Topical Encyclopedia The character of humility is a defining trait of the saints, as evidenced throughout the Scriptures. Humility is not merely an outward demeanor but a profound inner disposition that acknowledges one's dependence on God and recognizes the worth and dignity of others. It is a virtue that is both commanded and commended in the Bible, serving as a foundation for a life that is pleasing to God.Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently highlights humility as a key characteristic of those who follow God. In the Old Testament, humility is often associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This verse underscores the blessings that accompany a humble heart, linking it directly to reverence for God. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies humility in His life and teachings. Philippians 2:5-8 provides a profound insight into the humility of Christ: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This passage reveals the depth of Christ's humility, as He willingly set aside His divine privileges to serve humanity and fulfill the Father's will. Commanded Humility Believers are called to emulate the humility of Christ. In James 4:10, the exhortation is clear: "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." This command is not merely a suggestion but an imperative for those who seek to live in accordance with God's will. Humility is portrayed as a prerequisite for receiving God's grace, as James 4:6 reminds us, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" Humility in Relationships Humility also plays a crucial role in interpersonal relationships among the saints. Ephesians 4:2 encourages believers to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." This instruction highlights the importance of humility in fostering unity and love within the body of Christ. By valuing others above oneself, as instructed in Philippians 2:3, believers can maintain harmony and reflect the character of Christ in their interactions. Examples of Humility The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who demonstrated humility. Moses is described as "a very humble man, more so than any man on the face of the earth" (Numbers 12:3). Despite his leadership role, Moses consistently relied on God's guidance and interceded for the people of Israel with a humble heart. King David, despite his royal status, exhibited humility in his relationship with God. In Psalm 51, David's prayer of repentance reveals his contrite spirit and acknowledgment of his need for God's mercy: "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise" (Psalm 51:17). The Reward of Humility The Scriptures affirm that humility leads to exaltation by God. In 1 Peter 5:6, believers are encouraged to "humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you." This promise assures the saints that God honors those who walk humbly before Him, lifting them up in His perfect timing. In summary, humility is an essential characteristic of the saints, deeply rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. It is a virtue that fosters a right relationship with God and others, bringing about divine favor and blessing. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 34:2My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. Nave's Topical Index 1 Peter 5:5 Library The Character and Supports of Widows Indeed. Saints and Faithful How Saints May Help the Devil Fenelon -- the Saints Converse with God A Homily for Humble Folks Essential Character of the Work of Jesus. Perseverance of Saints. Pride and Humility Holy Song from Happy Saints John Calvin. His Life and Character. Resources What is virtue ethics? | GotQuestions.orgDoes God change His mind? | GotQuestions.org Is God perfect? | GotQuestions.org Character: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Character of Saints: Attentive to Christ's Voice Character of Saints: Blameless and Harmless Character of Saints: Fearing God Character of Saints: Following Christ Character of Saints: Guileless Character of Saints: Hungering After Righteousness Character of Saints: Hungering for Righteousness Character of Saints: Led by the Spirit Character of Saints: Loathing Themselves Character of Saints: New Creatures Character of Saints: Poor in Spirit Character of Saints: Pure in Heart Character of Saints: Righteous Character of Saints: Steadfast Character of Saints: Taught by God Character of Saints: Taught of God Character of Saints: Undefiled Character of Saints: Zealous of Good Works Character of the Wicked: Abominable Character of the Wicked: Alienated from God Character of the Wicked: Blasphemous Character of the Wicked: Blinded Character of the Wicked: Boastful Character of the Wicked: Conspiring Against God's People Character of the Wicked: Conspiring Against Saints Character of the Wicked: Corrupt Character of the Wicked: Covetous Character of the Wicked: Deceitful Character of the Wicked: Delighting in the Iniquity of Others Character of the Wicked: Despising Saints Character of the Wicked: Despising the Works of the Faithful Character of the Wicked: Destructive Character of the Wicked: Disobedient Character of the Wicked: Enticing to Evil Character of the Wicked: Envious Character of the Wicked: Evildoers Character of the Wicked: Fearful Character of the Wicked: Fierce Character of the Wicked: Foolish Character of the Wicked: Forgetting God Character of the Wicked: Fraudulent Character of the Wicked: Froward Character of the Wicked: Glorying in Their Shame Character of the Wicked: Hard-Hearted Character of the Wicked: Hating the Light Character of the Wicked: Heady and High-Minded Character of the Wicked: Hostile to God Character of the Wicked: Hypocritical Character of the Wicked: Ignorant of God Character of the Wicked: Impudent Character of the Wicked: Incontinent Character of the Wicked: Infidel Character of the Wicked: Loathsome Character of the Wicked: Lovers of Pleasure More than of God Character of the Wicked: Lovers of Pleasure, not of God Character of the Wicked: Lying Character of the Wicked: Mischievous Character of the Wicked: Murderous Character of the Wicked: Persecuting Character of the Wicked: Perverse Character of the Wicked: Prayerless Character of the Wicked: Proud Character of the Wicked: Rebellious Character of the Wicked: Rejoicing in the Affliction of Saints Character of the Wicked: Reprobate Character of the Wicked: Selfish Character of the Wicked: Sensual Character of the Wicked: Sold Under Sin Character of the Wicked: Stiff-Hearted Character of the Wicked: Stiff-Necked Character of the Wicked: Uncircumcised in Heart Character of the Wicked: Unclean Character of the Wicked: Ungodly Character of the Wicked: Unholy Character of the Wicked: Unjust Character of the Wicked: Unmerciful Character of the Wicked: Unprofitable Character of the Wicked: Unruly Character of the Wicked: Unthankful Character of the Wicked: Untoward Character of the Wicked: Unwise Character: Defamation of, Punished Character: Firmness: Joseph in Resisting Potiphar's Wife Character: Instability: Israelites Character: Instability: Pharaoh Character: Instability: Reuben Character: Instability: Solomon Character: Revealed in Countenance Physiognomy: (External Aspect)): Character Revealed In Related Terms |
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