Subscription Lists

What does it mean to be humble? Soft-spoken, considerate, understanding – or having no personal will, lacking ambition, and therefore weak and easily ignored? Contrary to popular opinion, being humble encompasses a strong sense of one’s own capabilities as well as understanding how best to use them; promoting modesty, and an unpretentious attitude. It has nothing to do with lack of knowledge or an inability to express ourselves and everything to do with clearly understanding who we are and how to combine our abilities with those of others to most effectively impact our world.

Jesus Christ set the ultimate example of living life with assertive humbleness. The question being: Did that make him more or less effective dealing with contrary people? Some individuals will always perceive humility in any form as weakness, while others see it as the ultimate expression of strength; understanding the character traits of love, peace, patience, kindness and self-control as agents of personal change – purifying, inspiring and enhancing our ability to serve. (Galatians 5:22,23) In fact, Paul inserted the character trait of power in his list of Christian attributes he encouraged Timothy to develop. (2 Timothy 1:7) In doing so, he made a point of saying that we are not called to timidity – which some equate with meekness and humility – which actually defines power as strength of character and purpose; love as a source of understanding, patience and – when needed – submission; made possible by self-control and discipline. Jesus himself assuring the weak, tired and down-trodden of peace, understanding and solace in his presence. (Matthew 11:29)

Humility can best be realized when we place our lives in God’s hands, allowing him to use us as he sees fit; dealing honestly and forthrightly with everyone we come in contact with. Jesus exemplifying this in his relationship with his Father (John 5:19-30) as well as with everyone else he dealt with. Whether they were politically connected or socially disenfranchised, wealthy or poor, weak or strong, religious or irreligious. He didn’t give ground to those who didn’t deserve it, challenging them with the truth and the need for change (Matthew 23), even as he sympathized with those who became entangled in life’s uncertain “opportunities”; refusing to condemn even as he challenged them to follow him and become something more. (John 8:1-11)

We often think of the God of the Old Testament exclusively in terms of vengeance and retribution (See Deuteronomy 32:35 & Romans 12:19), transferring similar attributes to his Son as well. (Hebrews 10:26-31) And while there can be aspects of judgment to Christ’s ministry, he specifically says, “…I did not come to judge the world, but to save it.” John 12:47,48 (See also Acts 17:30,31 & Romans 2:16) “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal live. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” So, “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already…” John 3:16-18 Jesus’ over-riding purpose in coming to us was to reveal the truth and reality of God, being the “exact representation of his being,…” Hebrews 1:3, and to rescue us from our own ignorance, mis-understanding and rebellion; healing the sick of mind, body and soul (Matthew 9:12), seeking out those who have lost their way (Luke 19:14), and giving meaning, joy and energy to those who respond to his generous offer of life in the here-and-now as well as the here-after. (John 10:10)

Love was the driving force behind God’s plan and Jesus’ actions, and must be the focal point of our ministry as Christians – even as we assure people that, not in opposition to God’s love but because if it – “…we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” 2 Corinthians 15:10 (See also Romans 14:12, Romans 2:6-8 & Matthew 16:27) When forced to, he can and will assume the duties of the righteous warrior King and Judge of Revelation 19:11-16, but would much prefer to be the redeemer friend of John 15:9-15. He expects no less of us. “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:25-28 (See also John 10:17,18) Billy Graham getting to the crux of the issue when he says, “Sin is the second most powerful force in the universe, for it sent Jesus to the cross. Only one force is greater, the love of God.”1

Jesus admitted that his coming would bring discord, division and judgment to the world, (Luke 12:49 & Matthew 10:32-39), some experiencing the “refining” fire of salvation (1 Corinthians 3:15); but he never allows for personal retribution in frustration and anger on our part. (Luke 9:54) He expects us to be humble followers of his Way (Psalm 25:9); showing us by example how best to fulfill our destinies in him. (Philippians 2:5-11) The expectation being that we will, “Be completely humble and gentle;…”, and in doing so “…live (lives) worthy of the calling you have received.” Ephesians 4:1,2

The humbleness of Jesus was evident throughout his earthly life, sleeping in a borrowed crib – a manger – as his first bed; while throughout the rest of his life he seldom had a permanent place to call home. His first visitors were lowly shepherds, although wise men did finally arrive to acknowledge his birth and the possibilities of his life. He was a manual laborer – as a carpenter – before leaving the fleeting comfort of his parent’s home for the highways and byways of the country-side; preaching, teaching and ministering to those equally poor by birth and employment even as he challenged the well-to-do and arrogant – offering salvation and redemption to all. He finished his life hanging on a criminal’s cross and buried in a tomb likewise not his own.

His most poignant example of humility may have been when he washed his disciples feet prior to his last supper with them; “…show(ing) them the full extent of his love.” This was specifically a servant’s job, cleansing and refreshing a guest before seating them for dinner. It was also a very pertinent service when you realize that people of Jesus’ day walked virtually everywhere they went; either barefoot or in sandals that offered very little protection from the dust of the road, animal waste in the fields and garbage littering the city streets. Jesus took it upon himself to perform this generous task for his friends and followers, asking “Do you understand what I have done for you?” Further explaining to them the proper relationship of Master and servant, message and messenger; challenging them with, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” John 13:1-16

1Quote from Passion With A Purpose, Thomas Nelson Pub.

"Chip Shots from the Ruff of Life" from Tom Kelley

The Biggest Mistake