You’re probably familiar with the idea of being humble, but what does it really mean to have humility according to the Bible? In today’s selfie-obsessed culture, humility can seem old-fashioned or even weak.
But biblical humility has nothing to do with putting yourself down or minimizing your gifts.
True humility comes from recognizing that everything good in your life comes from God.
It’s acknowledging that on your own, you would be nothing.
When you embrace humility, you stop chasing after selfish goals and start living to serve God and others.
Get ready to find out what the Bible really teaches about humility – it’s so much more than just being polite or quiet.
As you’ll discover, humility transforms every part of life and leads to true joy and purpose.
Let’s dive into the biblical meaning of humility together!
Defining Humility According to the Bible
Putting others before yourself
To be humble is to put the needs and interests of others before your own.
As Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.
Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” This means not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less, and looking out for the good of others.
Recognizing your dependence on God
Humility also means recognizing that everything you have and everything you are comes from God.
As James 4:10 says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” We are utterly dependent on God for life and breath and everything else.
Recognizing your smallness before God and your need for Him leads to humility.
Not judging others
When you are humble, you are less likely to judge and criticize others.
As Romans 14:13 says, “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another.
Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Judging others arrogantly leads to discord, while humility leads to gentleness and unity.
Accepting trials and hardships
Finally, humility means accepting difficulties, hardships, and trials with a patient and trusting spirit.
As James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” With humility comes the ability to accept difficulties with grace.
Overall, humility is a foundational Christian virtue that involves putting others first, recognizing your dependence on God, avoiding judgmentalism, and patiently enduring hardships.
While humility is challenging, it leads to healthy, God-honoring relationships and spiritual maturity.
Examples of Humility in the Bible
One of the best examples of humility in the Bible is Moses.
Even though God chose him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses remained humble.
When God called to him from the burning bush, Moses said, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11).
Despite his important calling, Moses recognized his own unworthiness and limitations.
Another example is King David.
Although David was the greatest king of Israel, he displayed humility before God.
When the prophet Nathan confronted David about his sin with Bathsheba, David repented and prayed, “Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight” (Psalm 51:4).
David understood that his sin was ultimately against God.
The Virtue of Meekness
Jesus Himself is the perfect embodiment of humility.
He said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29).
Jesus lived a life of meekness, always putting the needs of others before His own.
He came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).
Though Jesus was God in the flesh, He humbled Himself by leaving heaven, taking on human form, and dying on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8).
The Son of God gave up His throne in glory to sacrifice His life for our salvation.
There is no greater example of humility than that of our Savior.
True Greatness
Jesus taught that true greatness is found through humility and service.
When His disciples argued about who was the greatest, Jesus said: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:43-45).
The path to greatness in God’s kingdom is paved with humility.
Why Does the Bible Emphasize Humility?
The Bible places great importance on humility because God values a humble heart.
When you’re humble, you recognize your own weaknesses and limitations, and you acknowledge your dependence on God.
You understand that everything you have comes from God’s grace.
Humility Honors God
A humble person gives glory to God instead of claiming it for themselves.
They recognize that any talents, skills, or accomplishments they have are gifts from God.
As 1 Peter 5:6 says, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” When you humble yourself before God, He will honor you in His timing.
Humility Enables Wisdom
Only a humble person is willing to accept instruction and correction.
A proud, arrogant person thinks they already know everything and won’t listen to advice or feedback.
But Proverbs 11:2 says, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” If you want to grow in wisdom and knowledge, you must first humble yourself.
Humility Leads to Blessing
God blesses and rewards those who are humble before Him.
Many verses connect humility and blessing, such as James 4:10 which says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” When you recognize your dependence on God and submit to His will, He will honor you and shower you with His favor and blessings.
In summary, humility is a virtue God greatly values.
It enables you to honor God, gain wisdom, and receive blessing.
Though being humble is challenging, it leads to intimacy with God and spiritual growth.
Make it your aim to humble yourself daily before the Lord.
How to Practice Biblical Humility in Daily Life
To live with biblical humility, focus on serving others rather than seeking status or power over them.
Look for small, practical ways to put others first in your daily life.
Serve Your Family and Friends
At home, look for ways to lighten the load for your family and roommates.
Offer to do an extra chore, like cleaning up after dinner or mowing the lawn.
Give compliments and express appreciation for the things they do.
Spend time listening to them and showing you value them.
Help Your Coworkers and Employees
At work, volunteer for tasks that support your coworkers and make their jobs easier.
Take an interest in their lives and priorities.
Help mentor others who are newer in their roles.
If you lead others, delegate responsibilities and empower them to use their gifts.
Make their success and growth a priority.
Assist Strangers in Need
Look for ways to assist strangers you encounter in your daily routine.
Hold open a door for someone, offer to return a shopping cart, or simply smile and make eye contact.
Pay for the order of the person behind you at the drive-thru.
Donate to local charities and food banks.
While these acts seem small, they make a difference in cultivating a spirit of humility.
Accept Correction Graciously
When others point out your mistakes or limitations, accept their feedback with humility.
Say “thank you” and look for the ways their input can help you grow.
Admit when you’re wrong and ask follow up questions to make sure you understand their perspective.
A humble person acknowledges there is always more to learn.
Practicing biblical humility in small, everyday acts of service helps make it a habit and way of life.
While it often means putting the needs of others first in an act of sacrifice, it leads to healthy, mutually uplifting relationships and communities.
With humility, we recognize every person as equally deserving of dignity and respect.
Developing a Humble Heart Through Scripture
The Bible is filled with wisdom on developing humility.
As followers of Christ, we are called to have the same attitude as Jesus, who humbled himself and took on the form of a servant (Philippians 2:5-8).
Scripture teaches us how to cultivate a humble heart.
Study God’s Word
As the psalmist says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).
Spending time in Scripture helps us gain a proper perspective of ourselves in light of God’s holiness and grace.
When we understand how far we fall short, yet how fully we are loved, it fosters humility.
Make studying the Bible a habit and ask God to open your eyes to hard truths about your own heart.
Serve Others
Jesus said, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all” (Mark 10:43-44).
One of the best ways to grow in humility is to serve others with a willing heart.
Look for opportunities to meet the needs of people in your life, community, and church.
As you put the needs of others before your own, it helps you recognize that you are not the center of the universe.
Accept Trials
No one enjoys facing difficulties, but the Bible says we should “consider it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2).
Hard times have a way of knocking us off our high horse and reminding us of our weaknesses and need for God.
When trials come, look for ways God may be using them to refine your character and humble your spirit.
Ask God to help you persevere with grace and patience.
Developing humility is a lifelong process, but with God’s help and by following his guidance, we can foster a humble heart that brings glory to him.
Keep your eyes on Jesus, the perfect example of humility, and continue moving in that direction.
