HUMBLE

But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, but gives GRACE to the HUMBLE” – James 4:6

Although Titus 2:11-12 affirms that the Grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, it is pertinent to note that only the HUMBLE receive it. Grace comes through Humility: “God…gives grace to the humble” (Jam.4:6b). “The Grace for Salvation comes to the person who realizes that he or she is a sinner, and therefore humbles him or herself to repent and believe on the finished work of Jesus Christ on the Cross at Calvary. Following being saved from sin, the Grace to Serve is received as a person recognizes his or her human frailty and insufficiency, and humbly comes to the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Heb. 4:16). Furthermore, at times of weaknesses, perplexities, troubles, and trials, God releases His grace to the humble, which imparts peace, strength, and stability.

There is also the Grace for Greatness! Humility is the pathway to Grace, which is in turn the Platform for Greatness. Humility is a mark of greatness. True greatness is evidenced by humility, not pride. This was powerfully demonstrated and taught by our Lord Jesus Christ, who told His ambitious disciples: “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mt.20:26-28). When God Himself walked on earth as a Man, He washed feet, embraced children, and willingly gave His Life to deliver us from the self-centered tyranny of sin! His Model gives credence to His mandate.

1 Peter 5:5-6 also admonishes: “Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” Being able to set aside selfish ambition and genuinely seek the good of others is an attitude that pleases God. Such was the reaction of John the Baptist when the multitudes left him and began following Jesus. He said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (Jh.3:30). True greatness does not lie with those who arrogantly strive for worldly fame and acclaim; it lies instead with those who choose to offer humble service. It is in your willingness to do little things for others, that you’ll do great things for the Lord. When you forget yourself, you’ll do things others will remember!

It’s easy to forget that we are the packaging and God’s work is the treasure: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels” (2Cor.4:7a). When we start seeking affirmation and praise from men, we compete with the brilliance of the divine treasure in us. It must always be about Christ, not about us. It’s what’s inside that counts! The less obvious we are, the more brilliant He becomes. Humility accentuates the value of grace, as we come to realize that the abundance, successes, privileges, and positions that God has given to us are means to help us encourage others in their time of need. Humility toward God makes us accommodating and gentle toward others who are struggling. May we be blessed with a servant’s heart in all we say and do; and learn to place the needs of others above what we desire to pursue, in Jesus name. Beloved, how fulfilled are you to see others elevated above yourself when it is for the common good? This is the true test of humility, grace, and greatness!