“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” – James 4:6 NIV

Pride makes us self-centered and leads us to conclude that we deserve all we can see, touch, or imagine.  It creates greedy appetites for far more than we need.  We can be released from our self-centered desires by humbling ourselves before God and realizing that we need him more than anything else.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10 NIV

Humbling ourselves means recognizing that our worth comes from God alone.  To be humble involves working in Gods power according to his guidance and with our own independent effort. As we do this God’s power will enable us to have the results that He intends for us to have.

But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Luke 14:10-11 NIV

How can we humble ourselves?  Some people try to give the appearance of humility in order to manipulate others.  Others think that humility means putting themselves down.  Truly humble people compare themselves only with Christ, realize their sinfulness, and understand their limitations.  On the other hand they also recognize their gifts and strengths and are willing to use them for as God directs them.  Humility is not degradation, it’s a realistic assessment and commitment to serve.

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. – Micah 6:8 NIV

People have tried all kinds of ways to please God but God has made his wishes clear.  He wants his people to be just, love kindness, and walk humbly with him. In your efforts to please God, examine these areas on a regular basis.

“He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.” – Proverbs 3:34 NIV

There will come a time in our lives where we will all need gods favor and grace.  What this verse is saying is to resist being a proud person and continue to walk in humility.  At any moment we could be in a situation where we are being oppressed and needs God’s favor, and humility is the key to receiving this favor.

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. – Proverbs 11:2 NIV

Pride says “Look what I did and look at me and all I’ve accomplished”  When you have that attitude and forget that its is Gods grace and favor that has caused you to get the results that you have, all God needs to do is step away but for a moment and allow failure to come.  Just enough to remind you to remain humble and acknowledge that it’s his grace and favor that causes you to succeed and not you alone.

He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way – Psalms 25:9 NIV

We are surrounded with all types of media and advertisements telling us what to buy, what to do or what we should think.  If you find yourself being pulled in several different directions, remember that God teaches the humble His ways. 

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.- Philippians 2:3-4 NIV

Selfishness can ruin a church. But a genuine humility can build it.  Being humble involves having a true perspective about ourselves.  It does not mean that we should put ourselves down.   We are to lay aside selfishness and treat others with respect and common courtesy. Also, when we consider others interest more important that our own then we are more link to Christ’s character.

Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor. – Proverbs 18:12 NIV

This is a warning that just before your heart starts to get proud, you need to stop, back up and remember that God is holding everything concerning you together.  When you do this you will remain in an attitude of humility towards God, acknowledging that it’s all him and not yourself.