A Humble Confession.

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less”. C.S. Lewis.

Paul in the book of Philippians helps us to explore what true biblical humility looks like. Paul’s prayer for the people at Philippi is that their “love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ” (1:9). This prayer is something that I pray God will do in my own journey through understanding his design of humility in my life and in the lives of those who I have influence.

“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death – even death on a cross!” (2:8). Here is the ultimate definition of being humility, an act that was not of selfish ambition but a heroic moment in time that put all of us ahead of himself. This act of love and compassion demonstrates for us the role we have to fulfill as we seek to be like Him, our lives should be lived humbly not expecting but having faith in His promises. In a world filled with selfish and proud people we get trapped by the influences of self-interest and often put our own needs before the needs of others. Our instruction from scripture calls us “to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit” (2:3).

I will level with you right now, I fail in this area, and the harsh reality of the truth is I will continue to do it. I am thankful that I live for a forgiving God, when I come before Him humbly asking for forgiveness He has promised to wipe the slate clean and let me start over again. This is not an excuse to continue doing what I do but an opportunity to grow in faith and understanding so I one day will be pure and blameless in his presence. Over the next few weeks as I reflect on scripture it is my hope and prayer that God will teach me to live a life in humility worthy of Him.