what it truly entails. Some people equate humility with low self-esteem or self-deprecation. However, true biblical humility is not about diminishing oneself but about recognizing one's worth in the context of God’s grace and the value of others. It is about understanding that every good thing we have is a gift from God and that we are called to use these gifts to serve others. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." Recognizing that our talents, abilities, and achievements are gifts from God helps us maintain a humble attitude.
The example of Jesus Christ provides the ultimate model of humility. Philippians 2:5-8 describes how Jesus, though being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage. Instead, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant and becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross. Jesus’ life and sacrifice exemplify the essence of humility: a willingness to serve others and to submit to God’s will, even at great personal cost. Following this example can be daunting, but it is the standard to which Christians are called.
Furthermore, the practice of humility is often met with external challenges. In a world that rewards assertiveness and self-promotion, those who practice humility may sometimes be overlooked or taken advantage of. This can lead to feelings of frustration or discouragement. However, the Bible assures us that God values and rewards humility. James 4:10 encourages, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." Trusting in God’s promise and seeking His approval rather than human recognition can help us persevere in practicing humility.
The process of cultivating humility also involves learning to accept correction and criticism graciously. Proverbs 12:1 states, "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid." Receiving feedback and acknowledging our mistakes requires a humble heart. It involves setting aside our pride and being open to growth and improvement. This can be particularly challenging in a culture that often equates admitting faults with weakness.
In addition, the spiritual battle against pride is a significant aspect of the Christian life. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." The enemy seeks to exploit our pride and to lead us away from humility. Engaging in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, and studying Scripture can help us resist these temptations and cultivate a humble heart.
Lastly, community plays a vital role in fostering humility. Being part of a faith community provides opportunities to serve others, to be held accountable, and to learn from one another. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Engaging in community life helps us practice humility in tangible ways and reminds us that we are part of a larger body of Christ.
In conclusion, practicing humility as mentioned in the Bible is challenging due to the inherent nature of human pride, cultural influences, the need for self-awareness and discipline, misunderstandings about humility, external challenges, the spiritual battle against pride, and the importance of community. However, by looking to the example of Jesus Christ, relying on God’s grace, and engaging in spiritual disciplines and community life, we can grow in humility and live out this vital Christian virtue.
