Humility is a core virtue in the Christian faith and a powerful reflection of Christ’s character. Throughout His life on earth, Jesus modelled humility, showing us that greatness in God’s kingdom is found not in power or prestige but in serving others. In this guide, we explore the biblical principles of humility, learning from Jesus’ life how to walk humbly with God and others.
What is Humility?
Humility is the posture of recognizing our complete dependence on God and valuing others above ourselves. It’s not thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less. The Bible consistently teaches the importance of humility, reminding us that God honours those who humble themselves before Him:
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” (James 4:10)
True humility acknowledges our need for God’s grace and recognizes that any strength, wisdom, or success we have comes from Him alone.
Why is Humility Important?
- God Exalts the Humble
God promises to exalt those who humble themselves before Him. Jesus teaches us that in God’s kingdom, the way up is down:
“Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4)
The more we humble ourselves, the more God is able to use us for His glory. In contrast, pride separates us from God, as the Bible warns:
“Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18)
- Humility Reflects Christ’s Character
Jesus, the Son of God, is the ultimate example of humility. Though He was divine, He chose to humble Himself and take on the form of a servant:
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.” (Philippians 2:5-7)
Christ’s humility is the model for our lives. He washed His disciples’ feet, healed the sick, and ultimately gave His life as a ransom for many. If the King of Kings humbled Himself to serve, we too are called to follow His example.
- Humility Builds Relationships
Humility is essential for healthy, Christ-centered relationships. It allows us to admit when we’re wrong, seek forgiveness, and extend grace to others. Paul encourages us to be humble in our interactions with one another:
“With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:2)
When we approach others with humility, we foster unity and peace, building stronger relationships grounded in love and respect.
How to Cultivate Humility
- Serve Others
One of the most practical ways to cultivate humility is by serving others. Jesus demonstrated this during the Last Supper when He washed His disciples’ feet, taking on the role of a servant:
“If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)
When we serve, we follow Jesus’ example, putting others’ needs before our own. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, volunteering, or simply helping someone in need, serving others helps us develop a heart of humility.
- Acknowledge Your Dependence on God
Humility begins with recognizing that we are nothing without God. Every blessing, talent, and success we have comes from Him, not from our own efforts. The psalmist reminds us of our need for God’s help:
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.” (Psalm 28:7)
When we acknowledge our dependence on God, we position ourselves to receive His grace and guidance in all things.
- Put Others First
Humility means valuing others above ourselves, as Paul instructs:
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” (Philippians 2:3)
This doesn’t mean thinking less of ourselves, but rather recognizing the worth and dignity of others and seeking their good. It could be as simple as listening to someone in need, offering encouragement, or putting their needs before your own in a situation.
- Be Teachable
A humble heart is always willing to learn and grow. Pride resists correction, but humility embraces it, knowing that God often uses others to shape and refine us. The Bible emphasizes the importance of being teachable:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
Being teachable means allowing God to use His Word, life’s experiences, and the counsel of others to mold us into His image.
Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Humility
Throughout His life, Jesus embodied the very essence of humility. From His birth in a humble stable to His death on the cross, every step of His earthly journey was marked by selflessness and service to others. One of the most profound examples of Jesus’ humility is found in His washing of the disciples’ feet during the Last Supper. This act of servanthood symbolized His entire ministry:
“If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (John 13:14)
Even as He approached the cross, Jesus demonstrated ultimate humility by submitting to the will of the Father:
“And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.” (Matthew 26:39)
Jesus’ willingness to humble Himself, even unto death, is the highest expression of love and servanthood. As followers of Christ, we are called to follow His example and serve others with the same humility.
The Rewards of Humility
- God’s Grace and Favor
The Bible teaches that God gives grace to the humble:
“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” (James 4:6)
Humility opens the door to God’s abundant grace in our lives. When we humble ourselves before Him, He pours out His favour and blessings upon us.
- Promotion in God’s Kingdom
God honours those who walk in humility. Jesus taught that those who humble themselves will be exalted:
“And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12)
In God’s kingdom, true greatness is found in serving others. As we humble ourselves, God lifts us up in due time, using us for His glory and purposes.
- Peace and Contentment
Humility brings a deep sense of peace and contentment, as it allows us to rest in God’s sovereignty and trust in His plan. When we are humble, we let go of the need to prove ourselves or seek recognition, finding contentment in knowing that God sees and values us.
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” (Matthew 11:29)
A Prayer for Humility
Heavenly Father, we humbly bow,
Seeking Your guidance here and now.
Teach us to walk in Christ’s own way,
In humble love, each passing day.
Help us to serve with hearts sincere,
To honour You and draw You near.
Strip away pride, self-sufficiency,
And show our need for only Thee.
May Christ’s humility shine bright,
In work, in service, in the fight.
Strengthen us to place others first,
For in Your kingdom, greatness bursts.
In Jesus’ name, we humbly pray,
Guide us, Lord, in every way. Amen.
In Conclusion
Humility is the key to following Jesus’ example of servanthood. It’s a posture of the heart that acknowledges our dependence on God, values others above ourselves, and seeks to serve rather than be served. As we cultivate humility through serving, learning, and surrendering to God, we reflect the character of Christ and open ourselves to His grace and blessings.
May we follow Jesus’ example of humility and servanthood, walking humbly with God and others in all that we do.
